Xhaka saga repeats itself as Sunderland look to strike Lucumi deal
Sunderland have been linked with a move to sign Jhon Lucumi from Bologna.
Granit Xhaka looks set to become the Black Cats’ seventh signing of the summer after an agreement was reached with Leverkusen, and his addition will massively improve their midfield options.
However, Sunderland still need to strengthen their defensive lineup ahead of their return to the Premier League, amid links to Lucumi.
The Bologna defender has been heavily linked with a move to Sunderland, with yet another update emerging on his future at the Serie A side.
Bologna reluctant to let Lucumi leave
Sunderland have made their intentions clear with Lucumi; they want to bring him to the Stadium of Light ahead of their return to the Premier League.
However, according to Colombia AS (29 July), the Serie A side are not willing to let him go, in a scenario that seems all too familiar to that of Xhaka just a few days ago.
| Jhon Lucumi’s 2024/25 Serie A statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 32 |
| Clean sheets | 10 |
| Tackles per game | 1.7 |
| Clearances | 2.6 |
| Total duels won | 3.9 (60%) |
| Dribbled past per game | 0.4 |
Erik ten Hag seemed to rule out any possibility of Xhaka leaving, approximately 24 hours before an agreement was reached.
Sunderland are still pushing to sign the Colombian defender, and it may only be a matter of time until a resolution is found between all parties, with Lucumi seemingly keen on the idea of playing at the top level in England.
Lucumi would be a big addition for Sunderland
Lucumi has plenty of experience at 27 years old and was one of the best-performing centre-backs in the Serie A last season.
It’s clear that Sunderland need more quality in defence, and the 27-year-old would certainly provide that.
This deal seems like it will be one that will get over the line, with the Black Cats certainly keen on turning the transfer into a reality.
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