Sunderland
Image Credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi is reportedly a target for newly promoted Sunderland, sparking intrigue among Gunners fans as the 26-year-old could return to the Premier League.
According to RMC Sport, Sunderland, under manager Régis Le Bris, have initiated contact with Lazio, where Guendouzi has been a regular since joining permanently in 2024 after a loan spell.
The Black Cats, fresh off a £30 million club-record signing of Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra, aim to bolster their midfield following Jobe Bellingham’s £27.8 million move to Borussia Dortmund.
READ MORE: AL-NASSR WANT TO SIGN ARSENAL STAR TO PLAY ALONGSIDE CRISTIANO RONALDO
Matteo Guendouzi - Sunderland
Former Arsenal midfielder Matteo Guendouzi is reportedly a target for newly promoted Sunderland. [Image Credit: Getty Images]
Guendouzi, who made 82 appearances for Arsenal between 2018 and 2020 under Unai Emery, was sold for £9 million to Marseille in 2022 after loans at Hertha BSC and Marseille.
His time at Arsenal was marked by fiery performances and occasional disciplinary issues, but his tenacity and passing ability—evidenced by a 91% pass completion rate in Serie A last season—make him an attractive prospect for Sunderland’s ambitious project.
Le Bris, who coached Guendouzi at Lorient’s academy, is keen to reunite with the French international, with Sunderland’s new sporting director Florent Ghisolfi leveraging Lazio’s financial difficulties to pursue a deal potentially worth £20-25 million.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
However other recent reports from Nico Schira suggest Guendouzi remains unconvinced about joining a newly promoted side, with his ambitions possibly aligned with clubs like Newcastle United or Aston Villa, who have also shown interest.
No formal bid has been made, and Guendouzi has not yet undergone a medical, indicating the transfer is in early stages. Sunderland’s recent signings, including Enzo Le Fée from Roma, highlight their intent to compete in the Premier League, but convincing Guendouzi may hinge on their vision under owner Kyril Louis-Dreyfus.
Arsenal fans will watch closely, nostalgic for Guendouzi’s flair but confident in their current midfield depth with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi. If completed, this move could mark a bold statement for Sunderland’s return to the top flight.
NEXT ARTICLE: ARSENAL SCHEDULE ANOTHER MEDICAL WITH THREE HUGE ANNOUNCEMENTS TO COME