Lucumi proving why Bologna were wise to resist Roma and Sunderland interest

Jhon Lucumi is increasingly a core figure at the centre of that Bologna defence, confirming why they resisted the approaches from Roma and Sunderland over the summer.

The Colombia international will turn 28 next June and is therefore entering the peak of his career.

His performances so far this season have impressed well beyond the goal that helped his team beat Napoli 2-0 at the weekend in Serie A.

There was plenty of appreciation for his talent over the summer, and for a while there was a release clause in his contract.

Roma had shown interest, but without making a decisive step forward, while Sunderland failed to break down the brick wall that Bologna erected around their defender.

It was clear what the club had in mind, that after sacrificing Sam Beukema for the huge offer from Napoli, it wouldn’t have been right to deprive Vincenzo Italiano of another centre-back.

Lucumi’s performances have simply confirmed the wisdom of that decision, as he is increasingly at the centre of their ambitions, but now Bologna need to discuss the contract that expires in June 2027.