Bournemouth are in pole position to sign Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe, sources close to the player have told ESPN FC.
Defoe seems certain to leave Sunderland after their relegation from the Premier League was confirmed by a weekend defeat to Bournemouth at the Stadium of Light.
The England international has scored 14 goals for the club this season and has a clause in his contract that means he can leave on a free transfer following relegation.
A number of clubs are monitoring him but Bournemouth, where he spent a loan spell in 2000, are ready to offer him a lucrative long-term contract.
Sources have told ESPN FC that Defoe is interested in a return to the south coast as Bournemouth prepare for their third season in the Premier League.