CHERRIES are in competition with Fulham to sign Swansea City captain Matt Grimes, according to a report by Mail Online.

Scott Parker left his role as Fulham boss to become Cherries' head coach last month.

And he is now reportedly battling his former club to bring midfielder Grimes to Vitality Stadium.

The Mail claim Parker had been keen on the 25-year-old during his time in charge of Fulham.

The Exeter-born ace's current contract with the Swans is understood to be set to expire next summer.

Premier League duo Southampton and Newcastle United have also been linked with a move for Grimes.

Before moving to Swansea in 2015, Grimes came through the ranks at Exeter City. He has also spent time out on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Leeds United and Northampton Town before becoming a key figure in the Swans midfield.

Under Steve Cooper last season, Grimes played 51 times, including the Championship play-off final defeat to Brentford, and the full 90 minutes of both league contests against Cherries.

He netted five goals throughout the campaign, one of which coming in the play-off semi-finals against Barnsley.

Grimes has now made a total of 157 appearances for Swansea, scoring eight times.