Brighton & Hove Albion had an interest in Lazio's 26-year-old French international midfielder, Matteo Guendouzi, and were willing to meet the asking price of approximately £25 million (€29m). Sunderland and Crystal Palace were also among the Premier League clubs prepared to pay the fee for the former Arsenal player, who had been offered to several English teams. However, Guendouzi has decided not to return to England after agreeing personal terms with Fenerbahce, and the two clubs are now close to finalising a deal. The midfielder has two goals and one assist in 16 Serie A appearances this season and is under contract until June 2028. He joined Lazio from Marseille in July 2024 for a fee that was reported to be €13 million.