Sunderland ‘close to agreement’ for Geoffrey Kondogbia as Jhon Lucumi ‘ready for new challenge’ | OneFootball

Sunderland are reported by MediaFoot to be ‘close to an agreement’ to sign Marseille midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia, as they plan summer reinforcements after Europa League qualification.

The 33-year-old Central African Republic international is viewed as adding experience to Regis Le Bris’ squad.

Le Bris has said Sunderland aim to build on their foundations and add two, three or four players to strengthen the starting XI and the core group.

Marseille are understood to be prepared to move on some of their higher earners, and Kondogbia fits Sunderland’s brief as preparations for August’s European campaign continue.

Sunderland’s interest in Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi has also resurfaced, with reports in Italy suggesting the Colombia international could head to the Premier League this summer. Tottenham have been linked, although a move for Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi could pause any pursuit.

Lucumi is set to enter the final year of his Bologna contract amid suggestions his spell may be ending after they missed out on Europe.

The defender’s agent, Simone Rondanini, said: “Bologna is his home. As we know, there were already some significant opportunities last year, but ultimately no agreement was reached. I believe the boy is now ready for a new challenge, so we’ll carefully analyse the market and see if the conditions are right for everyone this summer.”

He told Tuttomercatoweb.

Source: Sunderland Echo