Lazio Faces Increased Competition for Striker Kennedy

Lazio's primary target to bolster their attacking options, Fluminense striker John Kennedy, is now attracting interest from other clubs. According to Il Messaggero, the Brazilian player, whose contract runs until December 2027, has been presented as an option to both Udinese in Serie A and Shakhtar Donetsk. This development means Lazio is no longer the sole club considering a move for Kennedy, potentially hindering their efforts to secure the transfer, which has been their top priority for strengthening their forward line.

The report from Il Messaggero, as cited by LaLazioSiamoNoi, indicates that Kennedy is favored by Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso over domestic alternatives like Roberto Piccoli and Andrea Pinamonti. This preference has been consistent, with earlier reports from Brazil suggesting the player himself is keen on a move to Rome and would leave the transfer negotiations to Fluminense.

Lazio's initial offer was reportedly around €8 million, while Fluminense valued the player at €12 million, a gap considered bridgeable. However, the emergence of competing suitors introduces an element of urgency. If Lazio wishes to capitalize on Kennedy's apparent preference for a move to Rome, they may need to act swiftly to prevent Udinese, Shakhtar, or other interested clubs from establishing a stronger position in the race for the player.

English Translation:

Lazio's primary target to strengthen their attack, Fluminense striker John Kennedy, is now drawing interest from other clubs. According to Il Messaggero, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, the Brazilian, whose contract expires in December 2027, has been offered to Udinese in Serie A as well as to Shakhtar Donetsk. This means Lazio is no longer alone in considering a move. This development could complicate the pursuit of the player, whom the Biancocelesti have made their priority for strengthening their attacking force.

The 2002-born forward is ranked higher on Lazio's list than domestic alternatives. The report notes that Gennaro Gattuso's side prefers Kennedy over Italian options such as Roberto Piccoli and Andrea Pinamonti.

This preference has remained consistent in recent days, with earlier reports from Brazil suggesting that the player himself is attracted to a move to Rome and would leave the decision to Fluminense.

Lazio had initially proposed a fee of around €8 million, contrasting with Fluminense's valuation of €12 million, a gap described as bridgeable. However, the emergence of rival suitors adds a sense of urgency. If the Biancocelesti want to convert Kennedy's apparent preference into a deal, they may need to act decisively before Udinese, Shakhtar, or other clubs gain a stronger position in the transfer race.