Jhon Lucumí given Bologna ‘would consider’ sale pledge after Sunderland move blocked | OneFootball

Bologna chief executive Claudio Fenucci says the club promised Jhon Lucumí they would consider a summer exit after halting a late move last year.

“A year ago, we couldn’t sell him at the end of the transfer window, but we promised him that this year, given a suitable offer, we’d make it happen,” he told Pallone nel 7.

Sunderland had targeted the Colombia centre-back during last summer’s window as they looked to strengthen Régis Le Bris’ squad, but Bologna refused a late sale because there was not enough time to source a replacement.

A departure in this window remains possible only if a suitable bid arrives. Lucumí is under contract and viewed as an important player, so Bologna are not under pressure to accept a cut-price fee.

“The transfer window hasn’t really taken off yet, and if it didn’t for Lucumi either, we’d be happy to keep him,” he added.

Sunderland’s recruitment team continue to assess defensive options, particularly left-sided and left-footed profiles, with Premier League, domestic cup and European commitments increasing the need for depth.

Source: Sunderland Echo