Sky Sports: Sunderland will not reignite interest in £24m transfer target

Sunderland Step Away from Lucumi Pursuit as Defensive Plans Shift

Transfer Focus Turns Elsewhere

Sunderland appear to have closed the door on one of their long-standing defensive pursuits, with Sky Sports News reporting that “Sunderland will not be resurrecting their interest in Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi in the January transfer window.” Earlier speculation in Italy hinted that the Black Cats might circle back for the 27-year-old Colombia international, yet those suggestions now seem wide of the mark.

The club had previously tested Bologna’s resolve with a £24 million offer, but “the bid was rejected by the Italian side.” Rather than return with an improved approach, Sunderland adjusted their strategy following the recent arrivals of Nordi Mukiele and Lutsharel Geertruida, two signings that have clearly satisfied the club’s desire for athletic, versatile defensive options.

Photo: IMAGO

Shift in Recruitment Philosophy

This decision hints at a subtle evolution in planning. Rather than chasing previously unattainable targets, Sunderland appear intent on reinforcing through value and adaptability. The move to step away from Lucumi may not indicate a lack of ambition, but rather a more selective stance. One source close to the discussions suggested, “Sunderland feel their defensive business is already complete.”

Window Strategy Now Built on Stability

In past years, Sunderland might have persisted into January hoping to wear Bologna down. Now, there is a refreshing sense of restraint. Signing two capable defenders in the summer has removed the need for desperation. If anything, refusing to enter a drawn-out saga may be a statement in itself.

Fans Can Expect Activity Elsewhere

Rather than centre-back, attention may now shift to midfield stability or attacking depth. If Sunderland are to strengthen again in January, it will likely be an opportunistic move rather than another headline chase. Lucumi may remain admired, but admiration alone no longer drives decision making at the Stadium of Light.

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Speaking as a Sunderland fan, this feels like one of those moments where you want to be ambitious but sensible at the same time. Yes, Lucumi would have been exciting, but spending big does not always equal progress. We have done the “splash the cash and hope” routine before, and it rarely ended well. Mukiele and Geertruida already look like strong additions, and if they settle quickly, no one will care we moved on from Lucumi.

That said, £24 million is not a small bid, so it shows the club are willing to go big when they truly believe someone is worth it. The refusal to chase Bologna into a bidding war tells me we are operating with more discipline. What I hope now is that the budget saved here goes into another midfielder or someone who can add goals from wide.

Lucumi can be one for later if things change, football always has a way of circling back to old names. For now, I am happier seeing Sunderland act like a club that finally knows what it wants.