Manchester United have been fancied to sign Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi ahead of Juventus this summer, according to Corriere dello Sport.
The Red Devils recently suffered an untimely setback. Lisandro Martinez sustained an injury during the first half of the World Cup final for Argentina against Spain.
United have yet to provide an update on the central defender, but given his worrying injury record, the 28-year-old could be sidelined for some period of time.
Amidst this, Corriere dello Sport have brought United into the picture for Lucumi.
The Italian publication cite that Lucumi’s £24 million release clause recently expired. Juventus tried to sign him for £15.4m, but the proposal was swiftly turned down.
The Bianconeri were looking to capitalise on the player’s contract, which expires in June next year, but Bologna are unlikely to provide any discount for a transfer.
Corriere dello Sport add that Juventus have growing fears of competition from Manchester United, who could trump them to the left-footed star with a higher offer.
Lucumi would provide good cover for Martinez
With Martinez’s setback, the Red Devils have just one specialist left-footed centre-back in Ayden Heaven.
Luke Shaw can occupy the position, but that would mean one of Noussair Mazraoui or Patrick Dorgu may have to start from the left-back role. Harry Amass has no senior experience.
United may want to assess Martinez’s condition in the coming days. If he is sidelined for the early part of the new season, the club could pursue another left-footed centre-back.
Lucumi would provide good cover for the Argentine. The Bologna man is a good ball-playing centre-back and completed 90 percent of his passes in Serie A last term with an average of four long balls.
The 28-year-old won almost 60 percent of his duels with five recoveries and four clearances per game.
The Colombian has the aerial and physical presence to suit the Premier League.
His £24m clause may have expired, but Bologna could be willing to sell him for a similar package, given he could negotiate a free transfer to a foreign club as early as January next year.
Juventus’ £15.4m offer did not prove sufficient to persuade them. If United were to pay £20m upfront with £4m in add-ons, they should stand a good chance of recruiting Lucumi.
Stats from Sofascore