Sunderland transfer news: 2025 target could be back on radar as Black Cats weigh up defensive options

Sunderland could revisit their interest in Bologna defender Jhon Lucumí this summer, according to reports in Italy. The Black Cats identified Lucumí as a prime target last summer, but the Serie A club were reluctant to sanction a sale having already lost some key players in the early stages of the transfer window. Despite his agent releasing a statement publicly urging Bologna to reconsider their stance, Sunderland eventually admitted defeat in their pursuit. Sources at the club were quick to dismiss reports of a January deal, but Gazzetta dello Sport report that Sunderland are once again monitoring developments this summer. Lucumí now has just one year left to run on his contract and has rejected offers to extend, with Bologna considered considerably more likely to cash in this time around as a result. The Echo has launched a new WhatsApp SAFC Channel to bring the latest news, analysis and team & injury updates direct to your phone. Simply click this link to join our SAFC WhatsApp channel. The 28-year-old defender is part of a complex transfer chain as Sunderland and Florent Ghisolfi work to strengthen the club's defensive options this summer. Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemović is a target, and is expected to leave the Serie A club this summer. The 23-year-old, who featured three times for Bosnia at this summer's World Cup, has interest from other Premier League clubs and also from Juventus. Juventus hold a 50% sell-on clause on Muharemović, whom they sold to Sassuolo a year ago. Lucumí is said to be an alternative for Sunderland if they cannot secure a deal for Muharemović. Both defenders are also understood to have long-standing interest from current Serie A champions Inter Milan. Your next Sunderland read: Florent Ghisolfi explains why Sunderland have appointed José Fonte to Régis Le Bris's coaching staff