Eddie Howe revealed Nathan Ake is set to return to Chelsea after watching Bournemouth crash out of the FA Cup to League One club Millwall on Saturday.
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has hinted he could look to bring Ake back to Stamford Bridge, describing him as an "interesting option", and Howe accepted he might imminently lose the versatile 21-year-old, who joined Bournemouth on a season-long loan back in June.
Ake was not involved in Bournemouth's squad as they went down 3-0 at The Den, ensuring he remains eligible for the Cup if he does return to Chelsea.