Juventus Target Jhon Lucumí as Defender Rejects Premier League Offers

Juventus have moved to the front of the queue for Jhon Lucumí, striking an agreement in principle with the Bologna centre-back despite firm interest from England.

The Colombian has made it clear where he wants to go. According to Tuttosport, Lucumí has kept Juventus at the top of his wishlist even after concrete advances from Nottingham Forest and exploratory contacts from Chelsea and Manchester United. The Premier League could offer more money. It could not offer what he wants most.

Lucumí has shaken hands on personal terms with the Bianconeri: a five-year contract worth €2.5 million per season plus bonuses. Forest were in a position to put roughly €1 million more net on the table every year, but the defender has chosen stage over salary. The pull of a bigger club, European football and the chance to stay in Serie A has outweighed the financial gap.

For Juventus, it is a significant win in the first phase of the battle. For Lucumí, it is a statement about ambition.

Spalletti’s priority, Bologna’s dilemma

The spotlight now turns to Bologna’s stance. Luciano Spalletti identified Lucumí as a priority after his commanding World Cup displays, where the defender’s authority and composure included a standout job in shutting down Cristiano Ronaldo. That tournament pushed him firmly onto Juventus’ radar; Spalletti has not let go since.

Talks with the Rossoblù are already under way. This is where the deal becomes complicated.

Bologna value Lucumí at a minimum of €25 million after his €28 million release clause expired in mid-July. The clause is gone, but the benchmark remains. They know what he is worth to them: he is their defensive leader, the anchor of Thiago Motta’s back line, the reference point in the dressing room.

Time, though, is not on their side. Lucumí is into the final 10 months of his contract. Push too hard now and Bologna risk watching their cornerstone walk away for nothing next summer. So they try to hold the line at €25 million, fully aware that every passing week strengthens Juventus’ hand.

Juventus, with the player already won over and personal terms agreed, can afford to be patient. Bologna, with a key asset running down his deal, cannot. One club holds the will of the player; the other holds his registration. The gap between €25 million and what Juventus are prepared to pay will decide how long this standoff lasts.

For Lucumí, the choice has already been made. The next move belongs to Bologna.