Lazio Seriously Consider Selling Sunderland Target Despite Sarri’s Disapproval

Lazio are reportedly open to selling Matteo Guendouzi to Sunderland, who must come forward with a more enticing offer.

The Background

The 26-year-old has been a regular starter for the Biancocelesti since making the move from Olympique Marseille in the summer of 2023. Although he had his highs and lows this season, Maurizio Sarri still considers him a key player in his tactical scheme and has no intention of letting him go.

Lazio Willing to Sell Matteo Guendouzi

And yet, Calciomercato reveals that the hierarchy is seriously considering cashing in on the Frenchman, thus neglecting the manager’s veto. As the source explains, the Aquile may have to sell one of its biggest assets to balance the books and fund the market.

Matteo Guendouzi (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

In this regard, Guendouzi could be the most tempting sale, as the transfer fee would entirely enter Lazio’s coffers, unlike the cases of Mario Gila and Nuno Tavares, where part of the fees would head to Real Madrid (50%) and Arsenal (40%), respectively.

Sunderland Emerge as the Favorites to Sign Guendouzi

While there has been interest from the likes of Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Napoli, it was Sunderland who made the most concrete approach, opening talks with both Lazio and the player’s entourage in recent days. The Black Cats would love to reunite Guendouzi with his former Lorient coach, Regis Le Bris.

Sunderland’s Initial Offer Deemed Too Low

However, Suderland are only offering £20 million (circa €23 million), while Claudio Lotito has set the midfielder’s price at €30 million ahead of the January transfer. Hence, the Premier League side boys will have to raise their offer if they intend to recruit the 26-year-old in the middle of the campaign.