Aston Villa are preparing a January move for Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi as manager Unai Emery seeks to reunite with his former Arsenal player, according to reports emerging from Italy.
Emery's midfield target
The Villans have been long-term admirers of the French international, who worked directly under Emery during their time together at The Emirates Stadium. Guendouzi left Arsenal in 2021 to join Marseille before making his subsequent move to Serie A side Lazio.
Football Italia suggests that Villa's interest has recently "resurfaced" as the Midlands club looks to strengthen their squad during the winter transfer window. Premier League newcomers Sunderland have also been named as potential suitors for the 26-year-old midfielder.
Form dip prompts transfer speculation
Guendouzi's situation at Lazio has become increasingly uncertain following a noticeable dip in his performances. After a promising start to the campaign, his form has declined sharply since returning from suspension after receiving a red card in the heated Rome derby.
According to Italian publication Il Messaggero, the midfielder's recent statistics have raised concerns within the club. The reports indicate that Guendouzi has won just half of his ground duels and only a third of his aerial battles this season.
Further analysis reveals the Frenchman has made just five interceptions while being dribbled past six times, with some observers describing him as often being the "weak link" in Lazio's makeshift midfield.
Transfer fee and conditions
Lazio would reportedly consider selling the midfielder if they receive an offer in the €25-30 million range, provided they can secure a reliable replacement first. Manager Maurizio Sarri continues to hope for an improved response from the player, but Guendouzi is no longer considered "untouchable" in the squad.
The decline in performances has been enough to "put his place, and his future, under scrutiny" according to the reports, which claim the midfielder has gone from "midfield leader to struggling figure" in recent weeks.
This potential transfer represents Emery's latest attempt to bring Guendouzi back to English football since becoming Aston Villa boss, having been strongly linked with the player during his time at Marseille.
