Jhon Lucumi agent hints at Premier League move as Tottenham and Sunderland circle

Jhon Lucumi’s agent has strongly hinted the Bologna defender is ready to leave Serie A this summer amid growing Premier League interest from Tottenham and Sunderland.

The Colombia international has once again emerged as one of Bologna’s most attractive assets after another impressive campaign in Italy, and comments from his representative now suggest preparations for a transfer are already underway.

Lucumi was heavily linked with Sunderland last summer, with the newly-promoted side making a formal approach for the defender before Bologna ultimately blocked the transfer.

Now, after Bologna missed out on European qualification, the situation appears to have changed considerably.

Speaking about the 28-year-old’s future, agent Simone Rondanini admitted the player is now seriously considering a new challenge away from Italy.

“Bologna is his home,” Rondanini explained.

“As we know, there were already some significant opportunities last year, but ultimately no agreement was reached.”

The most revealing part of the interview came moments later.

“I believe the boy is now ready for a new challenge, so we’ll carefully analyse the market and see if the conditions are right for everyone this summer.”

That wording has immediately increased expectations around a possible Premier League move.

Tottenham have recently emerged as fresh contenders for Lucumi following uncertainty around several defensive positions in Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.

The Colombian fits many of the characteristics Spurs are looking for — left-footed, aggressive in duels, comfortable defending large spaces and experienced at a high level.

However, Tottenham’s pursuit may now depend heavily on other defensive deals already progressing behind the scenes.

Reports continue linking Spurs strongly with a move for Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, who profiles similarly to Lucumi both stylistically and in age profile.

That could reduce the likelihood of Tottenham aggressively pursuing both players simultaneously.

Unlike last summer, Bologna are believed to be far more willing to negotiate this time around.

The club have already established a pattern of selling key players to Premier League sides in recent windows, with English clubs increasingly viewed as their strongest financial market.

Lucumi’s contract situation also matters.

With only two years remaining on his deal, this summer likely represents Bologna’s best opportunity to maximise his transfer value before his position weakens further.

Another major factor is the upcoming World Cup.

Lucumi remains a key figure for Colombia and strong performances internationally could significantly increase both his market value and the number of clubs entering the race.

That possibility may encourage Bologna to resolve his future sooner rather than risk a bidding war escalating later in the summer.

At the moment, though, the strongest signal has come directly from the player’s camp itself.

For the first time, Lucumi’s representatives are openly talking about a departure as the natural next step in his career.

Lucumi’s future is expected to accelerate after the World Cup as Premier League interest continues growing.

Tottenham’s final decision may depend on other defensive deals, while Sunderland remain firmly in the background after last summer’s failed pursuit.