Sunderland are weighing up a January move for a highly rated defender described as “unreal,” with a potential £12m bid being considered.
Black Cats planning winter reinforcements
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League has gone better than many expected. The Black Cats sit just three points outside the Champions League spots and hold a comfortable 10-point cushion above the relegation zone. Still, with only 15 games played, Regis Le Bris knows there’s plenty of work ahead, and reinforcements in January could help cement their top-flight status—or even fuel a surprise push for Europe.
Recent fixtures against Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City have exposed defensive vulnerabilities. Nine of Sunderland’s 17 league goals conceded have come in their last five outings, including a bruising 3-0 loss to Manchester City. It’s clear a new centre-back is high on the club’s mid-season agenda.
Sunderland ready to revisit Lucumí deal
According to Calciomercato (via Sport Witness), Sunderland remain interested in Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí, having previously lodged a £24m offer in the summer. With their interest still alive, the Premier League newcomers could return with a cut-price offer of around £12m this January.
Lucumí’s contract runs until 2027, but Bologna’s struggles to secure an extension have cast uncertainty over his long-term future, opening the door for clubs ready to move quickly.
A potential bargain for a top-class defender
Securing Lucumí for half of Sunderland’s original bid would represent major value, especially considering his reputation in Italy. The Colombian defender has earned praise for his consistent performances, with journalist Ethan Todd labelling him “unreal.”
A mainstay for Colombia as well, Lucumí boasts 34 international caps and was recently part of a clean-sheet win over Australia. His steady distribution, ball control, and strong recoveries have set him apart statistically from many Serie A centre-backs over the past year.
Sunderland already look equipped to steer well clear of relegation, but adding Lucumí in January would only strengthen their position—and could be a decisive signing in their impressive Premier League campaign.