Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth have once again retained their place in the Premier League. At times Bournemouth looked capable of beating any Premier League team, with the likes of Ryan Fraser, Callum Wilson and all clicking at the right times.
On other occasions, the Cherries’ displays were pretty flat and unimpressive. Bournemouth finished 12th in the league, scoring 45 times and conceding a whopping 61 goals. They need reinforcements at both ends of the field if they want to become consistent and progress in the league.
Josh King was not able to reflect on the form he showed in the 2016/17 campaign, with the striker managing just eight league goals last term. He was the top scorer in the league for Bournemouth along with fellow striker Callum Wilson.
Eddie Howe will now be preparing his side for another roller-coaster ride of a season. The English manager is smart enough to know the modern game and is aware that his squad needs strengthening. Here we take a look at three players Bournemouth could bring in to bolster their squad.
Charlie Austin
The English striker currently represents Southampton in the Premier League. The Saints striker scored 7 goals in 24 appearances last season. He made 10 appearances off the bench and scored a goal against Arsenal with his first touch after coming on as a substitute.
He was also prolific in front of goal for former team Queens Park Rangers, scoring 45 goals in 82 appearances over a three-year span.
Despite his impressive numbers, the former Burnley striker played second fiddle to Shane Long all season. Austin could benefit from a move to Bournemouth, who will offer far more minutes than the Saints did. With Jermain Defoe almost at the end of his career, Austin could be their new found saviour.
Gary Cahill
The Chelsea defender experienced a lacklustre season last time around, with a few injuries blighting his run. Andreas Christensen then took his spot in the team and fared really well. The two-time Premier League champion is now 32 years old, and his career at Chelsea is nearing its end.
Christensen could be the one to replace him in the team, following his impressive performances last season. Bournemouth could use this opportunity to sign the experienced centre-back, who would most certainly strengthen their backline. The Cherries signed Nathan Ake permanently from Chelsea last summer and they could use their respectable relationship with the Blues to negotiate a deal for Cahill.
Christian Benteke
The Belgian striker was nowhere near his best last season. The former Liverpool man endured a shocking campaign with Crystal Palace, managing just 3 goals in 31 appearances in the league. A move to the Vitality Stadium could help him pick up some form and revive his career.
