Defoe, 34, scored 15 goals in 37 Premier League appearances last season but could not prevent Sunderland from being relegated.

Press Association Sport reported that the former West Ham, Tottenham and Portsmouth man will earn around £65,000 a week on the south coast.

"It's great to be back and I'm really looking forward to this challenge," Defoe told Bournemouth's official website. "When the opportunity came about to return to AFC Bournemouth I just knew it was the right one.

"It was an easy decision, joining a top team with a top manager. It's a great place to be.

"The Bournemouth fans know that every time I pull the shirt on I will give 100 percent, and the one thing I can guarantee is goals."

"This a huge moment for the football club and another step in the right direction," Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe said.

"We want to bring players here who can have a big impact on our continued rise and we believe Jermain fits that as a natural, proven goal scorer.

"We have known him for a long time, since working with him as a young pro and playing with him. I have followed his career and am delighted to say he is going to be playing for AFC Bournemouth again."

Defoe, who has scored 20 goals in 57 appearances for England, had a spell on loan at Bournemouth at the start of his career, in which he scored 18 goals in 29 games and set a club record by striking in 10 consecutive games.

In a statement posted on his Twitter account, Defoe praised his old club, writing: "I'd like to thank all the Sunderland fans for their support, and everyone else involved with the club.

"I had such an amazing time, with so many great memories. I'm going to miss so many people at the club.

"I feel blessed to have played for such a great football club with some of the best fans I've ever come across. I want to wish everyone at Sunderland the best for the future."

The striker becomes Bournemouth's second major signing of the summer following the arrival of Asmir Begovic from Chelsea.

Nathan Ake is also expected to join from Chelsea in a club-record £20m deal, but PA Sport reports the club are not interested in signing John Terry, who will become a free agent on Saturday.