EDDIE Howe dismissed reported interest in Cherries star Nathan Ake and insisted it was not the time to discuss transfer speculation.

During the recent international break, the Daily Star claimed Ake was being “tracked” by several of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Tottenham, Manchester United, Chelsea and Napoli.

Asked about the transfer rumours regarding the centre-back, Howe told the Daily Echo: “We are in the middle of the season and it is not the time, especially with players who are very settled and in good form, for me to necessarily talk about transfer speculation regarding them.”

The 24-year-old joined Cherries from Stamford Bridge for £20million in June 2017 after a successful loan spell.

Discussing the Netherlands star's form this season, Howe said: "He has been very consistent again.

"Nathan is the type of player who suits the consistency of playing and he has got better and better as the season has gone on.

“He always shows a great attitude, is very level-headed and I am very pleased with him.”