The summer transfer window is about to get seriously interesting in Turin. Juventus, a club that has spent much of the last eighteen months trying to...
The summer transfer window is about to get seriously interesting in Turin. Juventus, a club that has spent much of the last eighteen months trying to reshuffle their defensive pack, have now been handed a clear price tag for Bologna centre back Jhon Lucumi. The Colombian defender has emerged as a serious target for the Bianconeri, but if they want him, they will have to meet Bologna's demands. And as ever with the Rossoblu, they drive a hard bargain.According to sources speaking to GoalZaza, the asking price for Lucumi sits at a figure that is not likely to make Juventus blink, but it is also not the kind of fee that allows for much haggling. Bologna know they have a player who can step into a back three or a back four with genuine comfort. Lucumi is quick across the ground, reads the game well, and has the composure to play out from the back. In a market where centre halves with true tactical flexibility are gold dust, Bologna are holding firm.What makes this story even more intriguing is the context of the negotiations. Juventus are not just chasing Lucumi in isolation. They are also in talks regarding Bologna's Emil Holm and have had their eye on Joao Mario for some time. This is a club attempting to build a relationship with one of Serie A's most shrewd operators. You have to wonder: is this a targeted rebuild, or are Juventus simply casting a wide net in the hope that something sticks The answer probably lies somewhere in between.For Bologna, the strategy is clear. They will not be bullied into selling their best assets on the cheap. They have built a squad capable of mixing it with the top sides, and they know that Lucumi is a player who could walk into most defences in Italy. If Juventus want to prise him away, they will have to do it on Bologna's terms. And with Holm also in the conversation, this could turn into a complex multi player negotiation that stretches well into August.From a tactical standpoint, Lucumi would be a fine addition for Max Allegri. He offers pace on the cover, which is something Juventus have lacked at times, and he is comfortable stepping into midfield to break up transitional play. But the question remains: can Juventus get this deal over the line without selling first The Old Lady's financial flexibility is not what it once was, and that makes every negotiation a delicate balancing act. Watch this space closely because this one has the feel of a saga that will run and run.
