Bologna ‘to identify’ replacement for Sunderland target Jhon Lucumi | OneFootball

Sunderland’s pursuit of Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi may have fresh momentum, with Corriere dello Sport reporting the Italians are already identifying potential replacements.

The Black Cats were said to have stepped up their interest before their return to the Premier League, with suggestions an official bid was lodged. Bologna rejected it at the time, saying a replacement was not in place and the conditions were not right.

“I've always said we'd prefer to keep everyone, even though we know that in reality, certain offers can be tough, especially if the Premier League comes knocking,” said chairman Claudio Fenucci, speaking to Il Resto del Carlino.

The report adds there is acceptance a parting of ways is likely this summer, and that sporting director Giovanni Sartori is tracking Fluminense’s Juan Pablo Freytes and Union Saint-Gilloise’s Fedde Leysen.

It also names Sunderland as the only suitor for Lucumi. The Colombia international is said to be frustrated by last summer’s collapse and keen on a dream move to the Premier League, while his World Cup involvement in North America is described as likely to draw major attention and make a departure from the Renato Dall'Ara inevitable.

Source: Sunderland Echo