Jhon Lucumi: Man United considering meeting Bologna ace’s asking price | OneFootball

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Manchester United could do with additions at the heart of their defence, given the injury situation affecting several of the club’s top stars.

Matthijs de Ligt underwent back surgery in the summer after he missed the last six months of the previous campaign. The Dutchman is not expected to return before autumn.

Lisandro Martinez suffered an injury in the World Cup final and, while the knock is not serious, the Argentine’s injury record and anger issues have INEOS concerned.

Harry Maguire also remains injury-prone and his ageing legs cannot keep up with United’s packed 25/26 calendar.

Jhon Lucumi on United’s radar

The Red Devils are not actively on the lookout for a new centre-back, but remain open to market opportunities.

One such opportunity has arisen in the form of Jhon Lucumi, with Bologna resigned to losing the Colombian.

They value the 28-year-old at £21.7 million with Corriere di Bologna reporting that the 20-time English league champions are open to paying his asking price.

Juventus have already agreed personal terms with the Colombia international, but they remain reluctant to pay as much.

United ready to pay Bologna’s asking price in full

Chelsea are seen as United’s main competitors, with the Blues also ready to pay the full price if the player chooses to move there.

Bologna are looking to incite a bidding war among the Premier League rivals as they look to earn the highest possible fee.

Jhon Lucumi is a ball-playing defender, and is left-footed. He could serve as Martinez’s replacement, with the World Cup winner linked with a switch to Atletico Madrid.

However, given his age and lack of Premier League experience, INEOS likely have him on the shortlist, but well below in the pecking order.

Ayden Heaven is left-footed and can plug the gap, as he showed last season and in pre-season so far.

The Peoples Person Reliability AssessmentOverall credibility: 4/10Why?

Reported by a source known to push Bologna’s agenda. The player does not fit INEOS’ vision.TPP viewWe believe Bologna are trying to drum up interest in Jhon Lucumi using Manchester United’s name.