Lucumi agent urges Bologna to reconsider Sunderland rejection before September 1 deadline

BOLOGNA, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 28: Jhon Lucumi of Bologna reacts after receiving a red card during the Serie A match between Bologna and Atalanta at Stadio Renato Dall’Ara on September 28, 2024 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Jhon Lucumi’s agent has publicly urged Bologna to ‘reflect’ on the Sunderland offer, after the club warned ‘the timing was not right’ and the defender will remain.

The negotiations have been going on for a while and found no breakthrough, as the Rossoblu are eager to keep hold of their top talents, having already sold Dan Ndoye and Sam Beukema.

Bologna CEO Claudio Fenucci told Il Resto del Carlino newspaper that the intention was to reject any more Sunderland proposals.

“Jhon had the aspiration to leave, which is natural, but unfortunately the timing of the offer was not right, otherwise we could’ve sorted something out for him and at that point hold on to Sam.

“We do not decide the timing of the transfer market. As of today, there is no chance of replacing him adequately, so Jhon will remain with us.”

Lucumi pushing to leave Bologna

Agent Simone Rondaini therefore spoke to transfer pundit Fabrizio Romano and gave the following statement.

“I carefully read the words of the CEO of Bologna, whom I respect a lot, as well as the club that has accompanied Jhon in these wonderful years,” said Lucumi’s agent.

“It’s natural to feel a little disappointment, because our relationship with the club has always been human. From the beginning, our project was linked to a stay of two or three years, recognising in Jhon a constantly growing player.

“Last year we were asked to stay and we did so with great availability. This year, however, since the beginning of the season, the message has always been clear on both sides: if the right offer had arrived, Jhon would have had the possibility of a transfer.

“I therefore hope that on the part of Bologna there can be a reflection that allows us to find a balanced and positive solution for everyone.

“I understand the importance of the club and the player, and I only expect that our request can also be understood.”

Lucumi was named in Vincenzo Italiano’s squad for the opening Serie A match of the season against Roma, but it remains to be seen if he will actually play.