Newcastle Target Lazio's Midfield Dynamo Guendouzi As Part Of Summer Rebuild

Following their historic League Cup triumph over Liverpool—securing Newcastle United’s first trophy in 70 years—manager Eddie Howe is preparing for a major squad overhaul this summer. Among the potential reinforcements, one name stands out: Matteo Guendouzi, the former Arsenal midfielder now flourishing at Lazio.

Despite a relatively quiet 2024/25 transfer window, the Magpies are expected to be far more aggressive in the market this time around. Guendouzi, once labeled a disciplinary concern during his time at Arsenal, has reemerged as a standout performer in Serie A and is reportedly high on Newcastle’s wishlist, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

Guendouzi's fall from grace at Arsenal was swift. After an impressive start to his Premier League career, his relationship with manager Mikel Arteta soured during the 2019/20 season, culminating in a highly publicized on-pitch incident with Brighton’s Neal Maupay. The aftermath, coupled with internal clashes with the coaching staff, saw the Frenchman loaned out to Hertha Berlin and later sold to Marseille before being moved to Lazio in 2022.

Now 26, Guendouzi has seemingly matured both on and off the pitch. At Lazio, he has been a regular feature, logging 43 appearances across all competitions this season. His consistent form and leadership in midfield have not gone unnoticed in England.

Newcastle’s interest in Guendouzi are serious. As they aim to bolster their midfield depth, Guendouzi is seen as a versatile option who could support or rotate with the likes of Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, and Sandro Tonali. Especially with ongoing speculation that Tonali could be lured back to Serie A by one of Italy’s top clubs next season, securing a reliable alternative has become a priority.

Lazio signed the Frenchman for €18 million, but his current market value has nearly doubled to €32 million. With a contract running until 2027, prying him away from the Italian capital won’t come cheap.