CHERRIES have made a last-minute swoop to sign Max Aarons from Norwich City, the Daily Echo understands.

The right-back had been set for a medical at Championship outfit Leeds United before Cherries decided to make their move.

Aarons, an England under-21 international, is into the last year of his deal at Carrow Road.

This summer, Aarons made four appearances as England lifted the under-21 European Championship, not conceding a single goal throughout the tournament.

It is believed that Cherries will pay an initial £7million for the 23-year-old, potentially rising to £12million with potential add-ons.

Whilst Cherries had been looking for further depth at right-back this transfer window, their needs were made greater after Adam Smith suffered an injury in the final weeks of pre-season.

With Ryan Fredericks also sidelined, winger Jaidon Anthony lined up at right-back for the final pre-season friendly, a 2-0 win over FC Lorient.

It is not the first time this window Cherries have tempted a player to change their mind late on in a transfer, with Milos Kerkez opting to move to Dorset after nearing a switch to Champions League outfit Lazio.

Cherries start their Premier League campaign this weekend, when they welcome West Ham to Vitality Stadium on Saturday, August 12.