Earlier on Friday, Bologna’s chief executive Claudio Fenucci effectively ruled out a sale to Sunderland, saying “the conditions aren’t right for him to be replaced”.
That followed an improved offer from the Black Cats earlier this week, with a bid which is understood to have come close to €26m.
Sunderland’s hope of signing the Colombian looked to be over after Fenucci’s comments, but Lucumi’s agent Simone Rondanini has now said he still hopes to “find a balanced and positive solution”.
Lucumi is understood to be interested in the Sunderland move.
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Rondanini said: “I carefully read the words of the CEO of Bologna, whom I respect a lot, as well as the club that has accompanied Jhon in these wonderful years.
“It’s natural to feel a little disappointment, because our relationship with the club has always been human. From the beginning, our project was linked to a stay of two or three years, recognising in Jhon a constantly growing player.
“Last year we were asked to stay and we did so with great availability. This year, however, since the beginning of the season, the message has always been clear on both sides: if the right offer had arrived, Jhon would have had the possibility of a transfer.
“I therefore hope that on the part of Bologna there can be a reflection that allows us to find a balanced and positive solution for everyone. I understand the importance of the club and the player, and I only expect that our request can also be understood”.
Sunderland will be closely monitoring the situation as they weigh up their next move.
Regis Le Bris confirmed this week he still hopes to further strengthen his squad in the final week of the window, with centre-half one priority and Lucumi the top target.
Le Bris said Sunderland would only sanction further signings if they can land the “right player”.
Meanwhile, earlier on Friday night Nectar Triantis joined Minnesota United on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee.
Kristjaan Speakman said: “Nectar’s experienced regular first-team football throughout the past 18 months and improved significantly.
“He understands the value of continuing to play regularly at a senior level, and in Minnesota United, he’s joining an interesting project in a new country.
“Now, it’s up to Nectar to once again take the opportunity ahead of him and progress, and we all wish him well in the next chapter of his career.”
