CHERRIES are reportedly on the verge of completing the signing of Blackburn Rovers striker Josh King.

The Norwegian international looks set to snub a new contract offer at Ewood Park in favour of joining Eddie Howe’s Premier League newcomers, claims an article in the Lancashire Telegraph.

Rovers have made King a good offer to stay in Lancashire but the player is believed to have been tempted by Cherries’ lure of a three-year deal.

King has been a long-time target for boss Howe and the Dorset club were close to signing him at the end of the January 2014 transfer window.

Unless a fee were to be agreed, Rovers would be entitled to compensation for the 23-year-old, which would be determined by a tribunal.

Cherries are also hoping to complete the signing of highly-rated Chelsea frontman Christian Atsu – the man dubbed the African Messi.

The Dorset outfit are keen to bring the 23-year-old to Dean Court on a season-long loan following promotion to the Premier League.

Ghanaian international Atsu struggled on loan at Everton this season and was restricted to a total of 110 minutes in the top flight for the Toffees.

Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is keen for Atsu to gain more experience but to a club where he is more likely to play and Cherries fit the bill.