The report says Bologna rejected an initial proposal and were not persuaded by player-exchange ideas. That matters.
That is often how these deals turn: not with noise, but with structure. If the selling club wants guaranteed money and the buying club finally moves in that direction, the conversation changes quickly.
Lucumi has been on the radar of several clubs for some time, and reports suggest his profile has drawn attention since a strong World Cup showing. He looks like the sort of defender big clubs keep circling back to: experienced, proven in Serie A, and already adapted to the league.
For Juventus, that lowers the risk.
For Bologna, the stance appears consistent: resist low or complicated offers, and only engage seriously when the valuation is respected. That is sensible business.
For Manchester United, if the report is accurate, this may be a reminder of how often player preference decides the market. Interest alone is rarely enough when another club can offer familiarity, league continuity and a clearer pathway.
The next step is straightforward: if Juventus submit the improved bid now being discussed, this story could move fast. If not, the door may stay open for rivals before the window’s next decisive stretch.