CHERRIES have confirmed that Jefferson Lerma will depart the Vitality Stadium after the expiry of his contract this summer.

The club’s record signing from Levante for £25 million in 2018, Lerma has made 184 appearances for Cherries.

His last appearance for the club, Sunday’s defeat to Everton, marked his 100th appearance in the Premier League.

It is understood that the midfielder has agreed a deal in principle with Cherries’ Premier League rivals Crystal Palace, although players based in England cannot sign pre-contracts with other domestic clubs until two weeks after the end of the season.

A 33-time international for Colombia, Lerma was named Daily Echo / Micky Cave AFC Bournemouth player of the year this campaign.

Chief executive Neill Blake told the club's website: "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."