Written by Oliver Ferris (@OllieFerris12)
Head coach Scott Parker confirmed in Thursday’s pre-match press conference there is interest for winger Arnaut Danjuma, with one bid rejected so far and a rise in the number of clubs interested.
News coming from Spanish outlet Marca earlier in the week reported that Europa League champions Villarreal have had a bid rejected, whilst also reporting interest from Premier League clubs. Believed to be amongst those interested are top six side Liverpool as they look to add to their squad ahead of their title challenge this season.
Coming into the new job, Parker stated that he did have a conversation with the player, which ultimately appears to have encouraged Surridge to make the difficult decision.
“I explained at this moment in time, if minutes on the pitch was the be all or end all, I can’t guarantee him that.
“Hence why he has made the choice and we see it as a good decision for himself.”
As well as it being a busy period for outgoings, the head coach has made it clear over the past few weeks how Bournemouth are active in the “difficult” market. Although having a talented squad at his disposal, Parker hasn’t shied away from the fact that strengthening in areas and overall squad depth is needed.
“We need to strengthen, and I think that is clear. The squad is light, and I think you would have seen that over the pre-season games.
“There is constant dialogue with the board on where we need to strengthen and where we are light,” he expressed in yesterday’s press conference.
Since the departure of goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, Bournemouth have been in the market to add to the position, but Irishman Mark Travers has performed excellently in place of the former number one. The 22-year-old has impressed Parker with the opportunity to push for the starting 11, but will still be an area to build on with only Will Dennis acting as competition.
Talking to Nerve Sport, Parker said: “I think Mark has done very well. He is good with his feet and gives us a good foundation in the early part of the phases of how we want to play.”
“It is an area we need to improve and reinforce because we are light. I certainly expect us to do something in the window regarding that.”
Across the board, Parker is hopeful that new additions can be made come 11pm on the August 3. Experience tells the former Fulham boss how tough the Championship is, and the new head coach is happy with how the club is trying their best to add personnel ahead of their ambitious season:
“I realise the challenges and how difficult it is to get a signing over the line. We will need to be creative and on the front foot, and I’m sure we will get some over the line.
“It’s a difficult market of many reasons. There are people spending every minute of the day trying to improve and strengthen our squad.
“It is going to be a tough season with a lot of games, so we are doing all we can.”