Mattéo Guendouzi is set to join Turkish Super Lig giants Fenerbahçe from Lazio, with a verbal agreement in place for a €29 million transfer package including add-ons. The deal marks a significant winter move for the French midfielder, who will depart Serie A after 18 months with the Biancocelesti.

Transfer Details and Agreement Status

According to reliable transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, a verbal agreement has been finalized between Fenerbahçe and Lazio for Guendouzi’s services. Paperwork is currently being drafted between the clubs to provide the final green light, with the signing expected to be completed this week. Guendouzi has already agreed personal terms with the Turkish outfit, streamlining the final stages of the transfer process.

Mattéo Guendouzi — ROME, ITALY – NOVEMBER 03: Matteo Guendouzi of SS Lazio gestures during the Serie A match between SS Lazio and Cagliari Calcio at Stadio Olimpico on November 03, 2025 in Rome, Italy. (Photo by Paolo Bruno/Getty Images)

The €29 million package includes both fixed fees and performance-based add-ons, representing a substantial investment from Fenerbahçe in bolstering their midfield engine. The player has given his total approval to the move, having been convinced by the central role promised to him in Istanbul.

Player Profile and Career Trajectory

Career Stage	Club	Period	Notable Achievement
Youth/Development	Paris Saint-Germain	2005-2015	Academy graduate
Early Career	Arsenal	2015-2022	98 appearances, versatile midfielder
Loan Spell	Olympique Marseille	2023 (loan)	Developed under prominent management
Permanent Move	Olympique Marseille	2023-2024	Consistent performances in Ligue 1
Serie A Move	Lazio	July 2024-present	14 appearances, 2 goals this season
Next Destination	Fenerbahçe	January 2026	Turkish Super Lig transfer

Guendouzi joined Lazio in July 2024 and has made 14 appearances this season, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist. The 26-year-old French international has established himself as a regular in Didier Deschamps’ national team squads, earning 14 caps and scoring 2 goals for France.

Fenerbahçe’s Competitive Ambitions

Fenerbahçe currently sits second in the Turkish Super Lig, just three points behind league leaders Galatasaray. The club’s pursuit of Guendouzi reflects their serious championship ambitions this season, with the midfield strengthening targeting a potential title challenge in the coming months.

The Turkish club is also competing in the UEFA Europa League, competing for qualification into the knockout stages. Guendouzi’s addition represents significant investment in securing domestic and European success simultaneously.

Competing Interest and Rejection

Club	Interest Level	Status
Sunderland (Premier League)	Active pursuit	Made substantial offer, approximately €25m
Newcastle (Premier League)	Mentioned interest	Did not formally engage
Fenerbahçe (Turkish Super Lig)	Primary target	Verbal agreement finalized
Other Premier League Clubs	Unnamed interest	Did not formalize bids

Sunderland had made a significant approach for Guendouzi, offering approximately €25 million for his services. However, the midfielder remained skeptical of returning to the Premier League with the English club, instead preferring a more illustrious destination with greater Champions League pedigree and continental experience.

Medical and Contract Details

Following the signing of all necessary paperwork this week, Guendouzi is expected to travel to Istanbul for his medical examination with Fenerbahçe. Reports indicate he will join the club after Lazio’s match against Verona on January 11, allowing the Serie A club to conclude their upcoming fixture before releasing the midfielder.

Guendouzi has agreed to a 4.5-year contract with Fenerbahçe, with an additional one-year extension option. His net annual salary is reported to be €4 million, representing competitive compensation within the Turkish market.

Impact on Lazio and Replacement Planning

Lazio has reportedly identified a replacement for Guendouzi’s departure, with the club preparing contingency plans should the transfer be finalized. The Biancocelesti were receptive to the move given the financial package offered and Guendouzi’s success in attracting interest from multiple European clubs.

The departure allows Lazio to restructure their midfield while generating substantial transfer revenue. Fenerbahçe’s improved offer in recent hours accelerated negotiations significantly, effectively shortening what appeared to be a protracted process.

Marseille’s Residual Interest

Olympique Marseille maintains residual interest in Guendouzi’s transfer due to contractual clauses included during his original loan move from Arsenal. Following the two-step transfer between Marseille and Lazio, and now to Fenerbahçe, Marseille is entitled to approximately 10 percent of any resale profit. This financial arrangement benefits the French club with approximately €1 million from the transaction.

Timeline and Expected Completion

The transfer is expected to be formalized within the week, following completion of all administrative procedures between Lazio and Fenerbahçe.

The pace of negotiations has accelerated significantly in recent days, suggesting both clubs are motivated to finalize details promptly to allow Guendouzi integration with Fenerbahçe’s squad for the remainder of the season.

FAQs

When will Mattéo Guendouzi’s transfer to Fenerbahçe be officially completed?

The transfer is expected to be formally completed this week following final paperwork finalization. Guendouzi will likely travel for his medical after Lazio’s January 11 match against Verona, with an official signing expected shortly thereafter.

What is the total transfer fee for Mattéo Guendouzi?

The transfer package totals €29 million, including performance-based add-ons. Reports also suggest the overall value could reach €30 million depending on final bonus structures agreed between clubs.

What contract terms has Guendouzi agreed with Fenerbahçe?

Guendouzi has agreed to a 4.5-year contract with Fenerbahçe, featuring a one-year extension option. His net annual salary is reported at €4 million, ensuring competitive compensation within the Turkish Super Lig.

Why did Guendouzi reject Sunderland’s offer?

Guendouzi was skeptical of Sunderland’s approach despite their substantial €25 million offer. He preferred a more illustrious destination with greater European pedigree and continental competition experience, making Fenerbahçe’s offer more appealing.

How many appearances has Guendouzi made for Lazio?

During his 18 months at Lazio, Guendouzi has made 14 appearances this season, scoring 2 goals and providing 1 assist. His contract with Lazio was originally set to run until June 2028 before the transfer.