Earlier this month, Il Resto del Carlino reported Manchester City’s strong interest in Bologna’s Jhon Lucumi. Sunderland tried to sign the defender in the summer, and now West Ham are also in the race for him.
The Colombian is unlikely to sign a new deal at Bologna. His current contract expires in 2027, which makes 2026 the right time to sell him.
Sunderland were keen on the player in the summer, but missed the cut-off date for his exit clause. The Italian club managed to stand firm and tried to renew his stay beyond 2027. Those efforts haven’t led to anything and Lucumi is now attracting further attention.
Calciomercato IT take a close look at the 27-year-old, who is currently injured.
For this reason, they have ruled out a January exit, though the outlet notes that Manchester City will face a difficult task in signing him. There is the expectation of high competition for the Citizens – ‘from West Ham to Sunderland’ and Inter Milan.
€15m would be a bargain for Sunderland or West Ham
The outlet note that a fee of €15m can prove enough for a summer deal. This is largely because of the contract situation, with the player seeking a new destination once again.
There is also an indication that as well as Manchester City, West Ham and Sunderland, other English clubs can also come forward.
This would be quite convenient for Lucumi’s entourage. They had been desperate for a transfer last summer, giving an interview explaining their stance.
Sunderland were encouraged by the defender wanting a move, and his representatives feeling the same. However, they simply weren’t able to get Bologna to bend.
Should it be correct that Lucumi is available for €15m in the summer window then that would be a great opportunity for multiple Premier League clubs. Manchester City may have moved on by then, with defenders back from injury, but Sunderland are likely to try again. West Ham moving forward will depend on the Hammers avoiding relegation.
