28 March 2024 , 11:12
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Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi has emerged as a target for Manchester United ahead of the summer transfer window.
With Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos now in charge of sporting operations at Old Trafford, United are expected to be make significant changes both on and off the pitch during the summer. Investment in a playing squad which has struggled to live up to expectations is a formality, regardless of whether or not Erik ten Hag remains in charge or not.
As things stand, it's expected the Dutchman will be given the chance to win Ineos over next year, meaning he will be involved in recruitment plans. Bolstering his defensive options is viewed as a priority by Ten Hag and Lucumi, 25, is firmly on the club's radar.
The Bologna centre-back has made a big impression in Italy this season and, as such, has caught the eye of Manchester United, as revealed by TuttoMercato. Atletico Madrid are also admirers of the Colombia international, who starred in victories over Spain and Romania during the international break.
It's already been established that United will be in the market for defensive reinforcements this summer, particularly at centre-back. Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans are both out of contract with the former likely to leave, while Victor Lindelof 's future is also unclear.
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Lucumi has already been the subject of inquiries from both United and Atletico ahead of the summer. It's alleged that he is valued by Bologna at around €20million (£17.1m) although that figure could rise significantly if he impresses during the Copa America.
Given Bologna's relatively modest demands and his age, Lucumi fits the bill for Manchester United's new refined transfer strategy after years of overspending on deals.
Join the debate! What do you make of Ratcliffe's new transfer strategy? Let us know here.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is planning to move away from expensive deals for established players (PA)Ratcliffe has outlined a preference for signings which are viewed as value for money rather than paying significant sums for established superstars. After ruling out a move for Kylian Mbappe on the Geraint Thomas Cycling Club podcast, he explained: “In a way also, I would rather sign the next Mbappe rather than spend a fortune trying to buy success. It's not that clever is it buying Mbappe, anyone can figure that one out.
“ What's much more challenging is to find the next Mbappe or the next Bellingham or the nextRoy Keane. The Class of 92 and Ronaldo was only 16 or 17 when he came. The solution is not to spend a lot of money on a couple of great players.
“They've done that if you look at the last 10 years. The first thing we need to do is get the right people in the right boxes in the organising of the club. Then make can get recruitment right. It's such a vital part of a football club today, getting recruitment right.”
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