​Inter Milan are actively pursuing Bologna centre-back Jhon Lucumí and have floated Ebenezer Akinsanmiro as a potential makeweight in a deal, with a €28 million release clause that expires on 15 July focusing attention on both clubs. According to TuttoMercatoWeb, citing Corriere dello Sport, the Nerazzurri have already initiated preliminary talks with Bologna and are now weighing whether to structure an offer around the young Nigerian midfielder alongside a cash component. Lucumí, who is under contract with Bologna until 2027, is a left-footed defender who typically operates on the left side of a back four—an exact profile that Chivu has not prioritized for the right side. Nevertheless, the Colombian international’s pace and comfort with a high defensive line align with Chivu’s style of play, and his established experience in Serie A reduces any adaptation risk. The €28 million release clause is set to expire on 15 July. Beyond that date, Inter believe a package around €20 million plus Akinsanmiro as a technical counter, could be sufficient to spark serious negotiations with Bologna sporting director Giovanni Sartori, who is known to find Akinsanmiro a tempting inclusion in a deal. Trevoh Chalobah remains Inter’s primary defensive target in the broader centre-back pursuit, but Chelsea’s insistence on at least €35 million has slowed progress. Lucumí presents a more attainable option at a significant discount, making him an appealing alternative. Interest in the Colombian has cooled notably since talks with Juventus have waned, while updates from Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have gone quiet. The decision on whether to proceed with a formal offer is anticipated after the release clause window closes on 15 July.
Inter’s strategic interest in Lucumí centers on securing a reliable, left-footed option who can slot into a back four with a high line, a tactical preference that aligns with Chivu’s envisioned setup. Lucumí’s tempo, defensive discipline, and comfort within Italy’s top flight position him as a practical fit who could ease the transition compared with other options on the market. The potential inclusion of Akinsanmiro adds an additional layer of value for Bologna, presenting a young asset with potential upside that could help bridge the gap between the two clubs’ valuation.
The evolving market dynamics around Lucumí suggest a cautious but forward-moving approach from Inter. While the €28 million clause acts as a clear benchmark, Inter’s readiness to negotiate down to around €20 million, supplemented by Akinsanmiro, indicates a willingness to leverage the Nigerian’s potential to sweeten the deal. This strategy is shaped by the desire to avoid overpayment and to secure a player who can integrate quickly without imposing a heavy financial burden.
Competition for Lucumí has cooled in recent weeks. Inter’s direct chase has softened as Juventus’ interest has diminished, and inquiries from Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have faded. The window of opportunity for a formal bid appears tightly linked to the July 15 release clause expiry, after which Inter anticipate trading leverage could shift in their favor if Bologna remains open to a negotiated arrangement below the clause. With the summer window progressing, Inter’s decision-making process will likely hinge on the responses from Bologna’s management, particularly Sartori, and the evolving market appetite for a left-sided centre-back who can contribute to a high-pressing, high-line system.
In summary, Inter’s pursuit of Lucumí is characterized by a pragmatic approach that blends financial realism with tactical fit. The club is exploring a deal structure that could incorporate Akinsanmiro as a technical counterweight to a cash offer, aiming to catalyze negotiations ahead of the 15 July deadline. While Chalobah remains the preferred long-term target within Inter’s defensive plan, Lucumí’s combination of Serie A experience, pace, and compatibility with a high defensive line makes him a logical alternative if the price and terms align post-release clause. As the July deadline approaches, the likelihood of a formal interruption to the negotiation process will depend on Bologna’s openness to a discount and the willingness of Sartori to entertain a deal centered on a combination of cash and youth potential.