CHERRIES midfielder Jefferson Lerma has tested positive for COVID-19.

The Colombia international had been set to join up with his national team for their World Cup qualifiers against Peru and Argentina next week but has been forced to withdraw from the squad.

Cherries’ club record signing played 90 minutes for Scott Parker’s side in their 1-0 defeat to Hull City at Vitality Stadium on Saturday.

But the El Cerrito-born star will now undergo a period of isolation.

A statement on Cherries website read: “AFC Bournemouth can confirm midfielder Jefferson Lerma has tested positive for COVID-19 and has begun a period of isolation, as per government guidelines.

“Lerma had been due to join up with the Colombia national team ahead of their upcoming World Cup qualifiers next week, but has withdrawn from the squad following the result.”

Former Levante man Lerma has played 24 times for both club and country during this season, four of which have been in World Cup qualifiers.