Crystal Palace snap up Jefferson Lerma on free transfer from Premier League rivals Bournemouth

Crystal Palace have agreed terms with Colombia midfielder Jefferson Lerma on a three-year deal.

The 28-year-old, who spent five years on the south coast with Bournemouth, will join the Eagles on July 1 after his current contract at the Vitality stadium ends.

Lerma played a key role in ensuring Gary O’Neil’s side escaped the drop, starting 37 games for the Cherries as they ended the season in 15th place.

‘I am very happy and excited by this new opportunity,’ Lerma told the official Palace website.

‘Crystal Palace has good players and a good team, and I want to help with every objective the club has next season.’

Crystal Palace’s strong form at the end of the season ensured their escaped the drop with ease

Roy Hodgson led the squad to safety but it is unclear whether he will continue in the role

Uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation at Selhurst Park remains after interim boss Roy Hodgson guided the club to safety following the sacking of Patrick Vieira.

Lerma will join an exciting roster that sparked into life after Hodgson’s arrival. The squad finished the season with a record of five wins and three draws from 10 games under the former England manager to finish just outside the Premier League’s top-ten.

Palace 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.’

Lerma joined Bournemouth from Levante in August 2018 for a club-record £25million fee. He went on to make 184 appearances in five seasons with the Cherries. He has also won 33 caps for Colombia.