Crawley have begun talks with Bournemouth about signing striker Matt Tubbs on a permanent basis.

Tubbs has scored eight goals in 15 games since rejoining Reds on loan from the Cherries in January, taking his overall tally for the club to 66 in 93 appearances.

Boss John Gregory has stated he would like to keep the 29-year-old at the club next season but admits the situation is complicated by the fact Bournemouth are still in with an outside chance of reaching the Championship play-offs.

Tubbs has had limited opportunities since joining the Cherries for £600,000 from Crawley in January 2012 – starting just 14 games – and his chances of playing would be further reduced in the Premier League.

Gregory said: “Michael Dunford (chief executive) has had some conversations with Bournemouth and we certainly have been talking to Matt and his agent regarding next season.

“The only thing is Bournemouth still have an opportunity to reach the Premier League which could change the scenario a bit. If they did go up then I think Matt could be surplus to requirements and it might be easier to prize him away from a Premier League club than a Championship club.

“We’ll have a clearer picture after Bournemouth’s next couple of games but like everything money could be a deciding factor too.”

Bournemouth’s hopes of reaching the play-offs could end tonight if Albion beat Yeovil. Another season in the Championship would also be confirmed if they fail to win at home to Nottingham Forest tomorrow or Reading win at Doncaster.