Manchester United are facing a difficult defensive dilemma ahead of the new season. Confronted with a severe personnel crisis, the Old Trafford management have added Jhon Lucumi of Bologna to their list of potential targets and are ready to activate the deal with cash.
A price tag of £21.7 million and an opportunity for the Red Devils.
According to the Corriere di Bologna newspaper, the Serie A club is ready to part ways with their key central defender. Bologna values the Colombian international at £21.7 million. Notably, Manchester United's management appears very open and willing to pay the full amount to quickly finalize the transfer.
Although Juventus had already reached a personal agreement with Lucumi, the Turin club hesitated to pay the transfer fee. This delay from Juve opened up a great opportunity for both Manchester United and Chelsea – teams with ample financial resources and a willingness to pay the full amount.
The root cause stems from a wave of defensive injuries.
Manchester United's urgent moves in the transfer market stem from a very serious squad situation at the back. Centre-back Matthijs de Ligt is expected to be out until the fall after undergoing surgery for a back injury.
Furthermore, Lisandro Martinez faces an uncertain future as he receives close attention from Atletico Madrid. Meanwhile, former captain Harry Maguire is burdened by age and no longer has the fitness to handle a demanding schedule.
Technical profile and perspective from INEOS
Jhon Lucumi has impressed greatly with his intelligent play, excellent ball control, and impressive attacking skills from the back. Possessing a skillful left foot, the Colombian center-back has been a key player in Bologna's defense recently.
However, INEOS has not yet placed Lucumi among its top priority targets. His age and lack of experience in a demanding environment like the Premier League put him behind several other options. Furthermore, the remarkable progress of young talent Ayden Heaven provides the Red Devils' coaching staff with additional options from within the club's resources.