Juventus Transfer Market: Here’s the Key to Signing Jhon Lucumí (Who Has Already Agreed)

Jhon Lucumí and Juventus are getting closer and closer. The Bianconeri management’s prolonged courtship appears to have finally convinced the Colombian defender, who considers Turin the ideal destination for the next stage of his career.

The 1998-born player has reportedly turned down lucrative offers from Turkey, specifically from Galatasaray and Besiktas. Lucumí wants to continue competing in one of Europe’s top leagues and would prefer to stay in Serie A, where he has established himself as one of the most highly regarded defenders while playing for Bologna. Not even Nottingham Forest, despite an offer of approximately 3.5 million net per season, was able to change his plans.

A general agreement is reportedly already in place between Lucumí and Juventus for a five-year contract worth approximately 2.5 million euros per season plus bonuses. Bolstered by the agreement with the player and Spalletti’s approval, Juventus management is therefore trying to find common ground with Bologna.

Juve is also aided by the Colombian’s contract situation, as his deal with Bologna is set to expire in ten months. With the 28 million release clause now expired, Bologna had initially set the price at around 25 million, but as the weeks go by, the club may be forced to lower its demands to avoid the risk of losing the player on a free transfer. Juventus is thus aiming to close the deal for around 20 million, following an initial offer of 17 million that was rejected by Bologna.

Juan Cabal could also be included in the deal, via a loan with an option to buy. The Colombian had already been scouted by Bologna before his transfer from Verona to Juventus and could be the key piece to facilitate the deal.