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Juventus are interested in signing Jhon Lucumi, but Como have already submitted a bid worth 25 million euros for the defender, an offer that Bologna have accepted. However, Lucumi is reportedly holding out for a move to Juventus instead.
The defender does not view a transfer to Como as a step forward from his current situation at Bologna. As a result, he has delayed accepting their proposal while remaining hopeful that Juventus will approach before the summer transfer window closes.
Juventus prioritising other transfer business
Juventus believe Lucumi has the qualities to become an excellent addition to their squad. However, the club is currently focused on completing other areas of its transfer business and has not yet made a formal move for the defender.
The main reason for the delay is that Juventus currently have an excess of defenders in their squad. Before pursuing any new defensive signings, the Bianconeri must first offload some of their existing players to create space and generate the necessary funds.
Bologna standing firm on valuation
The Bianconeri have already held discussions with Lucumi’s representatives regarding a potential transfer. According to Tuttomercatoweb, Juventus will have to match the 25 million euros Como were prepared to pay to secure the defender’s signature.
Lucumi has less than a season remaining on his current contract, which could ordinarily encourage Bologna to accept a lower transfer fee. However, the club has remained firm in its valuation and has so far refused to lower its asking price, which remains above 20 million euros.
Juventus are keen to complete a deal for the defender, but any move is likely to depend on player sales in the coming weeks. Until the club raises the required funds and reduces the number of defenders already in the squad, Lucumi will have to wait to see whether Juventus can make a concrete offer before the transfer window closes.