CHERRIES chief executive Neill Blake revealed the club had to fight off plenty of competition to conclude a deal for Marcus Tavernier.

The 23-year-old became Cherries' third signing of the summer this week, reportedly arriving for an initial £10million from Middlesbrough.

The midfielder, who can also operate at wing-back, has signed a five-year deal at Vitality Stadium.

Discussing the club's latest recruit, Blake told the club's website: “We are very pleased to have brought Marcus in. He was one of the stand out performers in the Championship last season, and will be a good fit with our squad.

“He has a great pedigree, tremendous energy and is a versatile young player who can play a number of different positions.

“Marcus was attracting a great deal of interest and we are delighted he has decided to join us. Everyone at the club is looking forward to working with him.”

Tavernier follows Joe Rothwell and Ryan Fredericks in signing for Cherries this summer.