Earlier on Wednesday, Corriere dello Sport and Il Messaggero shared optimism about Sunderland’s move for Lazio’s Matteo Guendouzi.
There was confidence the Black Cats will be able to meet the Italian club’s asking price for the midfielder. It now seems like things will not be as straightforward for Sunderland, despite Lazio’s financial needs.
La Repubblica journalist Enrico de Lellis spoke to CalcioBlog about the 26-year-old’s situation.
He made it clear that while Sunderland have an offer on the table, the France international isn’t interested in a move.
De Lellis said: “Guendouzi has an offer from Sunderland, but the player doesn’t want to go there.”
Adding further uncertainty to the pursuit for the midfielder, the journalist mentioned interest from Napoli.
“Guendouzi comes into play in all this. I know Conte really likes him. Lazio need to capitalise [financially]”
Napoli are playing in the Champions League this season and are also challenging for the Serie A title. Considering that, it won’t be a surprise if Guendouzi prefers joining the Italian champions over Sunderland.
Regis Le Bris’ side have an exciting project, but the ex-Arsenal player isn’t playing in Europe this season. He would also want to prove himself at the highest level ahead of the World Cup. Didier Deschamps hasn’t called Guendouzi up to the national team for the past few months.
That is why the player’s next club can prove to be key in his career. He is approaching what could be the prime of his career and will not want to make the wrong decision.
