Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media

Richie Mills

Tue 13 January 2026 11:07, UK

Sunderland are once again being linked with Bologna star Jhon Lucumi.

Sunderland spent more than £160million on transfers during the summer window as they tried to establish themselves in the Premier League after eight years away.

That gamble has paid off in spades, with Sunderland currently sitting 10th in the division – a whopping 16 points above the relegation zone, and with eyes on European football.

Midfielder Granit Xhaka has arguably been the signing of the season, but so far, the Black Cats have not splashed the cash this month.

Conversely, Zak Johnson has joined York City on loan, Timothee Pembele has headed to Le Havre for a short-term stint, and Jay Matete is now with MK Dons. But Sunderland are in the market to bolster their ranks before the January transfer window shuts.

Sunderland target Jhon Lucumi’s ‘uncertain’ future

Sunderland tried and failed to sign centre-back Lucumi towards the end of the summer transfer window and, after Bologna dug their heels in, Lucumi was reintegrated back into Bologna’s fold after Sunderland’s failed bid.

While the Mackems signed Lutsharel Geertruida from RB Leipzig, a player who has proven to be a versatile and worthwhile acquisition, Sunderland have still been linked with a Lucumi deal.

And according to the Sunderland Echo, the 27-year-old’s future at the Italian outfit remains “uncertain”.

Lucumi, who has made 23 appearances for Bologna this season, is in the final 18 months of his contract and for now, it seems there is no talk of an extension.

However, the Echo adds that Sunderland are not currently planning a swoop for the Colombia international, who has made 21 starts this term, in January at this stage.

Lucumi is still admired by Sunderland, but the report adds that their transfer priorities are in defensive midfield and attack.

• Read more: Sunderland make approach to sign La Liga star who was once labelled ‘best in the world’

Regis Le Bris reveals Sunderland’s transfer plan

After the Black Cats splashed the cash in the summer, which included Sunderland outspending fellow promoted side Leeds United and beating them to certain targets, many would assume they have maxed out on what they can spend under the league’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

While Le Bris has not ruled out any January deals, they do have to bear PSR in mind. Incidentally, Sunderland will be bolstered by the return of multiple Africa Cup of Nations players such as Habib Diarra, Chemsdine Talbi, and Bertrand Traore.

With their AFCON contingent set to return in January, they may feel like new signings after having to cope without them for the past few weeks.

But Le Bris is certainly keen to strengthen his squad if the opportunity arises.

He told reporters last week: “The period is a really interesting one. It’s tough, and even with a number of absentees, the level of the squad remains really consistent, which is really positive.

“That shows the depth of the squad and the versatility of three or four of our players, which is really useful for game management. If we can improve and reinforce the squad, we will try to do that. But what we have learned will also be important for the next transfer window.”