Bournemouth add combative midfielder to squad in club-record deal

 

Bournemouth have confirmed the signing of Colombia international Jefferson Lerma from La Liga side Levante for a club-record fee, believed to be £25m. 

 

The Cherries have been heavily linked with the Colombian for some time and has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at the Vitality Stadium. 

 

“AFC Bournemouth have completed the signing of Colombia international Jefferson Lerma for a club record fee, subject to international clearance,” a statement read on the club’s official website. 

 

“The 23-year-old central midfielder arrives from Levante and has put pen to paper on a five-year deal. 

 

“Lerma began his career with Atletico Huila, in his homeland, and rose through their ranks to become a first team regular. 

 

“In August 2015 he joined Levante, initially on loan before the switch was made permanent a year later, and made 93 appearances for Granotas in all competitions, scoring three goals. 

 

“Making his senior international debut in November 2017, Lerma has won nine caps to date and represented his nation at the 2016 Olympic Games and 2018 World Cup.” 

 

 

On his move to Bournemouth, Lerma said: “I’m so happy to be an AFC Bournemouth player. 

 

“The transfer has been very long because it took a while for the clubs to reach an agreement, but the most important thing is that I am here now and everyone got what they wanted in the end. 

 

“I have always loved the Premier League style of football and am very happy to have this opportunity. 

 

“I am looking forward to success and doing important things for this club.” 

 

Cherries boss Eddie Howe added: “It’s no secret that Jefferson has been someone we have chased for a while this summer. 

 

“It’s been a complicated deal but I am certain it will be worth all the hard work that people have put in to make this happen. 

 

“Jefferson is an extremely talented player and a very good athlete who will bring a different type of play to our midfield. 

 

“He has a lot of qualities that will be suited to the Premier League and I’m really looking forward to working with him.” 

 

Lerma’s ill-discipline is cause for concern, however, with the midfielder earning more yellow cards (16) than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues last season.