Get the FREE Mirror Football newsletter by email with the day's key headlines and transfer news Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Jermain Defoe says he will spend "as much time as possible" with terminally-ill Bradley Lowery following his move to Bournemouth.

Defoe has confirmed that he has undergone a medical with the south coast side after leaving relegated Sunderland, where he struck up a close friendship with the six-year-old.

The England striker says he has "been blessed" to have been part of Bradley's life, with his parents saying he has just weeks to live.

Bradley is suffering from neuroblastoma and is currently receiving palliative care at his home in County Durham.

Defoe said that his friendship with Bradley has been the "highlight of my season" as he spoke before England's double header with Scotland and France over the next week.

(Image: MDM) (Image: Rex Features) (Image: REUTERS)

"Away from football the relationship I've managed to develop with Bradley and what I've brought to his life and what he's brought to mine has been really special," he said.

"It's just been sad to see him go through what he has been and he's only six. But I still feel blessed that I'm able to be in his life.

"I've got so many great memories and moments that I have shared with him that will probably stay with me for the rest of my life now. So I'm just grateful for that."

Defoe admitted that he "didn't really know what to say" when he heard that Bradley, who led the England team out at Wembley with Defoe in March, had only weeks to live.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

"Every day I wake up and I will text his mum and ask how he is getting on and she will say he's OK. But the reality is that he's really struggling," he continued.

"All I can do is try and be there for him and the family. When I finish with England I'll try and get up there again before I go away."

When asked if Bradley will still be best mates with him after he swaps Sunderland for Bournemouth, Defoe said: ”Of course! I hope so anyway.

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

"He’ll probably tell me off!”

“It would’ve been nice if he could have come to the two [England] games.

“He loves football and his family does as well. [They’re] such a nice family – his mum, dad, nan. Such nice people and I feel blessed to be involved.

"I want to try and spend as much time with him as possible."