Manchester United and Tottenham are leading the chase for Bournemouth defender Nathan Ake, but Chelsea have the option to take him back to Stamford Bridge.

The Dutch defender has become an integral part of Bournemouth’s defence since arriving from Chelsea last summer, when he cost £20million.

Now the 23-year-old is high on the radar of a number of clubs, with both Spurs and United hugely impressed with him.

Former club Chelsea remain keen, and they also have a buy-back – set at £40million, meaning they can re-sign him for that some, but they also have a sell-on meaning they can profit on any deal.

Bournemouth are aware of interest, and are even anticipating interest in January.

Bookmakers believe that if he does leave, then a move back to Stamford Bridge is the most likely scenario with Ladbrokes making them 7/4 favourites ahead of Man United (2/1) and Tottenham (6/4).

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: “Ake’s been a standout player down on the south-coast so it’s no surprise to see him being linked with the division’s top clubs. But a buy-back clause rightly puts Chelsea at the head of the market in the race for his signature.”