Manchester United enters race to sign Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi in crowded transfer battle

Manchester United have thrown their hat into what’s becoming a very crowded ring for Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumi. The Colombian defender, fresh off World Cup duty, is attracting interest from across Europe and beyond, with a release clause that makes him one of the more reasonably priced defensive targets available this summer.

According to Italian outlet Il Resto del Carlino, United have entered the pursuit of Lucumi in July 2026. They’re far from alone. Nottingham Forest and AFC Bournemouth are also circling from the Premier League, while Turkish clubs and Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal have expressed interest of their own.

Lucumi’s contract with Bologna runs until June 2026, which puts the Italian club in a tricky negotiating position. That timeline essentially means Bologna either sell now or risk losing him for nothing. A release clause of approximately €28 million, roughly £24 million, sweetens the deal for potential buyers.

Born on June 26, 1998, the Colombian has been a consistent presence in Bologna’s defense since arriving in August 2022. Before his time in Italy, he racked up 91 appearances for Belgian side Genk, giving him a solid foundation of European football across two different leagues. He has made 123 appearances in Serie A for Bologna.

Colombia’s early exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup has freed up Lucumi’s summer schedule, making him available for negotiations and medical examinations while many of his international peers remain occupied with tournament football.

For Manchester United, the €28 million release clause is particularly notable in the context of today’s transfer market. The clause essentially sets a ceiling on negotiations, removing the kind of protracted back-and-forth that has derailed United transfers in the past.

Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth both offer different but compelling pitches. Then there’s the Al-Hilal factor. Saudi clubs have demonstrated a willingness to offer financial packages that European clubs simply can’t match, which could prove tempting for a player entering the final stretch of his contract.

At 28, Lucumi is old enough to contribute immediately but young enough to provide three or four peak years. With Lucumi’s contract expiring imminently and multiple clubs circling, Bologna has every incentive to accept a deal sooner rather than later.

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