Cats' pursuit of Lucumi not over as defender weighs up options

Sunderland's opening offer of around £17.4 million may still be enough to secure the transfer of Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi, according to reports.

- by Sport Reporter

The Colombian has emerged as a leading option for the Black Cats as they look to bolster their back line ahead of their upcoming return to Premier League action, and a number of updates have detailed their interest in recent days.

It was understood that Sunderland were facing something of an uphill battle to lure Lucumi to the Stadium of Light - partially because their initial bid was some way short of the £21.7 million Bologna were said to be demanding for their talent, and partially because the player himself would ideally prefer a move to a club with European credentials.

More recently, however, reports from the continent have hinted towards signs of encouragement for the Black Cats.