adminBOURNEMOUTH. – Cherries manager Scott Parker wants to sign four new defenders after guiding the Cherries back to the Premier League.
The ex-Fulham boss sealed promotion with a second-place finish in the Championship last season.
And he’s keen to bolster the back line as they bid to avoid an immediate return.
Parker wants to sign two central defenders and both a right and left-back to ensure that his side are ready for the Premier League once again.
Liverpool defender Nathaniel Phillips was a key part of the Bournemouth defence after joining on loan in January and there is interest in seeing him return on a permanent deal.
He made 17 Championship appearances for Parker’s side last season.
Young left-back Jordan Zemura impressed throughout the campaign while the south coast side can call on veteran Adam Smith, 31, on the other side.
Parker, however, still wants more cover on either flank and could be looking to upgrade on Smith.
It is not only at the back where the Cherries are looking to invest.
Forward Dominic Solanke bagged 29 goals last season but Parker is keen to bring in some cover and competition.
There is interest in Blackburn striker Ben Brereton Diaz to add to the forward line.
Barnsley striker Callum Styles – who faced England with Hungary last week – has also been linked.
While Brereton Diaz, who scored 22 Championship goals last season, is available for around £13m is a target, Bournemouth are not the only side interested and Parker is prioritising the back line.
Potential attacking signings have been told that the Cherries will make moves once they have addressed the defence, which is where the bulk of the budget will be spent. – The Sun
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter