BOURNEMOUTH have signed former West Ham defender Ryan Fredericks on a free transfer.

Fredericks, whose contract at the Hammers was not renewed at the end of last season, has agreed a two-year deal and is Bournemouth’s first summer signing following their promotion to the Premier League.

Bournemouth said in a statement on their official website: “AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of defender Ryan Fredericks on a two-year contract.

Echo: Ryan Fredericks was released by West HamRyan Fredericks was released by West Ham

“The experienced full-back will arrive at Vitality Stadium on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract with West Ham United.”

The 29-year-old is reunited with Cherries boss Scott Parker after the pair played alongside each other for two seasons at Fulham.

After joining Bournemouth, Fredericks said: "I am happy to get it over the line, and not I can not wait for the season to start.

"Just got in touch ans the first person I spoke to was the manager [Scott Parker].

"When a player is out of contract he is going to have offers from various clubs and speak to various people, but the manager was the one that showed the most interest in me and the club in general and really sold it well to me."

Fredericks, who started out in Tottenham’s academy, joined West Ham from Fulham in 2018 and made 77 appearances in all competitions for the Hammers, but made just three Premier League starts last season.

AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake told afcb.co.uk: “To be able to sign a player of Ryan’s ability and experience on a free transfer is a coup for the football club.

“I know Scott speaks very highly of his professionalism and character and he’s a talented player that will bolster the squad.

“Ryan has experience of the biggest games, playing regularly in West Ham’s Europa League run last season and has crucial Premier League experience which will be important to our squad for the upcoming campaign.”