Jhon Lucumí has chosen Juventus over bigger money and Premier League interest, but the move is not over the line yet. He has agreed personal terms on a five-year deal worth €2.5m a season plus bonuses, while Bologna are still holding out for a fee above Juventus's opening €17m bid. Manchester United, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest have all been part of the picture, but Lucumí has kept Juventus at the top of his wishlist.
Juventus are the clear preference
That preference matters because it narrows the transfer to one issue, the fee. One outlet has reported a €24m valuation with €3m in add-ons, while another says Bologna want a minimum of €25m after Lucumí's €28m release clause expired in mid-July. However it is framed, the gap is still there.
Lucumí's form gives Bologna a decent argument for standing firm. He has averaged a 7.0 rating across his last five curated matches, with three 7.2 or better performances, and his season average sits at 6.94. Those are not numbers that scream desperation to sell.
Bologna still hold the leverage
Bologna's position is helped by the contract situation. Lucumí's deal is down to its final 10 months, but that has not forced a quick compromise yet. Juventus's last five league results, D-L-W-D-D, also show why they are looking to add another defender rather than wait around.
The Premier League interest is real, but it has not shaken Lucumí's stance. Nottingham Forest reportedly put bigger wages on the table and it did not change his mind, which is why Juventus remain the club to beat. The only question now is whether Bologna soften on price before the situation drags on any longer.
Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 4 outlets. How we work →
