Crystal Palace midfielder Jefferson Lerma has become a recurring name in South American transfer chatter, with Vasco da Gama repeatedly linked as a possible destination.

Fresh reports from Brazil and Colombia, however, suggest the reality is far more complicated than early whispers implied.

While the Rio de Janeiro club admire Lerma’s pedigree, the financial and sporting conditions required to complete a deal appear formidable, casting doubt on any imminent move.

Jefferson Lerma is not close to leaving Crystal Palace

Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola has poured cold water on the story, stating on his YouTube channel that a transfer looks unrealistic at this stage.

Lerma commands a significant salary and remains under contract at Crystal Palace until June 2027, meaning any approach would require not only a competitive wage package but also a fee capable of tempting Palace into negotiations.

On the pitch, Lerma’s season has been mixed. He has featured in 14 matches across competitions for Palace without registering a goal or an assist, and his role under Oliver Glasner has shifted.

Rather than operating exclusively as a ball-winning No. 6, the Colombian has occasionally been deployed deeper, even as a third centre-back in certain games.

While the tactical tweak speaks to Lerma’s versatility and positional intelligence,...