AliousNewcastle Plot Shock Move to Hijack £26.5m Midfield Target from Sunderland
In a developing January transfer saga, Newcastle United are reportedly preparing to go head-to-head with Sunderland for the signature of Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, according to fresh reports coming out of Italy.
Italian outlet Il Messaggero claims that both Sunderland and Aston Villa showed interest in the French international over the summer, making enquiries about his situation at the Serie A club. Although no deal materialised at the time, the report suggests that the landscape has now changed dramatically.
Lazio Under Pressure to Sell
Lazio are believed to be facing increasing financial strain, potentially forcing them into a major sale during the upcoming window. The club have set a price tag of around £26.5 million, but the report hints that this figure may not be set in stone. Should clubs like Sunderland or Villa return with firm offers, they could attempt to negotiate the fee downward, especially given Lazio’s precarious situation.
However, Maurizio Sarri is reportedly reluctant to lose Guendouzi. The former Arsenal midfielder has become an important component of Sarri’s system, and the head coach would only consider sanctioning a departure if a ready-made replacement is secured first.
Guendouzi’s Connection to Sunderland Boss Regis Le Bris
One intriguing subplot in this transfer race is Guendouzi’s strong personal and professional connection to Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris. The pair worked closely together at FC Lorient, where Le Bris had a major influence on the midfielder’s development.
Earlier this year, Guendouzi spoke glowingly about his former mentor, praising his intensity, attention to detail, and relentless dedication to the craft.
He said:
> “His results at Sunderland don’t surprise me. He’s adapted to a league with huge intensity because of his tactical intelligence. The coach lives football 24/7. At Lorient, he was already in his office at 7am and still working at 7:30pm. He’s meticulous and never overlooks details. A year with him is like three with other coaches. Without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
A Transfer Battle Brewing
With Newcastle now entering the race, Sunderland’s pursuit becomes significantly more complicated. The Magpies, with greater spending power and Premier League status, could pose a major threat, though Guendouzi’s bond with Le Bris may give the Black Cats an unexpected advantage.
As January approaches, this is shaping up to be one of the North East’s most intriguing transfer battles of the window.
Alious
