Panic grips Euro giants as United look set to beat them to 28-yo South American defender – report

Jhon Lucumí, 28, is arguably the most compelling alternative to Lisandro Martínez that Manchester United can pursue this summer. The Colombian centre-back offers everything Martínez brings to the table, and more, which explains why his transfer links have caught the attention of many United fans. Lucumí is a left-footed Bologna centre-back who, like Martínez, boasts elite ball-playing ability and thrives as a front-footed defender. Yet he distinguishes himself with a different physical profile: greater height, superior strength, and sharper recovery pace. These attributes could inject much-needed resilience into United’s backline. Bologna are prepared to let Lucumí leave if a serious offer comes through, honouring a transfer agreement they struck with the player last year. Man United are now favourites to land Lucumí Juventus, keen to overhaul their central defence, would have preferred to submit the winning bid. However, according to Corriere dello Sport, they fear it may not be them. The Italian paper reports: “The race remains open, but Juventus faces a dangerous rival from the Premier League: Manchester United, who could upset the odds and make Bologna happy with a higher offer that would effectively sideline Juventus.” They further reveal: “The deal could therefore become complicated, so much so that Juventus’ transfer market officials are also considering Fikayo Tomori.” Why Man United Must Act With Martínez injured and no confirmation he will be fit for the start of the season, and Matthijs de Ligt also unlikely to be available, United are short of defensive options. Signing another top centre-back is a no-brainer. Moreover, for the sake of Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven’s development, the incoming defender must bring experience and leadership. Lucumí, when measured against the current centre-back market, ticks every box as United’s next defensive addition. Featured image Leonardo Fernandez via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Daniel Onguko Dan is a writer with The Peoples Person, an avid Manchester United fan whose passion for the Red Devils evolved into writing about them. He was introduced to United back in 2008, and his love for the club has continued to grow ever since. Like every other United fan, he believes the club will soon return to its rightful place and strives to reflect that belief in his writing. While he has also written about other Premier League sides, including Arsenal for Just Arsenal and The Arsenal Analysis Blogspot, Dan lives and breathes Manchester United.