Bologna chief executive Claudio Fenucci has confirmed the Serie A club will allow centre-back Jhon Lucumí to depart this summer should an appropriate bid arrive, honouring a pledge made to the Colombia international after his move to Sunderland collapsed last year.
Fenucci revealed that officials persuaded the 28-year-old to stay for an additional campaign following the failed English transfer, guaranteeing him a move this window instead. The defender could leave because the club had promised him an exit, Fenucci told Sky Sport Italia. Bologna asked him to stay for another year on the understanding that a suitable proposal this summer would secure his release.
Despite this commitment, Fenucci stressed that Bologna retain full control over any valuation. The chief executive stated they will grant the player his wish only if an acceptable proposal materialises; otherwise he remains at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara.
Expired clause and short contract complicate talks
The defender’s €28m release clause has lapsed, removing a fixed price tag and forcing interested parties to negotiate terms directly with the Emilian side. This development hands Bologna greater flexibility in demanding a fee, though the player’s contractual situation weakens their position.
Lucumí’s agreement expires at the conclusion of the current season. Discussions over an extension have stalled, leaving the Rossoblù facing the prospect of losing the former KRC Genk man without compensation in 2026 unless they sell this transfer window. The timing presents a dilemma for Bologna: selling now prevents a free departure next summer but likely means accepting a reduced fee compared to the previous valuation, particularly with the player publicly granted permission to leave.
Italian giants and United monitoring situation
Juventus and Inter have both been linked with moves for the left-footed centre-back as they seek defensive reinforcements. Manchester United are also reportedly tracking the Colombian, who established himself as a regular starter after arriving from Belgium in 2022 for €8m.
Both Milanese clubs view the 28-year-old as an experienced option to bolster their backlines ahead of European campaigns. United’s interest adds a Premier League dimension to the chase, though any deal would require the English club to meet Bologna’s as-yet-unspecified demands. With his current deal entering its final 12 months and the club publicly committed to facilitating his departure, Lucumí appears destined for a new challenge before the window closes.