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Eddie Howe says 'no guarantees' Bournemouth will make more signings

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Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe gives his view on whether the transfer window should shut before the season starts

Eddie Howe says there are "no guarantees" Bournemouth will make any more signings before the end of the transfer window.

Howe dismissed the notion that fans of the club may be getting restless due to a lack of activity since four signings were made soon after the window opened.

Jermain Defoe, Nathan Ake and Asmir Begovic are among the players the Cherries signed since last season, and Howe said: "It was always our plan to get our business done early.

"It doesn't matter when you get them done, as long as you get the players that you want. We were able to do that.

"The fact that there is inactivity, I don't buy that theory that people will get restless. Just look at the quality we have brought in."

Jermain Defoe's Bournemouth suffered an opening defeat to West Brom
Image: Jermain Defoe could start on Saturday, says Eddie Howe

Bournemouth are seeking their first points of the season when they host Watford on Saturday, after losing their Premier League opener 1-0 at West Brom last weekend.

Howe concedes that, while the size of his squad means there is room for another body, further arrivals are not certain.

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"From my perspective, the squad is tight in numbers this year," said Howe. "We will wait and see whether we are able to do anything before the window closes but it is not a guarantee.

"Possibly (look to add a player) in one position but it is not a must. Although we are short on numbers we are very high on quality.

"This year I think the big difference is that the pool of players I have to pick from is very, very strong. But we don't have the huge depth if we get any more injuries."

Demarai Gray in action during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Bournemouth
Image: Howe played down talk of a move for Demarai Gray

Demarai Gray of Leicester has been reportedly linked with Bournemouth this summer, but Howe did not hint at an imminent deal.

"I made it very clear previously when Demarai was at Birmingham that we did like the player," said Howe.

"But he is very much a Leicester player now and I won't comment on other people's players."

Regarding team news for the Watford match, Howe added: "Jermain is in contention to start.

"Simon Francis has had intensive treatment this week so we will make a late decision on him. Junior Stanislas is definitely out."

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