On Tuesday, Gianluca Di Marzio reported Sunderland could wait for Jhon Lucumí’s clause to expire to make an approach, and that expiry has now happened.
The Colombia international’s contract expires in 2026 and Sunderland’s interest is also discussed in his home country.
Antena2 report Sunderland are willing to make an offer to sign the defender despite the initial difficulties in negotiations.
It’s claimed the Black Cats, or any other club keen on signing the centre-back, will have to offer €22m. The Serie A side intend to offer a new contract to the 27-year-old and if he accepts it, the price will be even higher.
As well as Sunderland, other English clubs are interested, but none have agreed terms yet. According to Antena2, his future is expected to be sorted out in the coming days.
Despite Sunderland’s effort to sign the player, he isn’t keen on joining them this summer.
That’s according to Il Resto del Carlino, relayed by 1000 Cuori Rossoblu, who report he has already said no to AFC Bournemouth.
Lucumí wants to leave Bologna for a team that can offer him Champions League football and therefore, he’s rejected Régis Le Bris’ side.
Despite Sunderland’s ambitious project and good offer, Lucumí said no to them as the Black Cats ‘don’t warm the player’s heart’.
Aston Villa are also credited with interest, but they just missed out on Champions League football.