Bournemouth are close to signing Rothwell with Blackburn contract will expire

  /  autty

Bournemouth are close to reaching an agreement with free agent Joe Rothwell after he allowed his contract at Blackburn Rovers to run down.

The Cherries tried to sign the central midfielder in January on deadline day and have made good on a promise to return for the former Manchester United trainee.

Fellow promoted sides Nottingham Forest and Fulham had also shown an interest in Rothwell.

The 26-year-old has been one of the most consistent performers in the Championship over recent seasons with his high energy and skilful performances.

He has made 161 appearances for Rovers in all competitions since moving from Oxford United in summer 2018, scoring 11 goals.

Bournemouth are also discussing a move for Middlesbrough's highly rated winger Marcus Tavernier.

The 23-year-old has attracted enquiries from recently relegated Watford and Burnley in recent months.

But the fact Scott Parker's side are now playing in the top flight could give them an edge.

Bournemouth, Fulham and Forest are also all aiming to sign Barnsley midfielder Callum Styles, according to reports.

Related: Middlesbrough Blackburn Rovers AFC Bournemouth Joe Rothwell Marcus Tavernier
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