CRYSTAL Palace boss Roy Hodgson “is weighing up a January loan move” for Cherries striker Jermain Defoe, according to The Sun.

The publication this week claimed the Eagles “might look at the renowned poacher as a short-term option” with the former England manager “looking to boost his firepower”.

Defoe struck twice in a 2-2 draw when Cherries visited Selhurst Park 12 months ago.

His spectacular second – which scooped him the Premier League goal of the month award - was likened to Marco van Basten’s famous strike against the Soviet Union at Euro 88.

The 36-year-old is yet to get off the mark for the Dorset club this season and has played just 22 minutes in the top flight.

He has started all three Carabao Cup fixtures for Cherries and registered an assist for Junior Stanislas in the 2-1 fourth round win over Norwich.

The Sun also claim “a string of Championship clubs want Defoe, including Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United and Wigan”.

Signed by Cherries on a free transfer from Sunderland in June 2017, Defoe is seventh on the all-time list of Premier League goal scorers, with 162.

He has made 496 appearances at England’s elite level, with 33 assists.