Bologna expert reveals how much Sunderland will have to pay for Jhon Lucumi
Sunderland could add Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi to their ranks in the coming days.
Sunderland defeated West Ham 3-0 in their Premier League opener, but Regis Le Bris is still looking for defensive reinforcements.
Dan Ballard produced a magnificent display at the Stadium of Light, but it will not hurt to have depth in one of the most vital positions on the pitch.
Sunderland have made an official bid for Lucumi, after already adding Omar Alderete to their squad last week.
This article contains the exclusive opinion of Bologna-based journalist Luca Bortolotti.
Sunderland can reach Lucumi compromise
Bologna have signed West Brom defender Torbjorn Heggem, which could open the door to a departure for Lucumi.
Fabrizio Romano reported on 18 August that the Mackems have made an official bid for the 27-year-old, and he is apparently keen to join Le Bris’ side.
There has been no agreement reached yet, but Bortolotti believes that a compromise can be reached, and the sides are not too far apart in their valuations.
Speaking exclusively to Mackem News, he said: “He had an expired release clause of £24million and Bologna previously refused £19m, so I guess around £21.5m.
“He’s a good starter here, just sometimes he happens to get distracted.”
What would Lucumi bring to Sunderland?
Lucumi would bring a vast amount of top-level experience to the Mackems’ backline, as he has played in Serie A and the Champions League.
He has made 94 appearances for I Rossoblu in the Italian top-flight, and has also played 13 times in Europe’s top competition.
- Lucumi started his career at Deportivo Cali
- Moved to Belgian side Genk in 2018
- Signed by Bologna in 2022
He is a modern defender, capable of bringing the ball out from the back, with a 91.1 per cent pass accuracy last season.
Le Bris would have a selection headache on his hands if the veteran is signed, as the likes of Dan Ballard, Jenson Seelt, Aldarete and Mukiele are all options for a starting spot at the heart of defence.
However, that is a great problem to have, rather than having no options at all.
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