Manchester United are considering matching Bologna's £21m valuation for defender Jhon Lucumi, with the club also benefiting from a structured sell-on clause in Radek Vitek's departure to Middlesbrough.
Lucumi transfer decision looms
United face a time constraint in deciding whether to meet Bologna's asking price for the Colombian centre-half, who has also attracted interest from Juventus and Chelsea. Reports from Italy suggest United could gain an advantage by paying the fee before Juventus.
Corriere di Bologna reports that United are among the clubs weighing up paying the asking price and are "capable" of meeting it. The 28-year-old is said to only be willing to move to a 'big club', giving United an edge.
Lucumi has made over 100 Serie A appearances and was part of Colombia's World Cup squad that reached the round of 16. United's pursuit follows the collapse of a £60m move for Lewis Hall, with Newcastle United making clear he would not leave.
Vitek deal includes sell-on clause
Goalkeeper Radek Vitek has completed a move to Middlesbrough for an initial £7m, potentially rising to £14m with add-ons. The deal includes a buy-back clause, matching rights, and a 35 per cent sell-on clause, securing a potential future windfall for United.
"The mission is clear: to go to the Premier League," Vitek said. "I think everyone at the club has that mindset, and I want the same thing. Now I just can't wait to get started."
