CHERRIES transfer target Sylvain Distin is understood to have been forced to delay putting the finishing touches to his move to Dean Court.

Distin was today expected to undergo a medical before penning a one-year deal with the Dorset club having agreed personal terms earlier this week.

The French defender had been due to link up with the rest of Eddie Howe’s squad for the start of pre-season training tomorrow.

However, despite being a free agent following his release by Everton at the end of last season, Distin’s contract at Goodison Park officially ends at midnight on June 30.

And Everton officials are believed to have been reluctant to allow Distin to train with Cherries until after his deal with the Dorset club kicks in on Wednesday, July 1.

Distin, who has property in Canford Cliffs, bought during his time at Portsmouth, played more than 200 games in six years at Everton and also has Premier League experience with Pompey, Manchester City and Newcastle.