JERMAIN DEFOE WILL be playing in the Premier League again next season after the 34-year-old signed a three-year deal with Bournemouth today.

The striker’s 15 goals last season couldn’t prevent Sunderland from returning to the Championship after finishing bottom of the table with just 24 points from their 38 games.

Defoe had a clause in his Black Cats contract that allowed him to leave following relegation and it has since been confirmed that he will return to the Cherries for a second term after a free transfer was agreed.

The former Portsmouth, Tottenham and Toronto player spent a season on loan at Bournemouth in 2000/01 while at West Ham.

Defoe has been enjoying a stellar run of form since returning to England to play for Sunderland in January 2015, culminating in a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s international side and a goal in a World Cup qualifier against Lithuania earlier this year.

He is Bournemouth’s second summer signing after goalkeeper Asmir Begovic’s switch from Chelsea.

“It’s great to be back and I’m really looking forward to this challenge,” said Defoe.

“When the opportunity came about to return to AFC Bournemouth I just knew it was the right one.

“It was an easy decision, joining a top team with a top manager. It’s a great place to be.

“The Bournemouth fans know that every time I pull the shirt on I will give 100 per cent, and the one thing I can guarantee is goals.”

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