Bologna’s stance on Jhon Lucumi now revealed as Sunderland eye January transfer
Sunderland fought hard to land Jhon Lucumi from Bologna this summer, but to no avail.
The centre-back position was of prime focus to the Black Cats amid a lack of depth and a mini injury crisis.
Sunderland failed in a late bid to land Lucumi, with the Serie A side refusing to let him leave late in the window.
Now, Bologna have revealed their stance on the defender, with the Wearsiders keen to land him in January.
Bologna to offer Jhon Lucumi lucrative new deal amid Sunderland interest
Bologna axed Jhon Lucumi following the Sunderland debacle, with his head clearly muddled by what unfolded.
Despite failing to land the Colombia international, Sunderland secured the signings of Nordi Mukiele and Lutsharel Geertruida.
However, with every chance that the Black Cats could move for the centre-back again in January, Bologna are now taking action.
On 9 September, Quotidiano Sportivo reported that Sunderland offered the defender a deal worth around £49,000 per week and made a formal bid, but the Italian side held firm and blocked the move.
Bologna are ready to do everything to keep Lucumi in Northern Italy, and will hold important talks next week about a new deal, according to Corriere dello Sport on 12 September.
- The Colombian has made two appearances this season
- He made a mistake against Roma that led to a goal on the opening day
- Lucumi has made 111 appearances for Bologna
Furthermore, the Rossoblu are willing to increase the 27-year-old’s current wages, and even if they won’t match Sunderland’s offer, attempts from Sporting Director Giovanni Sartori will continue to keep Lucumi at the club.
The Colombian was reportedly keen to move to Wearside, but Bologna did not want to lose another first-choice centre-back.
Read more: Gabby Agbonlahor lauds ‘key player’ for Sunderland as ‘big upset’ mooted vs Newcastle
What happens if Jhon Lucumi rejects Bologna’s terms?
While all the reports suggest that the 27-year-old will sign a new deal with his current club, there is still a chance he could reject their advances.
If he does, then Bologna would surely have to sell the centre-back in January if he does not want to be there.
Lucumi’s current deal with the Serie A club expires in the summer of 2027, meaning he would have a year and a half remaining in January.
If he turns down Bologna, then would Sunderland be interested?
Well, that would depend on how the Black Cats are faring in the Premier League, and if they are struggling, then they may go back in for him.
Moreover, if Regis Le Bris’ current cohort of centre-backs do not perform, then that would emphasise the need to strengthen.
Now, all eyes will be on Lucumi to see if he does indeed agree to put pen to paper.
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