Valencia have ‘opened the way’ for a move for AFC Bournemouth midfielder Jefferson Lerma to join the club this summer.
That’s according to MARCA, who say the Spanish side are keen on a loan deal without an option to buy.
They explain that the La Liga side want to sign Mauro Arambarri to reinforce their midfield, and he is the number one choice for manager José Bordalás.
However, recent talks between the two clubs have made it clear that they are very apart on their valuations at this moment in time, and so Valencia are looking at alternatives.
This is where Bournemouth’s Lerma comes into it, with the possibility of moving for the Colombian have ‘opened up’.
That is not because he is a more ‘affordable alternative’ financially, but Valencia have a strong negotiating point.
They would ‘find it impossible’ to offer a permanent deal, or get anywhere near the €30m Bournemouth paid three years ago, but they are trying to see if the Cherries would accept a loan deal without a compulsory purchase option.
There are several issues with this deal because his wages are high compared to Valencia’s wage bill, but a year away could work in Bournemouth’s favour.
It would allow them to get rid of a player who wants out and allow him to revalue himself, something which won’t happen with another year in the Championship.
That is presumably the line that Valencia will push to try and get a deal over the line, with Lerma very much a potential target for them.
