UK Edition
Jermain Defoe returns to Bournemouth on free transfer
Jermain Defoe has confirmed his return to Bournemouth on a three-year contract that has been described by manager Eddie Howe as “a huge” moment for the club.
It follows the signing already this summer of goalkeeper Asmir Begovic from Chelsea and a club record £20 million deal for Nathan Ake, also from Chelsea, that should be confirmed in the coming days.
Defoe spent a season on loan at Bournemouth from West Ham United some 17 years ago in the second division and scored 19 goals in 31 appearances, including a run of 10 goals in consecutive league games that equalled a post-war record.
His career has since taken him to Tottenham, Portsmouth, Toronto and then Sunderland, where he has recaptured his England place after 15 goals in each of his two full Premier League seasons. He had a clause that would allow him to leave on a free transfer if Sunderland were relegated.
“It’s great to be back and I’m really looking forward to this challenge,” said Defoe.
“When the opportunity came about to return to AFC Bournemouth I just knew it was the right one. It was an easy decision, joining a top team with a top manager. It’s a great place to be. The Bournemouth fans know that every time I pull the shirt on I will give 100 per cent, and the one thing I can guarantee is goals.”
Defoe is now 34 and still targeting a place at the World Cup next year, with Howe particularly keen this summer to add experience to a squad that still has a strong nucleus of players who have helped establish the club in the Premier League.
Howe is five years older than Defoe and played with him when he was previously at the club as an on-loan teenager.
“This a huge moment for the football club and another step in the right direction,” said Howe.
“We want to bring players here who can have a big impact on our continued rise and we believe Jermain fits that as a natural, proven goal scorer. We have known him for a long time, since working with him as a young pro and playing with him. I have followed his career and am delighted to say he is going to be playing for AFC Bournemouth again.”