Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe has described the signing of winger Max Gradel as a "real achievement" for the club.

The 27-year-old joined the Cherries from Saint-Etienne on Tuesday for an undisclosed fee.

Gradel, who scored 17 goals last season, previously played for Bournemouth on loan in the 2007-08 campaign.

Howe believes that the Ivory Coast international will make a big impact at Dean Court during the new season.

"I am delighted to have brought someone of Max's quality and calibre to the football club," he told the Daily Echo. "Having worked with him when I was a young coach and he was a young player, we built up a strong relationship.

"I have followed his career ever since and never thought I would be fortunate enough to be able to sign him permanently for this club.

"I think it is a real achievement to be able to bring him in and attract him to the club. Hopefully he will enjoy his second time here. I have no doubts that [the fans] will rekindle their love for him."

Bournemouth get their Premier League campaign underway at home to Aston Villa on Saturday.