Sunderland have shaken up Bologna’s preparations for the new Serie A campaign by tabling a €28m offer for Jhon Lucumí. The bid, matching the amount of the Colombian’s now-expired release clause, has “ruined the club’s peace of mind” according to Il Resto del Carlino.
The 27-year-old centre-back is open to joining the newly promoted Premier League side, but Bologna have already rejected the proposal as they attempt to protect their defensive core. Having lost Sam Beukema to Napoli earlier in the summer, the Rossoblù are determined not to let another first-team regular depart.
With Sunderland keen to strengthen before the Premier League season gathers pace, and Bologna reeling from a 4–2 pre-season defeat to OFI Crete, the next few days could prove decisive.
Why Bologna Are Resisting Sunderland’s Push
Despite signing Martin Vitík and Torbjørn Heggem, Bologna’s coaching staff do not want to throw new arrivals straight into the starting XI for the opening weeks of Serie A. Lucumí has been a reliable figure in defence, and losing him would destabilise the squad further.
The €28m bid reflects Sunderland’s intent — matching the defender’s former release clause. Yet Bologna view the timing as destabilising and believe Lucumí is too important to sell this late in the window.
Player Quote Section
Lucumí’s own stance has become the focal point of the saga, with reports suggesting he is intrigued by the move.
“Sunderland’s bid has ruined Bologna’s peace of mind, just days before the season opener.” — Il Resto del Carlino
Whether the Colombian pushes to force Bologna’s hand will likely dictate the outcome.
Jhon Lucumí – 2024/25 Season Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Jhon Lucumí |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 37 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Clean Sheets | 14 |
| Pass Accuracy | 89% |
source: footystats.org – 19 August 2025
Lucumí featured in 37 games last season, recording 14 clean sheets and averaging close to 90% passing accuracy. His calmness on the ball and ability to marshal the back line make him one of Bologna’s most reliable defenders.
Analyst Verdict
From Sunderland’s perspective, Lucumí represents a statement signing. At 27, he has both Serie A experience and the physical profile suited to Premier League football. Adding him would give the Black Cats a ready-made leader in defence as they adjust to top-flight intensity.
For Bologna, however, his exit would be a disaster. Already weakened by Beukema’s departure, losing Lucumí before the season even begins would leave them scrambling. The fact that the offer matched the expired clause only adds to the sense of frustration.
Key Insights
- Sunderland have made a €28m bid for Lucumí.
- Bologna have rejected the offer, unsettled by the timing.
- The player is open to the Premier League move.
- Bologna reluctant to lose another centre-back after Beukema’s exit.
- Next few days could prove decisive as Sunderland consider a second bid.
What’s Next
Talks are expected to continue behind the scenes, with Sunderland weighing up whether to raise their proposal. Given Lucumí’s interest in the switch, pressure could mount on Bologna if the player makes his stance public.
The Rossoblù will meanwhile accelerate their search for defensive cover, knowing that the transfer deadline is fast approaching. If they can secure a replacement, resistance to Sunderland’s approach may weaken.
Should Sunderland push again for Lucumí — or risk missing out on a proven Serie A defender?
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