Spanish journalist Matteo Moretto claims Leeds are one of a number of clubs to have made an offer for Jefferson Lerma with the midfielder available on a free transfer – as his Bournemouth contract is due to expire in the summer.
Leeds fans will recognise Lerma’s name not simply from being a Premier League midfielder, or a Colombia player, but from the fact he scored a brace against Leeds recently – in Javi Gracia’s last game in charge as our manager.
His form has been crucial for Bournemouth’s rise from a relegation dogfight, to survival. The Cherries are now nine points clear of the drop zone, with 18th-placed Leicester having just three games left to play. Leeds are in 19th.
Bournemouth will surely want to keep Lerma. But his lack of contract means plenty of clubs are lining up a move to get him, and Moretto claims Leeds are one of those. Aston Villa, Newcastle and West Ham are also interested.
He says: “Lerma. The Colombian is having a great season. Contract ends in June. Bournemouth want to renew but there are many offers on table. Teams from Spain, Italy, England, very attentive. Villa, West Ham, Leeds, Newcastle.”
Moretto says Leeds one of a number of clubs to make Lerma offer
There is no chance Lerma joins Leeds if the club are relegated. Absolutely none. Especially, with his current side dismantling the Whites recently, and Bournemouth in the Premier League next season. Others are more attractive.
The likes of Villa or Newcastle, or even West Ham – all of whom could be in Europe next season. Lerma may want to return to Spain, having played almost 100 games for Levante before his move to Bournemouth. Plenty on offer.
But with Gary O’Neil at the helm and Bournemouth impressing under his guidance, perhaps Lerma will be tempted to stay on at the Vitality. Especially with new backing above him, and a push this summer in the transfer market.
