Bournemouth close to Jermain Defoe signing

Bournemouth are reportedly close to securing the services of veteran striker Jermain Defoe on a free transfer. The England international will be out of contract this summer due to a relegation release clause in his Sunderland deal.

Defoe, 34, had provided 15 goals for the Black Cats in the recently concluded league campaign but this was not sufficient to prevent their Premier League relegation.

The veteran marksman recently received his recall to the Three Lions after a four-year wait, and he will look to maintain his place in the setup by linking up with another top-flight club.

According to Sky Sports News, the striker has begun negotiations with Eddie Howe's side as he looks to prolong his Premier League stay for a couple of years.

Defoe is likely to command a wage package of around £100,000-a-week at Dean Court owing to the fact that the Cherries do not have to pay a transfer fee for his move.

The former Spurs man has good memories on the South Coast after having netted 19 goals during a loan stint at Bournemouth - from West Ham United during the 1999/2000 season.