West Ham United locked in Premier League battle for Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma
West Ham United are interested in signing Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma along with several other Premier League clubs, according to TEAMTalk.
The 28-year-old midfield destroyer has enjoyed a tremendous campaign at the Vitality Stadium with Bournemouth all but confirming their English top-flight status for next season, registering five goals in 33 games so far.
The Colombian international’s contract at the Cherries expires at the end of June, leading to plenty of interest from several Premier League suitors this summer.
According to TEAMtalk [6 May], Bournemouth are keen for the 33-time international to stay and are keen to extend his stay at the Vitality. However, the midfielder is assessing his options ahead of a potential move.
“And we can reveal that West Ham – in the market for a Declan Rice successor – are among those keen.
“They are far from the only Premier League side, keen, however. And Crystal Palace and Fulham are also looking to lure Lerma to London this summer.
“In addition, both Leicester and Nottingham Forest all also keen. Their prospects, however, lie entirely on Premier League survival.
“And while he could yet be convinced to stay by Gary O’Neil, it seems Lerma’s time at the Vitality Stadium will be coming to an end this summer.”
Get him in
Lerma has picked up a reputation for being one of the Premier League’s most feared defensive midfielders because of his incredibly combative and aggressive nature in front of his defence. Those characteristics have come to ahead once again this campaign on a consistent basis.
The Colombian has enjoyed a fruitful season for the Cherries, once again establishing himself as one of the club’s best performers, since he joined Levante in 2018.
It’s easy to see why Lerma is attracting plenty of interest right now and considering how good he’s been a move away this summer could well be on the cards and West Ham United must ensure they are at the front of the queue.
With key man Declan Rice set to depart the London Stadium, the Hammers desperately need another dominant enforcer in the midfield and Lerma fits the bill.
As per SofaScore, he averages 1.2 interceptions, 1.3 tackles per game and also winning an impressive 57% of his total duels and 62% of his aerial duels highlighting how dominant and forceful he is in the middle of the park.
At 28 years old, Lerma still has his best years ahead of him and at West Ham United, he could certainly take his game and performances up a notch providing the club with the stability they need in Rice’s absence.