According to reports, Chelsea decided against signing Manchester City new boy Nathan Ake because of doubts about the Dutchman’s lack of physicality.
The 25-year-old star completed a £41 million move to the Etihad on Wednesday, penning a five-year deal with City.
Pep Guardiola’s side moved quickly to land Ake following Bournemouth’s relegation and they bid £41 million as a clause in Ake’s contract allowed former side Chelsea to re-sign him for a fee of £40m.
The Blues had a 72-hour window to match the Citizens’ bid but declined against the option of doing so due to the west Londoners’ doubts about the Dutchman’s height and strength, The Athletic reports.
Frank Lampard is keen to bring in a centre-back this term after his side conceded 54 goals in the top-flight but the club were not convinced that Nathan was the right choice as they feel Ake is not strong enough in the air.