Sunderland submitted a formal offer to sign Colombian defender Jhon Lucumí from Bologna before his eventual move to Juventus, according to the player's agent Simone Rondanini.
The 28-year-old attracted interest from several European clubs, including Atlético Madrid, Barcelona and Napoli.
However, Sunderland were among the few clubs to make a concrete proposal before Lucumí completed his move to Turin in August 2026.
Sunderland submitted formal offer for Lucumí
Speaking to Spanish newspaper AS, Rondanini confirmed that Sunderland had attempted to sign his client.
"We had a formal offer from Sunderland, but it didn't materialise either because the club didn't want to sell," he explained.
The Black Cats pursued the defender following their promotion to the Premier League in May 2025.
Despite their interest, Bologna refused to sanction his departure, leaving Sunderland unable to complete the signing.
Lucumí subsequently remained in Italy for another season before securing his move to Juventus.
Atlético Madrid interest complicated by passport issues
Rondanini also revealed that Atlético Madrid had explored signing Lucumí over two consecutive summers.
The Spanish club came particularly close in 2024, but difficulties involving non-EU player registration prevented negotiations from progressing.
Conor Gallagher's arrival further complicated Atlético's plans, according to the agent.
Lucumí was interested in the Spanish club's project, but the proposed move never materialised.
Juventus eventually secured Colombian defender
Rondanini stressed that interest from major clubs did not always result in formal proposals.
"There was interest and calls from those clubs, but it never materialised into a firm offer on the table," Rondanini said.
Barcelona and Napoli were among the clubs to make enquiries, although Sunderland's approach went further.
Juventus eventually secured Lucumí on 17 August 2026, agreeing a permanent transfer worth €19.5million plus additional costs and potential bonuses.
The defender signed a contract running until June 2030.
Key Points
- Sunderland submitted a formal offer for Lucumí.
- Bologna refused to sell the Colombian defender.
- Atlético Madrid encountered non-EU registration difficulties.
- Barcelona and Napoli also expressed interest.
- Juventus signed Lucumí in August 2026.
What's Next?
Lucumí is now continuing his career at Juventus, ending Sunderland's opportunity to sign him from Bologna.
Rondanini's revelations nevertheless underline how seriously the Black Cats pursued defensive reinforcements after returning to the Premier League.
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