Manchester United have reportedly made an inquiry to Bologna over centre-back Jhon Lucumi, with the Serie A side said to be seeking around £17 million for the defender.
According to TEAMtalk, citing Tuttomercatoweb, United have made enquiries about Lucumi’s availability. The report adds that Atletico Madrid have also made enquiries about the Bologna player.
Centre-back has been an issue for United after seven different players filled those positions during the campaign, with injuries affecting a number of members of the squad. TEAMtalk also reported that Lisandro Martinez managed 10 appearances in all competitions during the term.
A reported option for United
Lucumi is described in the report as a highly reliable, left-footed defender. Bologna are said to want to maximise the fee they receive should he leave, with an asking price of around £17 million reported, although that figure could rise.
The report previously linked United with several centre-backs, including Gleison Bremer, Jean-Clair Todibo and Leny Yoro. Lucumi’s situation has now emerged as another possible route for the club as it assesses defensive options.
Potential impact on Tottenham’s plans
Separate reporting from Goal says Chelsea are monitoring Lucumi. TEAMtalk’s report also outlined the possible effect of a United move on Tottenham Hotspur, who have been linked with Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori.
Lucumi and Calafiori are described as Bologna’s current centre-back pairing, and the report suggests it would be unlikely for both players to be sold in the same window. A United deal for Lucumi could therefore affect Tottenham’s pursuit of Calafiori, while it could also reduce United’s need to pursue Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven.
It remains to be seen whether United will follow their reported inquiry with a formal offer, but Bologna’s reported valuation has placed Lucumi among the defensive options under consideration.