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Bournemouth are now among the two clubs showing the strongest interest in Elche defender David Affengruber. The Cherries have competition from AS Roma, but Marco Rose could give them an advantage. The Bournemouth manager already knows the 25-year-old from their time in the Red Bull system. Spanish newspaper AS brings the update on Thursday and says Affengruber’s contractual situation has attracted several clubs. Bournemouth have Marco Rose connection David Affengruber has entered the final year of his contract at Elche, with his current deal expiring in June 2027. The Spanish club have been trying to renew his contract for some time. So far, those talks haven’t produced an agreement. That creates an obvious problem for Elche. They risk losing the Austria international for nothing next summer if they keep him without securing a renewal. AS therefore says Elche would be open to a “fair sale” during the current window. That gives Bournemouth an opportunity if they decide to push ahead. Rose also has some previous knowledge of the player. Affengruber came through the Red Bull Salzburg system, where the pair crossed paths. The Bournemouth manager therefore knows the defender from well before his move to Spain. Affengruber joined Elche in 2024 and his performances have followed a sharp upward curve. AS describes him as one of La Liga’s revelations last season. The defender was even linked with a move to Manchester United recently. He was also part of Austria’s squad at this summer’s World Cup. That earned him some additional time off before returning for Elche’s pre-season. Roma offer Champions League competition David Affengruber now has several possibilities to consider, although Bournemouth and Roma are presented as the two most interested clubs. Roma can offer Champions League football next season. AS makes clear that playing in Europe, particularly in that competition, appeals to the centre-back. That gives the Italian club an obvious card to play. There may also be some pressure to make a decision relatively quickly. Other European clubs have already asked about the Austrian. AS believes the opening rounds of the new season could encourage some of those sides to make their move. For Bournemouth, this looks like an interesting market opportunity. Affengruber is coming off an impressive season and Elche have a contract problem to solve. Rose knowing exactly what he would be getting only adds another layer to the Cherries’ interest.