Lucumí breaks silence on Juventus interest: 'It's not the time'
Quick summary
Bologna defender Jhon Lucumí has addressed ongoing transfer links to Juventus, indicating it is not the right moment for a move.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceBologna defender Jhon Lucumí insists he will focus on the transfer market, including Juventus’ interest, after the World Cup: ‘It’s not the time to discuss such matters.’
The Colombian centre-back has emerged as one of Juventus’ summer targets in defence, but the Bianconeri seem unwilling to pay his €28m release clause.
Lucumí will focus on his future after the World Cup Lucumí’s contract at the Stadio Dall’Ara expires in less than a year, in June 2027, but the defender is unwilling to discuss his future now: “I’m at the World Cup right now,” he told Gazzetta.
The 28-year-old was directly asked about Juventus’ interest, but he reiterated: “‘It’s not the time to discuss such matters. When I return to Italy, we’ll calmly talk about everything.”
Lucumí’s Colombia beat Ghana in the World Cup Round of 32 and will face Switzerland in the Round of 16.
Thousands of fans support the South American team during each match at the World Cup.
BOLOGNA, ITALY – APRIL 25: Jhon Lucumí of Bologna FC looks on during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AS Roma at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on April 25, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images)
“It’s a beautiful atmosphere; it feels like playing at home. And when everyone sang the anthem together, wow, it was emotional for all of us. We want to bring our people a lot of happiness, that’s for sure,” Lucumí said.
“To reach the end, you have to overcome other obstacles. And you can only face them one by one, imagining that the only objective is to win.
“We’re thinking about Switzerland for now. Keeping our feet on the ground and staying fully focused.”
Lucumí has been playing for Bologna since 2022, when he completed an €8m move from Genk.
He has played 152 games with the Rossoblu, scoring two goals and winning the Coppa Italia in 2024-25.
Juventus have been in talks with Bologna in recent weeks, exploring a potential player-plus-cash swap deal involving Fabio Miretti.
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What happened
Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí has publicly commented on persistent transfer speculation linking him to Juventus. The Colombian international stated that the timing is not right, suggesting he is content to remain at Bologna for the time being. This statement comes amid continued interest from Juventus, who are reportedly looking to strengthen their defensive options. Lucumí's comments may temporarily cool the transfer rumours but are unlikely to fully deter Juventus ahead of the next transfer window.
Chance analysis
Lucumí's public dismissal of a Juventus move signals Bologna's intention to retain a key defensive asset, at least for the current season. Juventus will likely continue scouting alternative centre-back targets, but Lucumí's stance reduces leverage in any potential negotiation. From a prediction standpoint, Bologna can count on defensive continuity, while Juventus' search for defensive reinforcement remains ongoing.
Bologna retain a key defender for the near term; Juventus' defensive reinforcement plans remain unresolved.
Lucumí likely stays at Bologna short-term; Juventus must pursue alternative defensive targets, so don't factor him into Juve's upcoming plans.