Aston Villa & Sunderland keen on Lazio midfielder Guendouzi

Matteo Guendouzi has gone from midfield leader to struggling figure in recent weeks, with the Frenchman’s performances drawing concern inside Lazio and reports from Italy suggesting that Premier League clubs Aston Villa and Sunderland could renew their interest in the former Arsenal man.

After a bright start to the campaign, his form has dipped sharply since returning from suspension for his red card in the Rome Derby.

In the makeshift midfield alongside Danilo Cataldi and Toma Basic, Guendouzi has often been the weak link, less influential than Cataldi’s tireless running or Basic’s recent goals.

According to Il Messaggero, via LLSN, Guendouzi has won just half of his ground duels and only a third of his aerial battles, while making just five interceptions and being dribbled past six times.

The decline has been enough to put his place, and his future, under scrutiny.

Maurizio Sarri continues to hope for a response, but the midfielder is no longer seen as untouchable.

Interest from Aston Villa and Sunderland resurfaced recently, and Lazio would consider selling for an offer in the €25–30 million range, provided a reliable replacement is secured first.