BOSS Eddie Howe has admitted Cherries will "assess the situation as the window develops" regarding winger Max Gradel.

The 29-year-old has not started a single Premier League game this season and has been linked with a string of clubs including Burnley, West Ham, Marseille and Nantes.

Currently away with Ivory Coast on African Cup of Nations duty, Gradel spent six months out with a serious knee injury last term.

Asked if it was possible that Gradel might leave during the January transfer window, Howe said: "With Max, we will assess the situation as the window develops.

"I think it's well-documented how highly I think of him as a player.

"He had a serious injury last season but he is improving his fitness and his game all the time since coming back.

"It's been difficult to get him games with the quality we have in those positions, so that's one we will wait and see on."

Quizzed further on speculation surrounding striker Lewis Grabban, Howe added: "In terms of outs, I'm not keen to see anyone leave.

"I love the squad I have. I think we have competition for places and strength in depth and we're going to need that as the season unfolds."