Crystal Palace are set to sign Jefferson Lerma after reaching an agreement with the player on a free transfer.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Crystal Palace are on the verge of completing the transfer of Jefferson Lerma. The former Bournemouth star will arrive on a free transfer after his contract with the Cherries expired, with the Eagles pouncing on the opportunity to sign the experienced star.
Jefferson Lerma has been one of those quiet but efficient stars who have stuck through ups and downs during his time at Bournemouth. The Premier League midfielder cost €30.5 million back in 2018 but stayed with the club despite their relegation in that period.
Lerma has consistently performed for the Cherries on their return to the Premier League. He racked up 37 appearances for Bournemouth, scoring five times during the campaign, helping them avoid relegation. With a good season under his belt, the Premier League midfielder decided not to renew his contract and will move on in a Bosman deal.
West Ham United showed interest earlier, but Crystal Palace appeared like the front runners. The Eagles had laid the groundwork well before the season ended when it became clear Lerma would not extend his stay with Bournemouth. Now they are close to completing the signing, as many of the documents are signed and sealed.
Crystal Palace are set to sign Jefferson Lerma, here we go! Free transfer from Bournemouth completed, documents are sealed 🔵🔴🦅 #CPFC @PSierraR
Verbal agreement reached weeks ago, contract now signed. It will be valid until June 2027. pic.twitter.com/zTGpQ2F92A
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 6, 2023
The opportunity comes at a good time as Palace might dispose of it with some of their other more experienced professionals in a similar position. The club might move away from Luka Milivojevic and James McArthur as they look to refresh their midfield options.
As his goals tally tends to show, Lerma offers more than a standard defensive midfielder. He can connect with the offensive side well and deliver when it matters. He could become a solid addition to this progressive Palace side, brimming with confidence with their end-of-the-season finish.
They must move forward with fresh ideas after the stint with Patrick Vieira failed. Some might have suggested handing veteran Roy Hodgson a new contract, but they must find a new head coach who can take them in the desired direction.
