July 21, 2026
Football news

Lazio Faces Competition for John Kennedy Amidst Interest from Udinese and Shakhtar

July 20, 2026Carlos Mendoza1 мин

Lazio's top choice to bolster their attack, John Kennedy, is attracting attention from other clubs, creating a more competitive transfer market for the Fluminense striker.

According to reports from Il Messaggero, via LaLazioSiamoNoi, the Brazilian forward, whose contract with Fluminense 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 contender for his signature, potentially complicating their primary objective of strengthening their offensive line.

Kennedy is Lazio's Preferred Choice Over Piccoli and Pinamonti

The young forward, born in 2002, is ranked higher on Lazio's shortlist than domestic alternatives. The report indicates that Gennaro Gattuso's team favors Kennedy over Italian strikers such as Roberto Piccoli and Andrea Pinamonti.

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

Lazio had initially proposed around €8 million, while Fluminense's valuation stood at €12 million, a gap considered bridgeable. However, the emergence of rival suitors adds an element of urgency. If Lazio wishes to capitalize on Kennedy's apparent preference and secure a deal, they may need to act swiftly before Udinese, Shakhtar, or other clubs establish a stronger position in the race.