Jhon Lucumi of Bologna FC reacts during the Serie A match between Bologna FC and AC Milan. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Tottenham enter race for South American 'phenomenon' wanted by five other PL rivals

Originally posted on the Boy Hotspur | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 2:30 AM ET

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi.

The 26-year-old has been linked with the move away from the Italian club. Bologna are looking to sign Daniele Ghilardi this summer, and they will have to sell a central defender.

Lucumi looks like the most possible exit, and he has a €28 million release in his contract. However, the clause will have to be triggered by 10th July, as per Gazzetta dello Sport.

Jhon Lucumi is a player in demand

Several English clubs are keen on the player, and it remains to be seen whether Tottenham can win the race for his signature. Wolves, Brentford, Bournemouth, Brighton and Aston Villa are keeping tabs on his situation.

Spurs need more depth in the central defensive unit, especially if they lose Cristian Romero. The Argentine has been linked with a move away from the club, and they will need to replace him. Lucumi could prove to be a quality addition. The Colombian has shown his ability in Italy, and he has the physicality and technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League as well.

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The Colombian could fancy Spurs move

The opportunity to join Tottenham will be attractive for him. They are one of the biggest clubs in England, and they will be able to offer him Champions League football next season. The reported release seems quite reasonable as well. The deal could look like a bargain in the long term.

The 26-year-old is highly rated, and he has been described as a “phenomenon” in the past. It will be interesting to see if he can hit the ground running in English football if the transfer goes through.

Tottenham had a disappointing league campaign, and they finished in the bottom half of the table last year. They will need to improve their squad to bounce back strongly. Signing a central defender would be a wise decision. They looked vulnerable at the back last year.

This article first appeared on the Boy Hotspur and was syndicated with permission.

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