AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of England international striker Jermain Defoe.
The 34-year-old arrives at Vitality Stadium from Sunderland on a free transfer, and has put pen to paper on a three-year deal.
Defoe spent time with the Cherries as a teenager, setting a club record of scoring in ten consecutive league games while on loan from West Ham United.
He has also played for Tottenham Hotspur, Portsmouth, Toronto FC and Sunderland during a distinguished career which has brought 57 England caps and 20 goals for his country to date.
“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.”
AFC Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said: “This a huge moment for the football club and another step in the right direction.
“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.”
AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake added: “As soon as we found out Jermain was available, we worked hard to make this transfer happen.
“Top class strikers are not easy to come by, so I am delighted that Jermain will be pulling on the AFC Bournemouth shirt once more.
“He is someone with huge experience at the highest level, he knows the club and we believe he can make a real impact in helping us continue building on our recent success.”
