Soler signing is Cherries 'investing in the future'

Bournemouth's signing of young left-back Julio Soler from Argentine side Lanus is preparation for a future that could involve European football, says former Cherries defender Joe Partington.

Milos Kerkez is enjoying an excellent season in that position but is reportedly attracting interest from the likes of Manchester United and it is one of the few areas where manager Andoni Iraola does not have two strong options.

Speaking to BBC Radio Solent's Cherries: Unpicked podcast, Partington said: "Milos Kerkez looks like an incredibly fit player. I love that ability he has to sprint to get up with play, but you need back-up.

"Bournemouth are now a club that can invest in the future. They don't necessarily feel comfortable with where they are in the Premier League, but they are established enough that they are building towards a future.

"If you are going to be a European football club and effectively add a third more games to your season then you need more players who are at that level to play. You can't expect every player to play every minute, especially with games midweek.

"Kerkez is playing very well without competition but adding a 19-year-old in Julio Soler who is keen to play might take him to another level.

"It's always good to add more depth, that's how you really push your environment.

"Bournemouth have reached a level where they are signing players who can come in and play and make the environment better immediately rather than needing development and when you have that it is a recipe for success."

Listen to the full episode on BBC Sounds