Bournemouth signs winger Max Gradel from Saint-Etienne

Gradel has signed a four-year deal and represents Eddie Howe’s seventh signing of the summer window so far.

Bournemouth transfer target Max Gradel has made sensational claims that his current Saint-Etienne are trying to blackmail him over a potential move to the Premier League.

The deal sees Gradel, 27, return to a club where he previously spent two spells on loan during the 2007-08 season.

“He had real ability and was an eye-catching performer”, Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said of Gradel’s first stint at the club.

Gradel will not only be a familiar name to English football, after coming through the youth ranks at Leicester City and then going on to play for Leeds United, but also more specifically to Bournemouth fans. I had offers for more money and bigger clubs but in football you have to go where you will be happy.

The winger had one of his best seasons for the Ligue 1 side last term, scoring 17 goals in 23 starts to help them finish fifth and qualify for the Europa League.

“Having worked with him when I was a young coach and he was a young player, we built up a strong relationship. I have no doubts that [the fans] will rekindle their love for him”.