EDDIE Howe says he would "love" to sign Jack Wilshere on a permanent deal – but the Cherries boss insists he will wait until the end of the campaign before thinking about keeping hold of his loan star.

Wilshere has started 17 Premier League matches for Cherries since joining from Arsenal on the final day of the summer transfer window.

His contract with parent club Arsenal expires in 2018 and a number of heavyweight clubs – Manchester City, AC Milan and Roma, included – are credited with holding an interest in the 25-year-old.

Asked if he would like to sign Wilshere on a long-term basis, Howe said: "We would love that to happen. I can’t rate Jack any higher as a footballer or a person, and how he’s come into the team and what he has delivered for us.

"But there has been no discussion with Arsenal. As I see it Jack is on loan for the season, then we’ll look at it – and Jack will look at it – from that point."

Wilshere is yet to score for Cherries and has registered two assists during five months at Vitality Stadium.

"I look deeper than that in terms of what he’s doing and what he’s delivering for the team," added Howe.

"This season we’ve improved a lot of aspects of our play because of him.

"He’s been very professional, he’s rolled up his sleeves and he’s willing to fight for the team."