Bournemouth join race for Jhon Lucumi after Sunderland’s failed attempt

Bournemouth have emerged as contenders to sign Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi, with the Colombian centre-back once again attracting Premier League interest after Sunderland failed to secure his signature last summer.

Lucumi appears increasingly likely to leave Bologna before the start of the 2026/27 campaign. The 27-year-old has reportedly rejected attempts to extend his contract, which currently runs until June 2027, placing the Italian side under pressure to consider offers this summer.

According to reports from Italy, Bournemouth have stepped up their interest in recent hours as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season.

Interest in Lucumi is not new. Sunderland made a determined effort to sign the defender last year and even submitted a formal offer, with reports at the time suggesting the player was open to the move.

However, Bologna refused to sanction a sale despite indications from Lucumi's camp that he was seeking a new challenge.

Twelve months later, the situation has shifted considerably. With no contract extension agreed, Bologna now risk seeing the defender's market value decline as he moves closer to the final year of his deal.

Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport reports that Juventus are also monitoring developments, while separate reports indicate Bournemouth have made their move to position themselves among the leading contenders.

A key factor in the situation is Lucumi's €28m release clause, which remains active until mid-July.

That clause was available last summer too, but Sunderland were unable to complete a deal before the relevant deadline passed.

Interestingly, reports from Italy suggest Bologna could now be willing to negotiate a fee closer to €20m despite the higher release clause figure. That potential discount may explain why interest is beginning to intensify across Europe.

Having covered Bournemouth's recruitment strategy closely in recent windows, the club have consistently targeted players entering their peak years who can immediately improve the starting XI while retaining resale value.

Lucumi fits that profile well.

One reason Bournemouth's interest makes sense is the need to reinforce central defence following Marcos Senesi's reported move to Tottenham.

Lucumi arrives with significant experience in Serie A and international football with Colombia, offering both leadership and athleticism at the back.

While adaptation to the Premier League is never guaranteed, the Colombian has already demonstrated the qualities required to compete at a high level in one of Europe's strongest leagues.

However, much could depend on the upcoming World Cup.

A strong tournament with Colombia would likely attract additional suitors and strengthen Bologna's negotiating position, potentially increasing competition for Bournemouth.

The next few weeks could prove decisive. Bournemouth appear keen to move quickly before Lucumi's World Cup involvement potentially increases both his profile and valuation.

Bologna must also decide whether to cash in this summer or risk seeing the defender enter the final year of his contract. With Juventus and other clubs keeping a close watch on developments, the battle for Lucumi may only just be beginning.

Can Bournemouth win the race for Jhon Lucumi, or will growing interest from across Europe complicate their pursuit?