On Monday, Quotidiano Sportivo reported that Sunderland could face a whole world of trouble if Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi uses FIFA’s Article 17 to seek a transfer this summer.
This is because the 27-year-old didn’t inform his club about a desire to leave within 15 days after his final game of last season, which he would’ve had to do so to use the clause. Even then it’s a can of worms which is best left firmly closed.
Il Resto del Carlino have a slightly more positive report for Sunderland today.
Bologna don’t want the prospect of a legal battle and are feeling under pressure to part with a player who clearly fancies a move.
Sunderland’s €30m offer is on the table and the Colombian is keen on the move. Bologna are set to have a meeting with Lucumi’s camp today and things could speed up after that.
Despite the Rossoblu’s stiff stance, they are already intensifying contacts for Union Berlin’s Diogo Leite, who will be a replacement for the South American defender.
This should give hope to Sunderland, with today’s Gazzetta dello Sport also indicating that Bologna are only waiting to sign a replacement before selling Lucumi.