'Sunderland need Jhon Lucumi transfer despite what Luke O'Nien says'
Sunderland may have made seismic strides in the transfer window, but there are still some positions they need to strengthen.
The Black Cats have carried out significant work on their midfield, with five signings made moving forward for Regis Le Bris.
However, the Wearsiders are short at centre back after Chris Mepham departed the Stadium of Light following his loan last season.
Sunderland have been linked with a move for Colombian defender Jhon Lucumi at Bologna, although Luke O'Nien has had something to say about arrivals in his position.
O'Nien reacts as Sunderland linked with Lucumi
Sunderland are in desperate need of new centre-backs as O'Nien is set to miss the start of the Premier League season.
O'Nien went off with a dislocated shoulder in the play-off final and will be absent along with Dennis Cirkin, Leo Hjelde, and Aji Alese.
The Black Cats are interested in Lucumi, who would be available for around £21.7million if he were to leave Bologna.
Last season, the 27-year-old made 44 appearances in all competitions and was a reliable force at the back.
| Jhon Lucumi's 2024/25 Serie A statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 32 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Clean sheets | 10 |
| Ground duels won | 3.9 (60%) |
| Accurate passes | 57.9 (92%) |
| Clearances | 2.6 |
Furthermore, the defender has been capped 29 times by his country and played in the Champions League last term.
While Lucumi seems like he would be an astute addition, O'Nien warned off signing any centre-backs when speaking on Sunderland's transfer business, via Keith Downie (10 July).
He said: "I’m buzzing that they’re arriving and I’m going to be surrounded by players of the highest calibre. But listen, don’t bring in any centre halves.”
Lucumi deal unlikely as Black Cats need defenders
Lucumi has reportedly rejected approaches from Sunderland and Bournemouth, meaning a move to the North East is unlikely.
However, defence is a problem position for Le Bris, and it is an area that must be bolstered ahead of the new season.
As it stands, Dan Ballard and O'Nien would be the first-choice pairing, but as previously mentioned, the latter is out with injury.
Furthermore, the Black Cats need more quality in that position, given the lack of top-flight experience between them.
Of course, O'Nien will have a part to play, but the North East club must press on after Lucumi's reported snub.
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