Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner looks dejected after the match
Nottingham Forest have stepped up their search for a new centre-back by submitting an offer for Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi, with the Colombian potentially emerging as an alternative to long-term target Ousmane Diomande.
It has so far been a relatively quiet summer at the City Ground ahead of another Premier League campaign.
Forest’s main additions so far have been Xaver Schlager, who arrived on a free transfer following the end of his RB Leipzig contract, and attacking midfielder Gustavo Sa, signed from Famalicao in a deal worth around €20m (£17m) before joining Olympiacos on loan for the upcoming season.
Heading the other way, Elliot Anderson’s record move to Manchester City has left the Reds with funds to spend, with defensive reinforcements a priority for new boss Oliver Glasner.
Forest had appeared to be closing in on Sporting CP centre-back Ousmane Diomande last week, with negotiations described as advanced and personal terms reportedly agreed.
REUTERS/Pedro Nunes
However, a deal is yet to go through, and now Forest have appeared to have made a move for Lucumi.
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Jhon Lucumi's World Cup
Appearances
Minutes played
Clean sheets
Pass accuracy
Clearances
Interceptions
Tackles won
Aerial duels won
Goals conceded
Tournament finish
Nottingham Forest submit bid to sign Lucumi
According to reports from Italy, relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest have submitted an offer worth €20m (£17m) plus bonuses for the Bologna defender.
The Serie A club are thought to value him at around €25m (£21.5m), with his €28m (£24m) release clause expiring recently.
Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi
However, Forest have a battle on their hands to convince the player to move to the City Ground, though. Lucumi reportedly favours a move to Juventus, even though Forest have actually outbid the Italian giants. They put forward just €17m (£14.5m) bid, which was turned down.
Nevertheless, the 28-year-old’s profile makes Forest’s interest understandable. Lucumi made 29 Serie A appearances for Bologna last season, whereas he started all five games for Colombia at the World Cup, conceding just once in 480 minutes of action.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner during the press conference
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner during the press conference
The left-footed defender could offer composure, recovery pace and experience alongside the likes of Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic.
Diomande may remain Forest’s preferred option, or Glasner may want both, but the fresh proposal for Lucumi shows the club are not prepared to wait indefinitely.
After a subdued start to the window, things could once again become busy at the City Ground in the final weeks of the market.