Crystal Palace 'closing in on Jefferson Lerma deal'

Crystal Palace are reportedly close to signing Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma.

The Colombian featured regularly for the Cherries during the 2022-23 season, starting 37 of the club's 38 Premier League games.

Lerma chipped in with five-goal this term, helping his side move away from the danger zone and secure a 15th-placed finish.

The midfielder has spent five years with the Cherries since joining the club in a £25m transfer from Spanish side Levante in 2018.

However, with his contract set to expire next month, Lerma's time at the Vitality Stadium appears to be coming towards an end.

© Reuters

A recent report claimed that the player has turned down multiple offers to extend his contract with the South-coast club.

Despite Bournemouth boss Gary O'Neil expressing a desire to retain his services, Lerma is set to leave on a free transfer this summer.

The 28-year-old has reportedly been presented with proposals from a number of clubs, but it appears that he could be heading to Selhurst Park.

According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Palace are currently leading the race to sign the Colombia international.

© Reuters

The report claims that the Eagles are progressing well in their bid to sign Lerma on a free transfer ahead of the 2023-24 season.

The Eagles are keen to strengthen in the middle of the park this summer, with experienced midfielders James McArthur and Luka Milovojevic both set to depart.

In what was likely his last appearance for the club, Lerma played the duration of Bournemouth's 1-0 defeat to Everton on the final day of the Premier League season.

The 28-year-old will leave the Cherries after featuring in 184 games across all competitions, contributing 12 goals and eight assists.