Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke joins Bournemouth in £19million deal
Solanke agrees permanent move to Bournemouth after seeing loan switch to Crystal Palace collapse earlier this week
BOURNEMOUTH have completed the signing of Liverpool striker Dominic Solanke in a £19million deal.
The Cherries moved quickly to snap up the 21-year-old striker after his proposed transfer to Crystal Palace fell through earlier this week.
SunSport revealed earlier today how Eddie Howe had targeted the England under-21 international who was surplus to requirements at Anfield.
Solanke made the move to Merseyside 18 months ago having grown frustrated at the lack of first team opportunities at Chelsea.
He had gained a reputation as a bright prospect at Stamford Bridge but like other academy products was given few opportunities to prove himself.
In his first season at Anfield Solanke was involved in Jurgen Klopp's first team squad and made 27 appearances in all competitions.
That included game time in the Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City and semi-final at Roma.
But he failed to kick on this season through a combination of form and fitness and Klopp decided he no longer had a future at Liverpool.
Palace looked likely to be his next destination but that move fell through this week amid fears he was not fit and ready to go straight into their side.
That gave Bournemouth all the invitation they needed to make their move - and a deal was done quickly between the two clubs.
It is believed the fee could rise to £25m with add-ons, and Liverpool insisted on inserting a sell-on clause in the deal.
Solanke said: “I think the club is going somewhere. Over the past few years, they have been really good in the Premier League and had some good positional finishes as well. I think it’s a good club to be at, especially for someone of my age.
“I spoke with the manager this morning [Friday]. He is a really nice guy. From playing and watching the Premier League, I know the sort of manager he is. I was excited to meet him and am really looking forward to working with him and seeing what he’s about.
“My main target is to score goals and, being a striker, hopefully I can get a few for the team and help the team get wins. Playing in the Premier League, every game is tough and together we can try to do as well as we can.”
Bournemouth manager, Eddie Howe, said: “Dominic is technically gifted, very athletic and has the physical profile that will give us something different in our front line.
“He has done very well for England at various age groups, has a huge amount of potential and I’m really excited about working with him.”