CHERRIES defender Nathan Ake has become a shock target for Chelsea, according to The Sun.

The tabloid claims the Blues have a buy-back option of £40million on the Netherlands international, who is being “tracked by a number of Prem giants”.

According to the national newspaper, Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri “will look to bolster his back line with Gary Cahill set to depart and David Luiz’s contract up”.

Ake is reportedly being considered for a “summer switch” back to Stamford Bridge

He has started all 21 top-flight fixtures for Eddie Howe’s men this season.

The former Feyenoord youngster has missed only eight minutes of Premier League football this campaign.

Den Haag-born Ake signed for Cherries for a then club record £20million from Chelsea in June 2017.

He played 17 times for the Blues at senior level, including in the Champions’ League and Europa League.

Capped 10 times at senior international level, Ake last season completed a clean sweep of player-of-the-year awards, which included the prestigious Daily Echo/Micky Cave supporters’ player-of-the-year gong.

Reports earlier in the campaign linked Manchester United, Manchester City and Tottenham to the impressive centre-half.

Ake is expected to line up for the Dorset club when they take on Everton at Goodison Park today (2.15pm).