Sunderland and Aston Villa reportedly tried to sign Lazio’s Matteo Guendouzi in the summer transfer window.
This comes from Il Messaggero, who take a detailed look at the midfielder and what could happen next.
The Italian newspaper explain Lazio’s unstable financial situation is affecting Guendouzi’s mood and performances. He’s struggled in Serie A so far, subsequently being ignored by France manager Didier Deschamps four times in a row.
Sunderland and Aston Villa are said to have made enquiries for the 26-year-old some months ago.
Sunderland and Aston Villa can be January bullies
The Rome club didn’t receive formal offers. Now, their financial situation and the player’s struggles can force Maurizio Sarri’s side into a January sale.
Lazio want €25-30m to sell the ex-Arsenal player, who is still of interest in the Premier League. Sarri would only sanction an exit if a reliable replacement is signed.
Should Aston Villa and Sunderland interest be genuine, then they could potentially bully Lazio over that price given their financial situation.
Guendouzi is one of their better players and someone who apparently has a market in England. January could be a good time to take advantage of the situation.