Asmir Begovic has said that he needed to leave Chelsea for the good of his career.
Begovic, signed from Stoke City in 2015, spent two seasons as the Blues’ back-up for first-choice keeper Thibaut Courtois.
He ended his spell at Stamford Bridge with a Premier league winners’ medal but, at 29, felt he needed to move on and play regular first-team football.
“Being part of a title-winning team at Chelsea was amazing but I felt now was the right time to move on because I want to be playing regular football,” he told Bournemouth’s website.
“I am coming into an important part of my career and I want to show people what I am capable of.
“When I spoke to Eddie Howe I knew AFC Bournemouth was the right club for me and I want to bring my experience to the squad, both on and off the pitch.
“I’m really excited to be part of the journey here and hope I can help take the club to another level.”
Cherries boss Howe wanted to sign Begovic in January but Chelsea would not let him go because they were unable to bring in another keeper as cover for Courtois.
“Asmir is an outstanding goalkeeper who has proved himself capable of performing at the highest level over a number of years,” Howe said.
“He is at the right age and the right fit. He is a leader as well and exactly the kind of character you want in the team.
“Asmir will provide great competition to the excellent group of goalkeepers we already have here and his experience will prove invaluable in the dressing room and on the pitch.
“I look forward to him being a very important player here for years to come.”