Tottenham-linked Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi could be the subject of an official bid from newly-promoted Sunderland
Tottenham Hotspur may have to move quickly to seal a move for their primary defensive targets of the summer transfer window.
With Cristian Romero’s future uncertain at White Hart Lane, Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi has emerged as a target for Spurs. The North Londoners signed youngster Kota Takai from J-League club Kawasaki Frontale last week but remain in the market for an experienced, matured centre-back. And Jhon Lucumi fits that bill perfectly.
The Colombian was one of Bologna’s standout performers in the previous campaign. He was a rock at the back for the Serie A side, delivering a series of fantastic displays both in the league and the Champions League. Despite Bologna enduring a topsy-turvy season, the 27-year-old enhanced his reputation further across the European continent with his classy performances.
Therefore, it isn’t surprising that Lucumi has become a coveted commodity in this summer transfer window.
Sunderland set to make formal bid for the Bologna star
Now, according to transfer news guru Fabrizio Romano on X, newly-promoted Sunderland are preparing an opening official bid for Lucumi. Bologna want to keep their star defender, but the Black Cats have made contact with them in the last 24 hours over a potential swoop.
Interestingly, the Colombia international had a release clause of €28m in his contract until July 10th. Now that the deadline for his release clause has passed, Sunderland or any of his suitors have to meet the Serie A club’s new valuation of the defender. It is not yet clear what is Lucumi’s valuation as Bologna do not want to let him go this summer.
This means Tottenham are in a race against time to sign the Cali-born defensive rock due to Sunderland’s decision to prepare an official bid. The Black Cats are planning for their first Premier League campaign after eight years away and want to bolster their defensive ranks. They have set their sights on Lucumi to add some much-needed physicality and quality in defence ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
What should Tottenham do?
As Atletico Madrid have cooled their interest in Romero of late, the Argentinean’s continuity at Spurs seems realistic ahead of the upcoming campaign. If he stays, Romero and Van de Ven will certainly keep their place in the first XI under Thomas Frank.
Frank will be concerned about Romero and Van de Ven’s fitness issues, though. And with Radu Dragusin still set to be out for a few more months, it makes sense to have quality back-up options like Kevin Danso in the squad. Needless to say, the Lilywhites will compete in the Champions League this term, which means it would do no harm to have extra options in various areas of the squad.
Keeping that in mind, Tottenham must enter the race for Lucumi’s signature.
