Bournemouth sign Colombia international Lerma

Colombia international Jefferson Lerma has signed for Premier League side AFC Bournemouth for a club record fee.

The 23-year old midfielder moves from Spanish La Liga side signing a five-year deal.

Lerma was part of Colombia World Cup squad at the recently concluded Russia 2018.

“I’m so happy to be an AFC Bournemouth player,” said Lerma.

“The transfer has been very long because it took a while for the clubs to reach an agreement, but the most important thing is that I am here now and everyone got what they wanted in the end.

“I have always loved the Premier League style of football and am very happy to have this opportunity.

“I am looking forward to success and doing important things for this club.”

AFC Bournemouth manager, Eddie Howe, said: “It’s no secret that Jefferson has been someone we have chased for a while this summer.

“It’s been a complicated deal but I am certain it will be worth all the hard work that people have put in to make this happen.

“Jefferson is an extremely talented player and a very good athlete who will bring a different type of play to our midfield.

“He has a lot of qualities that will be suited to the Premier League and I’m really looking forward to working with him.”