Report: Sunderland set to battle Newcastle United in the race to sign Ligue 1 midfielder | OneFootball

Guendouzi Chase Intensifies Across Premier League

Matteo Guendouzi’s situation at Lazio has become one of the standout narratives as January draws closer, with TeamTalk detailing a growing tug of war for the French midfielder. His future in Rome feels increasingly fragile, shaped by financial strain, club strategy and the ambitions of a player still determined to reclaim a place on the international stage.

Sunderland’s Ambitious Pursuit

Sunderland’s rise to seventh place after promotion has transformed them into one of the most intriguing stories of the current campaign, and Guendouzi has been identified as a player capable of elevating their midfield. Regis Le Bris knows him better than most from their Lorient days and made no attempt to mask his admiration. “We still have connections with players, and Matteo is one of those players. I worked with him previously in Lorient, so we stay connected.”

The appeal for Sunderland is obvious. Granit Xhaka has brought authority and precision, and pairing him with Guendouzi would give the Black Cats a combustible, hard running, technically secure midfield axis. TeamTalk suggest Sunderland are “very serious” and believe an offer of £22m to £26m could tempt Lazio, who are under pressure to generate capital to avoid future sanctions.

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Premier League Rivals Plot Their Moves

Guendouzi’s comments after Lazio’s win over Lecce added another layer of intrigue. “We’re all focused on the present, I want to play again with this shirt and score more goals and wins with the team.” Yet, behind that public commitment lies the reality that he wants regular minutes, visibility and a return to prominence for France ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Newcastle United remain firmly in the conversation. He fits Eddie Howe’s intense, ball winning profile, and scouts have monitored him closely. A North East transfer battle would bring a unique edge, especially with Sunderland bidding to show ambition after their rapid resurgence. Aston Villa’s continued interest under Unai Emery, who once nurtured Guendouzi at Arsenal, cannot be ignored either.

Lazio’s Dilemma and Player Priorities

TeamTalk report that Lazio are open to deals around £26m, and backup options like Giovanni Fabbian and Lewis Ferguson are already being lined up. The Italian side know that selling Guendouzi may be unavoidable. Napoli lurking in the background only adds to the sense of a market ready to ignite.

Guendouzi’s choice may ultimately come down to who guarantees importance. He wants a project, responsibility and the right platform. Premier League clubs can all offer different versions of that.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

From an excited supporter’s perspective, this feels like one of those transfer stories that could reshape a club’s midfield if everything clicks. Sunderland fans in particular will sense something stirring. Bringing in a player with over 100 Lazio appearances, Arsenal pedigree and international experience would send a statement that the club are not just enjoying their momentum but actively building on it.

There will be concern though, especially regarding Guendouzi’s hesitation about the move. Supporters want players who are committed, and the suggestion that he may prefer a larger stage could leave some wary. At the same time, that ambition is exactly why his signing would feel significant. Fans know that players with World Cup aspirations do not join clubs unless they believe the environment is right.

Newcastle fans will be expectant. His pressing aggression fits their identity and his competitive edge mirrors what Howe demands. They would view losing him to Sunderland as a shock, bordering on unacceptable. Aston Villa’s involvement keeps the stakes high, and Emery’s history with Guendouzi gives them a compelling angle.

Overall, supporters across these clubs will feel the anticipation. January often brings noise, but this saga feels substantial. The player is available, the fee is realistic and the battle lines are already visible. The excitement comes from knowing that whoever wins this race could transform their midfield for years.