Crystal Palace have confirmed the signing of Colombia international Jefferson Lerma on a free transfer, with the midfielder set to join on 1 July when his contract with Bournemouth expires. The 28-year-old has signed a three-year contract at Selhurst Park.
Lerma started 37 Premier League games for Bournemouth in 2022-23, scoring five goals. He spent five seasons with the Cherries, joining for a club-record £25m from La Liga side Levante in the summer of 2018. He has scored 12 goals in 99 top-flight appearances for Bournemouth, while playing 183 games in total for the Cherries. He also has 33 caps for Colombia and one international goal.
Palace are losing two midfielders this summer with captain Luka Milivojevic and James McArthur departing when their deals expire. Chairman Steve Parish said: “Jefferson is a strong addition to our squad. He is a proven performer at Premier League level, and his combative and competitive nature will endear him to the Palace fans. We look forward to welcoming him to the club on 1 July in preparation for our 11th consecutive season in the top flight.”
It is not yet clear who will be in charge of Crystal Palace next campaign with Roy Hodgson, who led the club to 11th place this term, still expected to step down following his short-term contract. For all the latest football transfers, visit our dedicated page.