Matteo Guendouzi Is Back On Sunderland’s Radar As Lazio May Be Forced To Sell

Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi is likely to be sacrificed this January in order to help balance the books at the Stadio Olimpico. 

Sunderland is once again set to test the Biancocelesti’s resolve for the France international. Guendouzi previously worked with Black Cats head coach Regis Le Bris at Lorient.

Furthermore, former Arsenal general Granit Xhaka also plies his trade at the Stadium of Light. Therefore, a reunion back in the English Premier League is extremely plausible.

Will Matteo Guendouzi Transfer To Sunderland?

Although Napoli has targeted Matteo Guendouzi, it appears Sunderland will provide stiff competition for his signature. Especially as old colleagues of the Frenchman are on board with the Black Cats.

However, La Republica journalist Enrico de Lellis said in November: “Guendouzi has an offer from Sunderland, but the player doesn’t want to go there.”

The player himself hasn’t declared publicly if that is the case but it appears he is settled in Serie A. That in itself could tilt the scales in Antonio’s Conte favor but the Black Cats will endeavor to convince Guendouzi to return to the EPL.

Lazio Transfer Ban

The Lazio transfer ban that has hindered the club since the summer could be lifted with the sale of Matteo Gunedouzi. The same also applies to Biancocelesti goalkeeper Christos Mandas.

In fact, selling either player for €25-30million or a combination of other stars for the same figure is expected to help avoid a capital gains disaster.

If funds aren’t raised sooner rather than later, another embargo for the 2026 off-season could be enforced. Ahead of the January window, a partial unlocking of the ban could be forced. But only if the club operate at zero-cost parameters.

Matteo Guendouzi Career Stats And Accolades

Throughout his career, Matteo Guendouzi has played in France, England, Germany and Italy. The Frenchman is currently in his third season with Lazio. The most he has spent at any club.

Across the five teams the 26-year-old has represented, he has made a total of 369 appearances in all competitions. Guendouzi has chipped in with 19 goals and provided 38 assists.

In terms of major trophies, they have eluded Guendouzi at club level so far. He did finish as a Europa League runner-up with Arsenal in 2019 which is the closest he has come.

With France, Guendoui was part of the roster who finished as a 2022 World Cup finalist but he did taste success in the 2020-21 Nations League.