The future of Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi continues to be up in the air and this has given Chelsea a chance at a move.
Sport Witness have regularly covered how the centre-back is expected to leave the Italian side this summer. After Bologna rejected Sunderland’s offer last year, they have failed to tie him down to a new contract.
With his current deal running out in 2027, the Rossoblu are desperate to sell him. A host of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Nottingham Forest, have been mentioned as suitors and are competing with Juventus for Lucumi’s signature.
The Old Lady have had an initial offer rejected and Chelsea are now in the picture for his signature.
Blues competing with Juve
Quotidiano Sportivo report new contacts have taken place between the Old Lady and Lucumi’s entourage. The Italian giants wanted confirmation that he wants to join them and have received a positive response.
Chelsea are now firmly in the race. The Blues are ‘in second place’ for his signature, even if there are no signs they have made any formal contact yet.
The outlet adds more details, clarifying that Lucumi prefers a move to Turin right now. If the Bianconeri fail to make the right offer, he would consider a move to Stamford Bridge. He is seeking a new chapter in his career and has been interested in a move to England too.
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As things stand, Bologna demand a base price of €25m for the Colombian. Juve have tried to offer Fabio Miretti and Juan Cabal as part of the move but this approach hasn’t been acceptable to Bologna.
Our take: Situation likely to evolve further
Juventus, for now, are relying on Bologna’s desperation to sell to sign Lucumi. They probably feel the longer they wait, the likelier they are to get a favourable deal.
Their previous offer wasn’t enough and despite new contact, they’ve not made a renewed bid. Chelsea clearly have a big transfer opportunity.
The 28-year-old has been one of the most reliable defenders in Serie A in recent years. He has now also played in the Champions League and Europa League, winning the Coppa Italia too.
The Blues need a centre-back, especially with Benoit Badiashile likely heading out. Lucumi would be a clear upgrade and will not cost much.