Sunderland edge closer to Matteo Guendouzi agreement as January ‘exit’ lined up
Sunderland look more likely to sign long-time target Matteo Guendouzi in January after recent reports around Dan Neil’s potential exit emerged.
Even the most optimistic of Sunderland fans could not have predicted their hugely impressive return to the Premier League which currently sees them sitting in sixth place after 17 games.
The midfield that Regis Le Bris has built has been an integral part of their success so far, with summer signing and captain Granit Xhaka proving hugely influential on upcoming stars like Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki.
Sunderland have reignited their interest in Guendouzi after initially chasing him ahead of this campaign, with a £24million price tag mooted to prise him from Lazio’s grasp.
Their arch-rivals Newcastle are also interested in Guendouzi ahead of the new year, but a new development could mean that the Black Cats are set to accelerate a move for his services very soon.
Dan Neil is wanted by Leicester and West Brom
Neil was a key part of Sunderland‘s promotion-winning side last season as he captained them to the Premier League with 48 appearances made across all competitions.
Neil rejected Premier League and La Liga clubs to stay at Sunderland in the summer as he wanted to fight for his starting place, but he has only played twice in the league so far this term, with numerous players ahead of him in the midfield pecking order.
According to a new report from Alan Nixon, via Patreon, Neil is on the wanted list of Championship promotion-chasers Leicester City and West Brom for a loan swoop in the January window.
He is set to feature more regularly as a number of their midfield stars jet off to AFCON this month, but may push for the chance to leave next month regardless, in the pursuit of more game time.
Sunderland’s Guendouzi move is more likely if Neil leaves
France international Guendouzi has been a key player for Lazio over a number of years now, with a clear improvement in his ability and temperament since his time at Arsenal as a youngster.
Sunderland’s interest in Guendouzi has primarily emerged due to boss Le Bris’ existing relationship with the midfielder from their time working together at Lorient.
The Black Cats manager was asked last month about reports linking the pair with a reunion on Wearside, and refused to rule out a move, saying: “It’s too early to speak about the next transfer window. We still have connections with players and Matteo is one of these players because I worked with him in Lorient.”
The stars could soon align for both parties to work together once more, with Neil’s possible exit paving the way for a new addition to Le Bris’ already impressive midfield ranks.