Sunderland and Newcastle United have both been credited with an interest in Matteo Guendouzi
Newcastle United could be set to rival Sunderland for the signature of Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, according to transfer reports in Italy.
Earlier this week, an update from Il Messaggero suggested that the Black Cats, alongside Premier League rivals Aston Villa, had previously made enquiries about the Frenchman’s availability during the summer window.
Nothing came of that apparent interest, of course, but the article went on to state that Lazio’s precarious financial situation could force them into a sale in the new year. The Serie A club are said to be demanding up to £26.5 million, but it is claimed that if Sunderland and Villa’s interest is genuine and they do decide to rekindle their respective pursuits over the coming weeks, they may be able to strong-arm Lazio into lowering their asking price. For his part, head coach Maurizio Sarri is said to be reluctant to see Guendouzi leave and would only be comfortable sanctioning a sale if a suitable replacement can be found.
What has been said about Newcastle United’s transfer interest in Matteo Guendouzi?
But in another intriguing development, it has now been claimed that Newcastle may also be keeping tabs on Guendouzi ahead of a possible swoop. The 26-year-old’s predicament is covered by Corriere dello Sport, who explain that he has “lost momentum” this season, having failed to adapt to Maurizio Sarri’s tactical approach.
The piece also references Lazio’s ongoing financial issues before mentioning Sunderland and their bitter local rivals as two interested suitors. Meanwhile, Il Messaggero weighs in on the ex-Arsenal man again too, mentioning the Magpies as one possible destination should he leave Italy and reiterating his £26.5 million price tag.
What has Matteo Guendouzi said about Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris?
Guendouzi already boasts a connection with Sunderland head coach Regis Le Bris, having played for his compatriot during a shared stint at FC Lorient. Indeed, earlier this year, the midfielder took the time to reflect on his former boss’ stellar start to life in England.
Speaking about Le Bris back in May, Guendouzi said, “Honestly, his results at Sunderland don’t surprise me. He’s been able to adapt to a league that demands a lot of intensity, using, I imagine, his tactical sense. The coach eats football for lunch and dinner and sleeps. At Lorient, he was already in his office at 7am and was still working at 7.30pm. He’s meticulous, picky, and doesn’t overlook any detail. A year with him is perhaps the equivalent of three with other coaches. You learn a lot about yourself. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
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