West Ham United will reportedly look to sign 27-year-old Colombian international Jhon Lucumi from Serie A club Bologna in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Italian outlet Calciomercato, Jhon Lucumi is the subject of interest from West Ham United. The Hammers are eager to bolster their defensive unit by signing a centre-back this year. So, the 27-year-old Bologna centre-back has emerged as a target for the East London outfit, and he will only leave the Serie A club in the summer transfer window.
However, West Ham will not be alone in the battle for the South American defender’s signature, as Manchester City, Sunderland, and Inter Milan are also vying for the Bologna centre-back’s services. Meanwhile, the Serie A club will demand around €15 million to part ways with Lucumi, as he will have entered the final 12 months of his contract this summer.
How has Jhon Lucumi fared in Serie A?
Jhon Lucumi has established himself as one of the most underrated centre-backs in Serie A since joining Bologna from KRC Genk in July 2022. The 27-year-old has become a mainstay at the back for the Rossoblu, making significant period in the last three and a half years.
The Colombian international has made nearly 150 appearances for Bologna thus far while chipping in with two goals and three assists. Meanwhile, Lucumi’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. Premier League outfits, in particular, are keen on signing him, with Manchester City and West Ham United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Premier League move on the horizon?
Manchester City’s interest in Jhon Lucumi makes sense. The Citizens are scouring the market for a centre-back amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term futures of John Stones and Nathan Ake. So, while Pep Guardiola has a stacked central defensive unit, he can do with a new centre-back next season. While Manchester City primarily considered Lucumi for a January move, it will not materialise due to his hamstring injury.
As for West Ham United, Max Kilman faces an uncertain future at the London Stadium amid his links with Crystal Palace. Additionally, Igor Jesus will return to Brighton & Hove Albion after the 2025/26 season ends. So, West Ham must dip into the market for a centre-back this summer, with Lucumi emerging as a viable target.
However, West Ham and Manchester City are not alone in the battle for the Bologna defender’s signature, as Sunderland and Inter Milan are also vying for his services. Meanwhile, the Serie A club will demand around €15 million to part ways with Lucumi, as he will have entered the final 12 months of his contract this summer. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for the 27-year-old Colombian international.