Nottingham Forest lead race for Bologna defender Jhon Lucumí

Nottingham Forest have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí, with the Premier League club ready to capitalise on Juventus' inability to complete a deal.

According to Corriere dello Sport, Lucumí remains expected to leave Bologna this summer after declining multiple offers to extend his contract. With just one year remaining on his current deal beyond this season, the Serie A club are increasingly open to cashing in on one of their most valuable defensive assets.

Juventus had been regarded as Lucumí's preferred destination, but the Turin club are yet to make decisive progress.

The Italian giants reportedly need to complete player sales before they can finance a move, creating an opportunity for Nottingham Forest to step in.

Forest are described as the club "most interested" in securing the Colombia international, while Lucumí has already rejected proposals from clubs in Turkey as he prioritises a move to one of Europe's top leagues.

Como have also made contact with the defender's representatives, but the Premier League is currently viewed as the player's preferred destination should a move to Juventus fail to materialise.

Lucumí has been linked with an exit for more than a year after previously attracting interest from clubs across Europe.

Having rejected a new contract at Bologna, the 28-year-old appears increasingly likely to leave before the transfer window closes.

Earlier this month, his €28 million release clause expired, meaning Bologna are now free to negotiate directly with interested clubs over a transfer fee.

That change gives the Serie A side greater flexibility as they attempt to maximise the value of a player they expect to lose this summer.

Although Nottingham Forest currently appear best placed to complete the signing, Bologna are unlikely to rush negotiations.

Interest from Juventus, Como and other European clubs has strengthened Bologna's position, allowing them to encourage competition for the experienced defender despite the expiration of his release clause.

For Forest, moving quickly could prove decisive if they want to avoid a bidding war later in the window.

Lucumí would bring significant Serie A experience and international pedigree to Nottingham Forest's defence at a time when the club continue strengthening their squad. While Juventus remain interested, their financial constraints have handed Forest a valuable opportunity to move into pole position.

Juventus must create financial room before reviving their pursuit, while Nottingham Forest have an opportunity to accelerate negotiations with Bologna. Unless the Italian club can move quickly, Forest could take advantage and attempt to finalise a deal before further competition develops.