Massive money.
Career renaissances are few and far between, but Jermain Defoe has really rejuvenated himself.
Defoe’s improvement has been so in recent times that he looks set to stay in the Premier League, despite Sunderland’s relegation this season.
Sky Sports report that a clause in Defoe’s contract means that he can move for free upon Sunderland’s relegation, and he is reportedly in talks with his former club Bournemouth.
BREAKING: @IAmJermainDefoe
agrees to join @afcbournemouth on free transfer from @SunderlandAFC – Sky sources. #SSNHQ pic.twitter.com/eywsO2TpbV— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 23, 2017
And although the transfer is free, the 34-year-old Defoe won’t come cheap with the club reportedly set to offer a three-year deal worth £20m, according to David Hytner of The Guardian.
I'd be v surprised if Defoe did not end up at Bournemouth. He's been offered £20m over 3 years, incl signing-on fee. Not bad for a 34yo!
— David Hytner (@DaveHytner) May 23, 2017
When he left Tottenham Hotspur for Toronto FC in 2014, it looked as if Defoe would stay that side of the Atlantic, but he returned soon returned to the Premier League and began banging the goals in again.
Since his transfer to Sunderland in 2015, the Black Cats have been a bit of a mess but the former Spurs striker has been their shining light, netting 15 of Sunderland’s 29 league goals this season and also 15 last year.
His performances even led to a return to the England squad under Gareth Southgate.
Thanks to everyone for your messages! Playing for @England has been my dream since day one so to be back in the squad is so special for me.
— Jermain Defoe OBE (@IAmJermainDefoe) March 16, 2017
It's also special for my family and I feel I deserve this because I've always dedicated myself to the game. I'm really looking forward to…
— Jermain Defoe OBE (@IAmJermainDefoe) March 16, 2017
Meeting up with the squad and seeing all the boys. This time around it'll be strange being one of the older lads, but I can't wait! BUZZING!
— Jermain Defoe OBE (@IAmJermainDefoe) March 16, 2017
Bournemouth will be looking to build on their top 10 finish next season. Eddie Howe’s team finished the season in ninth, a brilliant achievement in their just their second season in the Premier League.
