Lazio face competition for Kennedy as forward offered to Udinese and Shakhtar
Quick summary
Lazio are competing with Udinese and Shakhtar Donetsk for forward Kennedy, who has been offered to multiple clubs.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceJohn Kennedy remains Lazio’s leading target to strengthen their attack, but the Fluminense striker is drawing interest from elsewhere.
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, meaning Lazio are no longer alone in weighing up a move. It is a development that could complicate a pursuit the Biancocelesti have made their priority up front.
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – MAY 19: John Kennedy celebrates after scoring the second goal of his team during the Copa CONMEBOL Libertadores 2026 group C match between Fluminense and Bolivar at Maracana Stadium on May 19, 2026 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. (Photo by Wagner Meier/Getty Images) Kennedy preferred to Piccoli and Pinamonti by Lazio The 2002-born forward sits above the domestic alternatives on Lazio’s list, with the report noting that Gennaro Gattuso’s side favour Kennedy over Italian options such as Roberto Piccoli and Andrea Pinamonti.
That preference has been consistent in recent days, with earlier reports from Brazil suggesting the player himself is drawn to a move to Rome and would leave the decision in Fluminense’s hands.
Lazio had opened at around €8 million against Fluminense’s €12 million valuation, a gap described as bridgeable. The emergence of rival suitors, however, adds a note of urgency: if the Biancocelesti want to convert Kennedy’s apparent preference into a deal, they may need to move decisively before Udinese, Shakhtar or others gain a foothold in the race.
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What happened
Lazio are facing competition in their pursuit of a forward identified as Kennedy, with Serie A rivals Udinese and Ukrainian side Shakhtar Donetsk also in the picture. The player has been offered to multiple clubs, suggesting his current club is actively seeking a transfer. With three clubs reportedly interested, a bidding situation could develop, potentially driving up the price. The competition from Shakhtar adds a European dimension, while Udinese represents direct domestic competition for Lazio.
Chance analysis
This is a developing transfer situation involving a forward with multiple suitors. For Lazio, competition from both a domestic rival and a Ukrainian club with European resources could complicate negotiations. The fact that the player is being 'offered' suggests his current club is pushing a sale, which may give interested clubs leverage. From a squad planning perspective, Lazio will need to act quickly to secure their target before rivals close a deal.
If Lazio lose Kennedy to competitors, their forward line depth would be weakened heading into the new season; a successful signing would strengthen their attack.
Monitor whether Kennedy signs with Lazio, Udinese, or Shakhtar as this could affect attacking depth and Serie A competitive balance.