CHERRIES have opened talks with Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe over a potential move to Dean Court, according to Sky Sports.

The England international has a clause in his contract with the north east team that enables him to leave on a free transfer following their relegation from the Premier League.

Defoe scored 15 goals for Sunderland during a disastrous campaign for the club, which led to boss David Moyes quitting his post today.

The 34-year-old's prolific form saw him recalled by England earlier this season, more than three years after his previous international appearance.

Defoe has acknowledged that playing outside the top flight next season would harm his chances of being part of the Three Lions' squad for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

He scored 19 goals in 31 appearances for Cherries during a loan spell in the 2000/01 campaign, when he played alongside current boss Eddie Howe and assistant Jason Tindall.