Jefferson Andrés Lerma Solís

Lerma developed his foundational football skills at the Atlético Huila youth academy in Colombia. He successfully navigated their age-group levels before officially breaking into the senior squad as a professional in 2013.

Jefferson Lerma commenced his professional career in his native country, joining the youth ranks of Atlético Huila and eventually breaking into their senior squad in 2013. He spent three formative seasons there, making over 80 appearances and proving himself as a highly capable defensive midfielder. His robust performances in the Categoría Primera A naturally attracted significant attention from European scouts looking for aggressive midfield talent.

In August 2015, he made the massive leap to European football, joining Spanish club Levante initially on loan. After successfully adapting to the tactical rigors of La Liga and helping the team navigate promotion from the Segunda División, his transfer was made permanent. He spent three highly consistent seasons in Spain, making nearly 90 appearances and firmly establishing his reputation as a tough-tackling enforcer in the middle of the park.

His incredible physical attributes prompted Premier League side AFC Bournemouth to secure his services in August 2018 for a club-record fee of €30 million. Lerma immediately became a fan favorite on the south coast of England, known for his relentless energy and crucial interceptions. Even when the club suffered relegation to the Championship, he remained deeply committed, ultimately playing a vital role in their triumphant return to the Premier League in 2022.

Following the expiration of his contract with Bournemouth in the summer of 2023, he sought a new challenge and signed a lucrative free transfer with Crystal Palace. At Palace, Lerma seamlessly integrated into the starting lineup, forming a formidable midfield partnership and heavily contributing to the club's defensive stability. As of 2026, he continues to dictate play for the London-based side, utilizing his vast Premier League experience to mentor younger teammates.

Internationally, Lerma debuted for the Colombia national team in late 2017 after previously representing the Olympic squad in 2016. He was selected for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, providing essential defensive cover throughout the tournament. He has since remained a crucial component of Colombia's midfield, most notably helping the national side reach the final of the 2024 Copa América with his dominant midfield displays.

Jefferson Lerma was born and raised in El Cerrito, Colombia, to his parents, Aldemar Lerma and Miriam Solís. Growing up in a football-loving family, he spent his entire childhood honing his skills on local dirt pitches before officially joining professional academies. He frequently credits his parents' unwavering support and sacrifices for his ability to successfully navigate the highly competitive world of South American football.

He is happily married to his longtime partner, Karoll Osorio, and the couple shares a deeply devoted family life with their two sons and one daughter. Despite his incredibly aggressive persona on the football pitch, he is widely known off the field as a calm, family-oriented individual who heavily avoids the tabloid spotlight. He frequently shares wholesome glimpses of his family vacations and personal milestones on his social media platforms.

Lerma is also deeply committed to giving back to his home community in the Valle del Cauca department. He regularly funds local youth tournaments and provides crucial sports equipment to underprivileged children, aiming to foster the next generation of Colombian athletes. His philanthropic efforts highlight his profound desire to use his massive professional success to uplift those facing severe economic hardships in his home country.