21 Jul 2026 18:32 BST |
4 min read
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Manchester United are exploring a move for Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi – and it could prove to be one of the smartest transfers of the summer.
The Colombia star is coming off a very impressive World Cup. Even though the South Americans disappointingly failed to get past Switzerland in the round of 16, Lucumi was a standout performer and an outside shout for the Team of the Tournament.
The centre-back was a calm, assured presence next to the more adventurous and aggressive Davinson Sanchez and hardly put a foot wrong all summer. Unsurprisingly, suitors are beginning to circle for the 28-year-old.
According to Corriere di Bologna (via Sport Witness), Man Utd are among the clubs to have taken a liking to Lucumi, who was already linked with the Red Devils back in 2024.
They are said to have “made a move” for the defender, although the Italian publication does not elaborate on what exactly this means. What is clear, though, is that the Old Trafford outfit are keeping tabs on the reliable stopper.
Lucumi likely to move this summer
Bologna are in the midst of a busy transfer window. The Serie A side missed out on European qualification last season, which means that several of their most prized possessions could be on the move this summer.
Winger Jonathan Rowe, for example, is being linked with Aston Villa and Chelsea. Lucumi is another player who is likely to look for greener pastures, and he has the club’s word that they will not put obstacles in his way if the right opportunity presents itself.
CEO Claudio Fenucci recently admitted: “A year ago, we couldn’t sell him at the end of the transfer window. But we promised him that this year, if presented with a suitable offer, we’d make it happen. The transfer window hasn’t really taken off yet, and if it didn’t for Lucumi either, we’d be happy to keep him.”
This statement, in conjunction with the fact that Lucumi only has a year left on his contract, means that the Colombia star is probably available for an affordable price. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at a very reasonable €17.5 million.
Lucumi to Man Utd: It makes sense
The links with Man Utd are interesting because strengthening the backline is not an urgent priority. Lisandro Martinez is fully fit and firing – he was named in the World Cup’s Team of the Tournament – and Harry Maguire has extended his contract, while youngsters Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven are looking to nail down starting spots.
The only concern is Matthijs de Ligt and his fitness. The Dutchman missed the World Cup due to a long-term back injury that ultimately required surgery. He is unlikely to be ready in time for the start of the season, but he is already doing individual training at Carrington.
However, with a return to the Champions League on the cards, having adequate depth is imperative. Lucumi, if available for a fee under €30m, could be a market opportunity that is too good to pass up.
According to data analytics firm SciSports, a move to Man Utd would definitely make sense. In terms of current ability, Lucumi would instantly slot into Michael Carrick’s side.
SciSports analyses hundreds of in-game data points and then calculates a SciSkill rating as well as a player’s potential. Lucumi would instantly become Man Utd’s best defender, albeit his SciSkill rating is only marginally better than Martinez and De Ligt’s.
Yoro and Heaven both have eminent potential, so Man Utd should avoid blocking their path to regular football. Ultimately, though, playing in the Champions League requires ready-made quality.
Lucumi would not be a game-changer or ceiling-raiser, but he could be an ideal – and affordable – piece to raise Man Utd’s floor ahead of Carrick’s first full season in charge.
