Bournemouth are expected to seal a deal for former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere, according to Kris Temple of BBC Radio Solent.
The England international enjoyed a previous loan spell with the Cherries in the 2016/17 season. He has been without a club since leaving West Ham United last summer.
Former Arsenal Midfielder Jack Wilshere Expected to Return to Bournemouth
Initial Short-Term Deal
According to reports, the 29-year-old will initially be returning to the Vitality Stadium on a short-term deal until the end of the season. Wilshere has been training with the Cherries since December in a bid to show his fitness.
As a result of his efforts in training, the former Arsenal midfielder has been offered a contract. Despite the step down to Championship football, it will hopefully offer Wilshere the chance for regular football.
Speaking on Solent Sport about the prospect of Wilshere returning, Bournemouth boss Jason Tindall said: “We’re delighted to get it agreed. There’s no doubting Jack’s quality. In his own words, he feels he’s got “unfinished business” here. He was a huge part of our most successful time.”
Wilshere’s career and struggle with injuries has been well documented. He was regularly sidelined with injuries during his time at The Emirates, while he made just 18 appearances in two years during his time with West Ham.
It was at Bournemouth where he arguably got his most regular spell on the pitch. The 29-year-old made 27 appearances in all competitions, but his season was once again cut short by injury.
As a result, the Cherries will be hoping that he can prove his quality on a regular basis. There is no doubt that Wilshere has the quality to be better than Championship level, but regular injuries hampered his career and he now needs to get back on track.
Another Midfielder Incoming?
According to Gregg Evans of The Athletic, Bournemouth have also shown interest in Aston Villa midfielder Conor Hourihane.
The midfielder has fallen down the pecking order at Villa Park and is likely to leave on loan this month. As a result, several clubs, including Bournemouth, have enquired about his availability.
Hourihane played a vital part in the Villa side who helped the club return to the Premier League in the 2018/19 season. He scored eight goals and registered 11 assists as Dean Smith’s side won promotion via the play-offs.
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