Alious
Sunderland’s long-running pursuit of Jhon Lucumi could be back on the table once again, after fresh comments from Bologna sporting director Giovanni Sartori suggested the defender’s contract renewal remains far from resolved.
The Black Cats were heavily linked with the Colombian international during the summer transfer window, with reports at the time claiming Sunderland had tabled a huge bid and that Lucumi himself was open to making the move.
However, despite Sunderland’s serious approach and the player’s apparent willingness, Bologna stood firm and refused to let one of their key defenders leave.
Lucumi renewal still uncertain
Although Lucumi has remained a regular figure for Bologna this season, his long-term future in Italy is still unclear.
His current contract runs until the summer of 2027, but the club have been attempting to secure an improved deal — and the latest update suggests progress has been slow, if not completely stalled.
Speaking on Wednesday, Sartori was questioned directly about renewal talks involving Lucumi and fellow Bologna star Riccardo Orsolini.
And his response hinted that not all negotiations are going smoothly.
> “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.”
Those words have immediately fueled speculation that Lucumi may not sign a new contract at all — a situation that could dramatically benefit Sunderland.
Sunderland’s previous offer revealed
Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb also revisited the background of Sunderland’s previous attempt, claiming the Championship side had offered an eye-catching €28 million plus a 10% resale clause for the defender.
That proposal was rejected, with Bologna determined not to lose another major player after already allowing key figures such as Dan Ndoye and Sam Beukema to depart.
Despite Lucumi reportedly wanting out, Bologna managed to hold onto him.
Summer 2026 could be decisive
With renewal talks still dragging on, the report suggests Bologna may soon face a difficult decision.
If Lucumi refuses to extend his deal, then summer 2026 could represent Bologna’s final opportunity to cash in for a major fee, before his contract begins entering a more dangerous stage.
It is also claimed the defender remains keen on a move to the Premier League, just as he was during Sunderland’s summer approach.
Bologna are already believed to be preparing for life without him too, having signed Eivind Helland as a potential replacement.
Sunderland could have an easier route this time
If Sunderland decide to revive their interest, the pathway may now be far clearer than it was last summer.
Not only is Bologna’s stance expected to soften if renewal talks collapse, but Sunderland have also continued tracking Lucumi — with reports stating the club scouted the defender again back in October.
That ongoing monitoring could be a strong sign that the Black Cats haven’t given up, and that Lucumi remains firmly on their radar ahead of another possible summer swoop.
Alious
