BOSS Eddie Howe expects Lewis Grabban and Marc Wilson to seek permanent moves away from Cherries in the current transfer window.

Cherries last week published a full set of squad numbers but frontman Grabban and defender Wilson were not included on the list.

Neither player has featured in Howe's matchday squads for the opening two friendlies of pre-season against Estoril and Portsmouth.

And now the manager has revealed Grabban and Wilson – who have both been linked with relegated Sunderland – are likely to attempt to depart Vitality Stadium this summer.

Howe told the Daily Echo: “I think there is a good chance both players may look to leave the football club in this window.

“Obviously, I have to make some difficult choices and work with the players I feel are going to participate during our season. Unfortunately, I’m going to have to make some tough calls."

Grabban has made just four Premier League starts for Cherries since returning to the club from Norwich 18 months ago, his only goal to date of his second spell in Dorset coming in the 3-2 FA Cup defeat to Preston in September.

The £7million man made a loan switch to Reading at the end of the January transfer window and scored three goals as the Royals reached the Championship play-off final.

Wilson, the same age as Grabban at 29 years old, penned a two-year deal when he joined Cherries from Stoke a year ago.

In his third spell at the club following two stints on loan a decade ago, the Republic of Ireland international netted on his first appearance of last season, against Morecambe in the EFL Cup.

However, he made just two further cup outings before moving to West Brom on loan in January.

Wilson featured on four occasions in the top flight for the Baggies and in May, manager Tony Pulis hinted he would be interested in signing the adaptable defender this summer.

Meanwhile, Howe declared himself content with the workout his players had undergone in defeating League Two champions Portsmouth 2-1 in a friendly on Saturday.

Goals from Lys Mousset and Benik Afobe secured victory for the visitors at Fratton Park.

Asked if the game had been a worthwhile exercise, Howe said: “In terms of the fitness, of course, I think it was there.

“Certain players were pushed slightly more into 60 minutes, some we are still nursing back in and they did slightly less.

“I’m pleased overall and pleased to win. I do feel there is more to come and that we have more gears to go through."

Reflecting on the first appearances of goalkeeper Asmir Begovic and striker Jermain Defoe following their respective summer moves, Howe added: “I thought Asmir didn’t have a lot to do with his hands but he did very well with his feet, so that was a good sign for us.

“Jermain had a couple of chances, as he usually does, so we were pleased with his return."