AFC Bournemouth have significantly bolstered their youthful squad by signing vastly-experienced defender Gary Cahill.
Cahill, who has made more than 620 appearances during a distinguished career, has put pen to paper on a one-year deal at Vitality Stadium.
He joins the Cherries on a free transfer having left Crystal Palace following the expiry of his contract at the end of last season.
The 35-year-old boasts an impressive CV which includes a Champions League winner’s medal, two Premier League titles and 61 caps for England.
Cahill is 42nd on the list of all-time leading appearance-makers in the Premier League having played 394 games in the top flight for Aston Villa, Bolton Wanderers, Chelsea and Crystal Palace.
During eight years at Stamford Bridge, he helped Chelsea win the Champions League for the first time in their history and collected two Europa League winner’s medals as well as four major domestic honours.
Cahill, who also captained England, becomes Scott Parker’s fourth signing, following the arrivals of Emiliano Marcondes, Orjan Nyland and loanee Leif Davis.
AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake told afcb.co.uk: “We are delighted to have secured the services of one of the finest defenders to have played in the Premier League.
“Gary has a wealth of experience and knowledge which can only benefit our squad, especially the younger members who have been performing so admirably for us this season.
“A player of his stature and standing in the game was always going to be coveted once he had left Crystal Palace following the expiry of his contract in the summer.
“The fact he has chosen to sign for us speaks volumes for our club, our new management team under Scott Parker and the ambition we have going forward.
“We believe this signing is a real coup and a huge statement of intent from the club and everybody at Vitality Stadium is looking forward immensely to working with Gary.”
