CHERRIES are understood to be close to finalising a deal for Mohamed Coulibaly, a relatively-untried striker from Swiss giants Grasshoppers.

Coulibaly joined Eddie Howe’s squad during last week’s training camp in south Germany and Switzerland, lining up in Cherries’ 2-0 defeat by FC Zurich on Friday.

Born in Senegal, the 24-year-old, who also holds a French passport, is believed to have impressed Howe and his staff, with the Cherries boss keen to bring him to Dean Court on a permanent basis.

Coulibaly is understood to be available on a free transfer after making just a handful of appearances for Grasshoppers in the Swiss Super League last season.

The frontman, who can also operate on both flanks, came off the bench in five games as the 27-times champions finished runners-up to Basel to claim a Champions League qualifying berth.

He was snapped up by Switzerland’s most successful club after he had caught the eye during a spell with lower-league outfit SC Dornach in 2011.

Coulibaly made one start and four substitute appearances during his first season with Zurich-based Grasshoppers, although his game-time was limited by injury.

The pacy front-runner came through the ranks at French club FC Gueugnon and was handed his debut in 2008. He joined FC Saint-Louis Neuweg 12 months later before crossing the border to Dornach.

His signing would bring to three the number of new arrivals at Dean Court this summer, with Elliott Ward and Ian Harte added to the Cherries ranks last month.

Meanwhile, Daily Echo sources understand Cherries are close to reaching agreement with former Gillingham and Norwich striker Simeon Jackson.

Although boss Howe never comments publicly on potential targets, the 26-year-old Canadian international is believed to be high on his wish-list.

Jackson, who made 13 appearances for Norwich in the Premier League last season, is available on a free transfer following his release by the Canaries.

He featured alongside Ward as Norwich secured promotion to the top flight in 2012 and is also reportedly a target for a number of other Championship clubs.

However, having pondered a series of offers while on Gold Cup duty with Canada, Jackson is believed to be ready to commit himself to Cherries once he has returned to England.