Bournemouth make Jefferson Lerma their record signing | OneFootball

Bournemouth have completed the signing of Levante’s Jefferson Lerma for a reported £25m fee.

Lerma become’s the Cherries’ new club record signing, and he has signed a five-year contract at the Vitality Stadium.

“I’m so happy to be an AFC Bournemouth player,” the 23-year-old central midfielder told the club’s official website.

“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.”

Lerma joined Levante from Atletico Huila in 2015 and went on to make 93 appearances for the La Liga club. He has been capped nine times by Colombia and played against England at this summer’s World Cup.

“It’s no secret that Jefferson has been someone we have chased for a while this summer,” added Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe.

“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.”