Justin Lerma, the 16-year-old Ecuadorian prodigy, is Borussia Dortmund's new signing, according to his parent club Independiente del Valle. The midfielder will join the German club for the 2026-27 season when he reaches the age of majority.
The 16-year-old will remain with the Ecuadorian side until it is time for him to fly to Dortmund. The plan is for the player to continue his development before making the leap to European football.
Dortmund sporting director Sebastian Kehl said of Lerma's signing: "We have been following Justin's progress for a long time and have maintained a close relationship with him and his family. He is one of the best South American talents of his generation and we are excited to have him.
The Independiente del Valle youth product, who made his first-team debut almost a month ago, will soon begin a new phase in his life. The midfielder currently has two games under his belt with the first-team, starting one of them.
May 13, 2024