Crystal Palace to pounce as Bournemouth chief confirms Lerma exit

Crystal Palace are closing on a deal for Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma.

Lerma comes off contract at the end of June and the Cherries have confirmed he will be leaving Dean Court.

A move to Palace has been mooted, where they need midfield additions as Luka Milivojevic and James McArthur depart.

Bournemouth chief 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."