Newcastle United reportedly hijack £20m Sunderland transfer bid after Régis Le Bris admission
Sunderland’s £20million midfield push has taken a twist after Régis Le Bris’ comments and rival interest
Sunderland’s January planning continued to dominate conversation this week, with fresh updates emerging across several potential targets and long-standing links. Here, we round up the latest transfer news ahead of what could turn out to be a busy January window.
Reports in Portugal had suggested that Rio Ave winger Andre Luiz was attracting interest from a cluster of English clubs, including Sunderland, Brentford, Stoke City, Portsmouth and Championship side Norwich City. However, Football League World reported that Norwich are not targeting a move for the Brazilian, with sporting director Ben Knapper said to be prioritising other wide options as the Canaries reshape their attacking department.
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Sunderland’s interest in Andre Luiz is thought to be genuine, although the player himself has not spoken publicly about any possible transfer. The winger, who is under contract until 2028, has previously talked about improving the physical side of his game to reach the highest level. “I looked at the players around me and thought, being this skinny, I had no chance,” he told O JOGO in October, recalling his breakthrough at Flamengo. “I was too weak for the first team and too good for the B team. But one day I scored three goals, and I never left the main squad again.” Luiz also said he now reviews his performances meticulously. “Last year, I was missing confidence. Now I analyse my games, I try to keep the ball longer, and I have improved with the help of the team.”
Matteo Guendouzi transfer latest
Meanwhile, the race for Matteo Guendouzi has taken another twist. Football Insider claimed that Newcastle hold an important advantage over Sunderland due to their ability to offer European football and a substantial wage package. It comes as Sunderland’s interest in the Lazio midfielder continues to intensify ahead of January. Calcio Mercato reported that Sunderland have already lodged a £20million offer for the 26-year-old, although the Italian outlet suggested that figure would still fall short of Lazio’s valuation despite their “urgent need” to raise funds.
Asked directly about the Guendouzi link ahead of last weekend’s trip to Fulham, Régis Le Bris gave a typically cautious response. The Sunderland head coach admitted he remains in contact with the midfielder after their time together at FC Lorient, and acknowledged their relationship, but stopped short of confirming pursuit. “It is too early to speak about the next transfer window,” he said. “We still have connections with players, and Matteo is one because I worked with him at Lorient. But at the minute nothing, it is too early. We have really good midfielders, so we will see.”