EDDIE Howe admitted it had been a "difficult" summer in the transfer market for Cherries.

David Brooks became the Dorset club's first signing of the window two days ago and, speaking generally, boss Howe revealed recruitment had been a tricky process.

In June, Cherries were reportedly planning to bid around £10million for Brentford's Chris Mepham but were told the Bees would not contemplate selling the 20-year-old.

Speaking to Sky, Howe said: "This transfer window has been difficult. Transfer fees, as always, tend to go northwards, with the World Cup year and the window closing earlier.

"From the manager's perspective, you want to get the players in as early as you can to work with them and build your team for pre-season.

"This year is perhaps the first season where we haven't been able to do that. Certainly, between now and the start of the season we will be active and looking to do business."

Howe appeared to rule out a swoop for former Cherries loan star Jack Wilshere, who is a free agent following his departure from Arsenal.

"I've said many times that we love Jack but financially it might be a difficult one for us," he added.