Ahead of the upcoming January transfer window, Sunderland’s recruitment department is making ambitious moves, as per new reports from Italy and Spain that have linked the club to two prominent midfield and attacking targets.

According to Il Messaggero, Sunderland and Aston Villa have shown interest in Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi. The 26-year-old, formerly of Arsenal and well-known in England, has reportedly fallen down the pecking order for the French national team and is growing frustrated in Rome. Lazio, facing financial difficulties, might entertain offers for Guendouzi, with talks of a potential £26.5million fee being discussed in Italy.

Guendouzi has previously praised Sunderland head coach Régis Le Bris after their time together at Lorient, suggesting that Le Bris played a crucial role in his development. The midfielder’s kind words for his former coach could potentially influence his decision if an offer from Sunderland materializes.

Additionally, Sunderland is rumored to be among the clubs eyeing Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García, as per reports from Spanish publication Fichajes. The young forward has caught the attention of Premier League sides, with Sunderland, Aston Villa, and Wolves reportedly willing to bid around €20million (£17.6million) for the talented player.

García, aged 21, made a strong impression during the FIFA Club World Cup, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer. Although Madrid extended his contract until 2030 and promoted him to the first team, interest from England remains active, with Sunderland linked as one of the potential suitors.

Sunderland’s owner, Kyril Louis-Dreyfus, recently indicated that the club’s January transfer activities could be influenced by their league position. Louis-Dreyfus emphasized that preparations have been ongoing since summer, expressing readiness for all possible scenarios in the upcoming transfer window.

Considering the reported values of Guendouzi and García, totalling £44.1million, Sunderland’s ambitions in the transfer market are evident as they continue to impress in the Premier League under Le Bris. The Black Cats are set to face Fulham and Bournemouth in their upcoming fixtures following the international break, with fans eager to see the potential impact of these transfer targets on the squad.