Sunderland close in on Jhon Lucumi deal as second bid details emerge
Sunderland have been chasing a new centre-back at the Stadium of Light, ready for their new Premier League campaign.
Now that it appears Nayef Aguerd will remain at West Ham, Regis Le Bris is forced to focus his efforts elsewhere.
Jhon Lucumi has been heavily linked to Sunderland in recent weeks after impressing in the Serie A with Bologna.
Now, it appears that the transfer saga has significantly developed.
Sunderland prepare improved £19.2m bid for Lucumi
Recent reports have indicated that Sunderland have been prioritising Lucumi.
The Colombian international has been in the Serie A since 2022 and has been an integral part of Bologna’s rise.
Last season, the 27-year-old helped the Italian side win the Coppa Italia while he also competed in the Champions League.
Sunderland were said to have already bid £15million for Lucumi and now they are prepared to up this.
According to Quotidiano Sportivo (25 July), the Black Cats are looking to send another bid to Bologna, this time worth £17.45m, plus an additional £1.74m in add-ons.
This would be incredibly close to the Serie A outfit’s asking price of £21.8m, suggesting a deal could now be very close.
Bournemouth are said to still be in the race for the centre-back, with Bologna now looking for potential replacements.
Diogo Leite from Union Berlin and also of Fedde Leysen from Union Saint Gilloise are being looked at by the Italians as Lucumi edges closer to an exit.
Lucumi would be the centre-back Le Bris needs
It is no secret that Sunderland now need a centre-back after their attacking additions.
Given Lucumi’s experience, there is no reason why the Colombian wouldn’t become an instant hit at the Black Cats.
| Jhon Lucumi at Bologna | |
| Appearances | 109 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 3 |
| Honours | Coppa Italia x1 |
The 27-year-old appears to be exactly the type of player that Sunderland need and could transform their backline.
Hopefully, Le Bris quickly puts in the bid so Lucumi is one step closer to moving to the Stadium of Light.
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