Bologna have turned down Juventus’ offer to include Fabio Miretti as part of a deal for Jhon Lucumi, with the Rossoblu preferring a straight cash transaction for the Colombian defender.
The 27 year old centre back has just one year remaining on his contract at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara and has attracted significant interest from Premier League side Bournemouth, who are prepared to compete with Juventus for his signature. Lucumi has no intention of extending his stay in Emilia Romagna, making this summer Bologna’s final realistic opportunity to command a transfer fee for the player.
Valuation gap persists
Despite Lucumi’s contractual situation, Bologna remain firm in their €28 million (£23.7m) valuation of the defender. Juventus, however, consider the asking price excessive given the Colombian’s age and the prospect of losing him for nothing in 12 months’ time.
The Bianconeri sought to bridge the financial gap by including Miretti in negotiations, hoping that Bologna’s long standing admiration for the midfielder would make the proposal more appealing and accelerate discussions between the two clubs.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, Bologna have rejected that approach, indicating no interest in a player plus cash arrangement and maintaining their preference for a straightforward cash deal.
Bournemouth interest strengthens Bologna’s hand
The Rossoblu remain confident that other clubs will continue to pursue Lucumi and are optimistic they can secure a substantial fee before the transfer window closes. Bournemouth’s continued interest has further strengthened Bologna’s negotiating position as competition for the defender intensifies.
Miretti, meanwhile, continues to attract attention from several clubs, meaning Juventus could still decide to sell the midfielder separately and use part of any transfer fee to fund a renewed move for Lucumi later in the window. The 21 year old Italian has made 92 appearances for Juventus since his debut, scoring two goals, but has found regular playing time increasingly difficult to secure.
Juventus, who have already secured the signing of defender Lloyd Kelly this summer, are exploring defensive reinforcements as they prepare for a season without European football following their ban from the Conference League. However, their efforts to sign Lucumi may yet depend on whether Bologna’s resolve softens or if rival suitors force their hand.
