Dominic Solanke has signed for Bournemouth, leaving Liverpool behind for the south coast.
The Cherries have paid £19 million for the 21-year-old striker with add-ons totalling £25 million, therefore luring the young England international away from Crystal Palace, rumoured to be a loan target.
Dominic Solanke Joins Bournemouth in Permanent Deal
Some would argue £19 million is a high price to pay, but the youngster clearly preferred the long-term deal offered by Bournemouth.
Introducing… pic.twitter.com/um3KiMCz92
— AFC Bournemouth (@afcbournemouth) January 4, 2019
Solanke had joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Chelsea, where he spent three years, in 2017. This included a loan spell at Dutch side SBV Vitesse. However, he failed to make a significant breakthrough, with only 21 appearances, thus making the arrangement a risky one for the Cherries, but one which both player and club appear willing to take.
Speaking to the Bournemouth website, Solanke praised his new club and the reasons behind his decision:
”Over the past few years, they (Bournemouth) 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.”
Whilst the youngster enjoyed regular appearances for his country, he failed to establish himself firmly in the Premier League. With Liverpool currently flying high, it’s unlikely he would given many, if any, starts by Jurgen Klopp. He did, however, appear in the run-up to the Champions League final last season.
Will Solanke be a Cherry on Top?
It would seem, then, that his latest move may be his chance to flourish under the experienced command of Eddie Howe. After paying a hefty fee, Solanke will likely be given ample pitch time by Howe.
Howe said of the youngster: ”Dominic is technically gifted, very athletic. He also has the physical profile that will give us something different in our front line.”
Solanke said of his new boss: ”I spoke with the manager this morning. He is a really nice guy. From playing and watching the Premier League, I know the sort of manager he is.”
He went on to speak of his aims for his new role: ”Playing in the Premier League, every game is tough and together we can try to do as well as we can.”
Bournemouth face fellow south coast rivals Brighton in the FA Cup 3rd round at Dean Court on Saturday. Whether Solanke makes it to the side after just 24 hours remains to be seen.
Main Photo
