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Lerma to depart the Cherries

AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Jefferson Lerma will leave the club this summer.

Lerma arrived at Vitality Stadium in August 2018, signing for a club-record fee and quickly established himself as a fan favourite.

The tough-tackling Colombian made 183 appearances across five seasons, scoring 12 goals, and endeared himself to supporters with his larger-than-life personality.

No Cherries player played more than Lerma in the 2022/23 season, his most successful campaign at the club. He netted five goals in the Premier League, including a double in our memorable victory over Leeds United in April.

AFC Bournemouth chief executive 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."