Crystal Palace have moved to activate Jefferson Lerma’s contract renewal option. However, there are increasing signs the decision may have arrived too late.
Last week, reports from Spain claimed Lerma was preparing to become a free agent and was looking for the final major contract of his career. There were also suggestions he would prefer to leave English football unless a major Premier League proposal arrived.
Now Palace appear to be reacting to that situation by triggering the extension clause in his contract. However, the growing level of interest around the 31-year-old means the club may still face a battle to keep him.
That is according to Colombian journalist Pipe Sierra, who reports several clubs are now showing strong interest in the midfielder. This comes after he entered the final month of his deal at Selhurst Park.
European interest growing
Bolavip Colombia add that Lerma is expected to decide his future after the World Cup with Colombia. Unless there is a major surprise in the coming weeks, this is the likely timeline.
The report again states the midfielder rejected Crystal Palace’s renewal proposal despite helping the club secure another trophy by winning the UEFA Conference League. Moreover, Valencia and Sevilla continue to be named as interested clubs from Spain.
Lerma’s situation has quickly become one of the more delicate contract cases at Palace. The club clearly value his experience and influence, especially after another successful campaign. However, the midfielder now appears to have genuine options elsewhere.
There is also recognition of Lerma’s involvement in some of the most important titles in Crystal Palace’s history. According to the Colombian outlet, the midfielder leaves having helped the Eagles win the FA Cup, Community Shield and Conference League.
Daniel Muñoz is also mentioned as another Palace player attracting growing transfer attention ahead of the World Cup, with expectations in Colombia that both players will remain starters for the national side.
Pipe Sierra also highlighted Lerma’s standing in England. The Crystal Palace player is now the Colombian footballer with the most appearances in English football, reaching 303 matches across spells with Bournemouth and Palace.
Even with injury issues this season, Lerma remained an important squad figure. His future now looks set to become one of Palace’s key post-World Cup decisions.