'If someone comes for Solanke, we will have to replace him' - Foley

Image source, Getty Images

  • Author, Simon Stone
  • Role, Chief football news reporter

Bournemouth owner Bill Foley "believes" highly-rated Dominic Solanke will be playing for the Cherries next season.

Solanke made 42 appearances for the Cherries last season, scoring 21 goals and registering four assists.

Exclusively chatting with 大象传媒 Sport from Santa Barbara while the Cherries are on a pre-season tour of the United States, Foley tackled transfer interest in the striker and his 拢65m release clause.

"I believe Dom is going to be with us this coming year," said Foley. "He has a release clause, which is very expensive.

"We shouldn't reveal anything about the contract, but that area [reported 拢65m] sounds roughly correct.

"I guess if someone comes for him, we are going to have to replace him.

"We have two or three candidates that we have lined up, but I believe Dom will be here next year - and I believe he is going to score 21 or 22 goals."

Foley also discussed the European ambitions of manager Andoni Iraola and his squad, adding: "We have big aspirations, but we are patient.

"Our goal this year is modest. Can we move into the top eight or nine, maybe even sneak into Europe?

"Our real goal is to play in Europe, to give our players a chance to experience Europe, and do it with little Bournemouth."