CHERRIES winger Max Gradel has been linked with a move to Premier League rivals Watford.

The Mirror claims the Hornets are “closing in on a surprise £3m deal” for the 29-year-old, who is currently on Africa Cup of Nations duty with Ivory Coast.

It is also suggested in the story that “the two clubs are in advanced negotiations about a switch to Vicarage Road”.

Gradel, who signed an improved four-year contract at Vitality Stadium in the summer, has also been linked with Burnley, West Ham, Marseille and Nantes.

He has been restricted this season to five appearances from the bench in the Premier League, the last of which came during Cherries’ 0-0 draw with Tottenham in October.

Gradel, a £7million signing from St Etienne in August 2015, also started both games in the League Cup, scoring in the 2-1 win at Morecambe in August.

He was sidelined for six months last season after sustaining a serious knee injury but returned to play a major role in helping the club preserve its Premier League status.

Asked at Friday’s press conference whether it was possible Gradel might leave during the January transfer window, boss Eddie 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."

Gradel came off the bench for Ivory Coast in their opening game of the Africa Cup of Nations against Togo in Gabon yesterday. He replaced Aston Villa’s Jonathan Kodija in the 81st minute of the 0-0 draw in Group C.