A source from Manchester City has now revealed the latest on the future of Newcastle United January transfer target Nathan Ake.

The Lowdown: Howe reunion?

Of course, Ake was a player that Eddie Howe has managed before while they were both at AFC Bournemouth, as the latter once complemented his 'outstanding attributes', so it is not a surprise to see that the St. James' Park faithful have been linked with a move for him.

According to a report from earlier in the month by 90min, Howe is ‘considering’ making some of his former players at the Cherries his ‘top transfer targets’ in the January transfer window, including Ake, who is among his ‘main targets’.

The Latest: No plans to sell

Speaking to Football Insider, a Sky Blues source has now revealed that the club are 'not planning' to listen to offers for Ake in the winter window, and will 'block' the Netherlands international from moving to the North East.

Pep Guardiola reportedly wants to keep his senior squad together for the second half of the season, and that would include keeping Ake at the Etihad Stadium.

The Verdict: Blow

It would certainly be a blow if the Tyneside outfit are not able to secure Ake's signature in January.

Yes, he has been somewhat of a bit-part player in the Premier League so far this term, but he has so much experience in the division, and Howe would know how to get the best out of him having worked with him before.

Nonetheless, he is a serial winner, having won the top-flight title no fewer than three times over the course of his footballing career so far, and that kind of winning mentality would be so useful for a club aiming to conjure up enough wins to escape relegation down to the Championship.

In other news, find out who NUFC's three worst players were against Arsenal here!