Sunderland submits improved £24m bid for Bologna defender Lucumi

Sunderland has made a significant push to strengthen their defense by submitting an improved £24 million (€28 million) bid for Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí, including a 10% sell-on clause, highlighting him as their priority target. Despite Bologna's reluctance to sell Lucumí, who played a key role in their recent Coppa Italia triumph and has made over 90 Serie A appearances, Sunderland remains optimistic as the player is reportedly open to the move and personal terms are not expected to be an issue. The bid matches a recently expired release clause, but Bologna insists they would prefer to keep Lucumí until finding an adequate replacement. Sunderland's defensive concerns were underscored by their recent League Cup exit to Huddersfield and Premier League struggles, prompting the club to seek reinforcements urgently. Lucumí’s agent has expressed disappointment with Bologna’s stance but confirms the player’s desire to move, adding tension to the ongoing transfer saga. Meanwhile, Sunderland continues to integrate new defenders like Nordi Mukiele and Arthur Masuaku, who have yet to fully settle into Premier League action.