Bournemouth announce midfielder – set to sign for Crystal Palace – will leave on a free transfer

Bournemouth have announced that Jefferson Lerma will leave the club this summer as a free agent.

The South London Press understands that Crystal Palace are set to sign the 28-year-old on a free transfer.

Lerma was named the Cherries’ Player of the Year by the club’s supporters recently. He signed in 2018 from Levante for a fee in the region of £25million.

A statement on Bounrmeouth’s website said: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Jefferson Lerma will leave the club this summer.

“Lerma arrived at Vitality Stadium in August 2018, signing for a club-record fee and quickly established himself as a fan favourite.

“The tough-tackling Colombian made 183 appearances across five seasons, scoring 12 goals, and endeared himself to supporters with his larger-than-life personality.”

AFC Bournemouth chief executive Neill Blake said: “Jefferson has made an outstanding contribution to the club over the past five years, but during contract negotiations, he has made it clear to us that he seeks a new challenge.

“As both a player and a person, Jefferson has been a key part of our success. While we are naturally disappointed that we won’t see him in an AFC Bournemouth shirt again next season, we thank him for his unwavering commitment and wish him all the best.”