Borussia Dortmund have today confirmed the signing of Ecuadorian youth international Justin Lerma (16) from Independiente del Valle. Because of his age, the midfield talent will join the Bundesliga side for the 2026/27 season, after the player has turned 18.
Lerma made his debut this season at the age of 15, and started his first game for Independiente del Valle at the weekend.
“We have been observing Justin for some time and have maintained close contact with the player and his family since then. Justin is one of the best South American players of his generation and we are delighted to have been able to gain such an outstanding talent for Borussia Dortmund,” said sporting director Sebastian Kehl.
Independiente del Valle is of course renowned for producing talented footballers. Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo, Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapié, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Willian Pacho and Kendry Páez, who will join Chelsea next year, have all come through the ranks at the Ecuadorian side.
