“Been talking for months” – Director gives Sunderland renewed hope for Jhon Lucumi

In the summer transfer window, the saga involving Jhon Lucumi and Sunderland was heavily covered by Sport Witness.

Despite the Black Cats’ offer and the player’s willingness, a deal didn’t go through. The Italian side held on to the Colombian but couldn’t tie him down to a new deal.

His current contract runs out in the summer of 2027, making his situation still quite uncertain. Even if he has been a regular this season, his future is far from secure.

Now, there is pessimism about his renewal and this can give hope to Sunderland.

Lucumi’s renewal might not happen

Bologna sporting director Giovanni Sartori spoke to the media about the 27-year-old on Wednesday. He was specifically asked about contract renewals involving Lucumi and Riccardo Orsolini.

The Italian indicated that a new deal for the South American can prove difficult. Attempts haven’t led to any rewards yet.

He said – relayed by Tuttomercatoweb: “Can resolving the renewal issue restore peace of mind? We’ve been talking for months. It’s progressing with some, and not with others. I don’t think it’s the cause of the lack of results.”

This suggests that the summer of 2026 can be Bologna’s last chance to earn a good fee from Lucumi’s sale. Further, TMW offer some background into the 27-year-old’s situation.

Sunderland task made easier

The outlet make it clear that Sunderland offered €28m plus a 10% resale fee to Bologna in the summer. This was rejected, as the Rossoblu managed to hold on despite Lucumi’s decision to leave.

Besides, they didn’t want to lose another key player after selling Dan Ndoye and Sam Beukema.

Things are likely to change next summer. The defender is keen on a move to the Premier League – as he was some months ago. Bologna will now sell him to the highest bidder in the summer, with Eivind Helland already signed as a replacement.

If Sunderland now come forward for Lucumi, their task could be easier. The Black Cats had scouted the Colombia international back in October, which could show they’re still interested.