CHERRIES are close to completing a deal to sign Fleetwood Town defender James Hill, the Daily Echo understands.

The England under-20 international has been linked with a host of clubs in recent weeks, including Southampton and Sheffield United.

But, following the departure of centre-back Steve Cook to Nottingham Forest yesterday, Cherries have made their move to quickly bolster their defensive ranks.

Bristol-born Hill, 19, has played a key role for the Cod Army in League One this season, featuring regularly under former Simon Grayson.

He has made 14 third-tier appearances, but not featured since November 2 due to injury, meaning he is yet to play for new boss Stephen Crainey.

That knee problem also saw him forced to withdraw from England under-21 duty, having received a first call-up towards the end of last year.

Having debuted as a 16-year-old in 2018 under Joey Barton, becoming Fleetwood's youngest ever first-team player, Hill has now made a total of 53 appearances for the Lancashire club.

He netted his first goal for Fleetwood in a 2-2 draw at Cambridge United in September.

The Daily Echo understands a fee of around £1million has been agreed for the teenager.

It is also understood a loan deal to bring Ethan Laird to Cherries from Manchester United is also close to completion.