Report: Newcastle now frontrunners to sign £33m Serie A star, but there’s a twist

As the summer transfer window heats up, Newcastle United have reportedly positioned themselves as favorites to secure the signature of Matteo Guendouzi, with the French midfielder potentially poised for a Premier League return.

The Magpies’ interest comes amid growing speculation surrounding Sandro Tonali’s future at St James’ Park, with Juventus and Inter Milan both monitoring the Italian midfielder’s situation.

Tonali has been instrumental for Newcastle this season, cementing himself as one of the team’s standout performers. The club remains eager to extend his contract, but should he push for a move back to Italy, Eddie Howe appears to have identified Guendouzi as a viable alternative.

The 26-year-old has long been on Newcastle’s radar, and Lazio’s failure to secure European football next season has only intensified rumors of a potential transfer.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Newcastle currently hold the advantage in the race for Guendouzi, with Lazio valuing their midfielder at £33 million (€40 million).

The Frenchman still has three years remaining on his contract, fueling suggestions that he could leverage transfer interest to negotiate improved terms with the Serie A side.

However, with Lazio missing out on European competition, the club may be more inclined to cash in on one of their prized assets.

Guendouzi is no stranger to English football, having spent three years at Arsenal before departing in 2022.

While his time in North London was met with mixed reviews, he has since revitalized his career in France and Italy, showcasing the combative midfield qualities that once earned him praise from Arsenal legends Thierry Henry and Robert Pires.

The former Gunners star was hailed as a “warrior” following a standout performance in a dramatic North London Derby comeback, though consistency remained an issue during his Premier League stint.

Since leaving England, Guendouzi has matured into a more complete midfielder. His 2024-25 campaign with Lazio saw him make 37 Serie A appearances, contributing one goal and three assists while averaging 1.2 key passes, 0.9 interceptions, and 4.7 ball recoveries per game.

While not a prolific goal threat, his tenacity, work rate, and ability to dictate tempo could make him an intriguing option for Newcastle’s midfield.

A Potential Replacement for Tonali?

Should Tonali depart, Guendouzi would arrive with a point to prove. The two midfielders share similar attributes—both are dynamic, technically gifted, and capable of influencing games from deep.

Howe may see the Frenchman as a like-for-like replacement, offering the same energy and tactical flexibility that Tonali brought to the side.

However, questions remain over whether Guendouzi can replicate the Italian’s impact. Tonali’s leadership and big-game mentality have been crucial for Newcastle, and while Guendouzi possesses the talent, he would need to demonstrate greater consistency to win over the Magpies’ faithful.

Guendouzi’s potential arrival would signal a pragmatic approach from Newcastle’s recruitment team. Rather than splurging on an unproven talent, the club appears to be targeting a player with Premier League experience who could slot in immediately.

At £33 million, the deal would represent a calculated gamble—one that could pay dividends if Guendouzi rediscovers the form that once made him one of Europe’s most promising young midfielders.

That said, Newcastle may explore other options if Lazio refuse to lower their asking price. The Magpies have been linked with several midfielders across Europe, and Howe will be keen to ensure that any new addition complements the existing squad dynamic.

The Verdict: A Smart Move or a Risky Gamble?

Guendouzi’s potential signing divides opinion. On one hand, he offers proven quality, top-flight experience, and the kind of aggressive midfield presence that Howe admires.

On the other, his Arsenal stint proved that he can be a polarizing figure, with questions lingering over his temperament and ability to perform at the highest level week in, week out.

For Newcastle, the decision may ultimately hinge on Tonali’s future. If the Italian stays, Guendouzi could still be a valuable squad addition.

If he leaves, the Frenchman would carry the weight of expectation as his direct replacement. Either way, this is a transfer saga worth monitoring as the summer unfolds.

One thing is certain: should Guendouzi return to the Premier League with Newcastle, he’ll be determined to prove that his best years are still ahead of him.