Sunderland Manager Admits He’s Keen to Reunite With Lazio Midfielder | OneFootball

Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris would like to reconnect with Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, who is no longer considered untouchable.

The Background

The 26-year-old joined the Italian capital in the summer of 2023 on the orders of Maurizio Sarri. However, he played his best football at the Stadio Olimpico under the tutelage of Marco Baroni last season. This season, the Frenchman has been producing underwhelming displays in the middle of the park, arguably missing the presence of Nicolo Rovella by his side.

Matteo Guendouzi (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

Therefore, some sources in the Italian press have been claiming that Lazio are no longer determined to keep the former Arsenal and Marseille star at all costs, but would be willing to listen to offers.

Matteo Guendouzi on the Radars of Several Premier League Clubs

Guendouzi had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs in the past, including Newcastle United and Aston Villa. However, more recent reports have linked him with the high-flying Sunderland, who currently sit 4th in the Premier League table.

Le Bris Confirms Sunderland Interest in Guendouzi

These links have now been confirmed by Le Bris, who held a pre-match press conference on Thursday (via Border Telegraph). The 49-year-old admitted he would like to collaborate with the midfielder again, having overseen his development when he used to work at Lorient’s academy.

Guendouzi’s Lazio Contract & Asking Price

Gundouzi is tied to Lazio with a contract until June 2028, and it includes a release clause worth €50 million. Nevertheless, some believe that Claudio Lotito and Angelo Fabiani have lowered their asking price to €25-30 million.