English Premier League newcomers Sunderland have officially entered the transfer race for Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with the Black Cats monitoring the Nigerian's situation at Lazio ahead of a potential January move.
Dele-Bashiru's Challenging Spell in Serie A
The 24-year-old Nigerian international has experienced a turbulent period in Italy since completing a €3.43 million transfer from Hatayspor last year. Despite showing early promise with five goals and three assists in 33 appearances across all competitions, his Lazio career has hit significant obstacles.
Dele-Bashiru began the current season strongly, establishing himself as a regular in coach Maurizio Sarri's starting lineup and demonstrating confidence in central midfield. However, his progress was abruptly halted by a hamstring injury in September that has kept him sidelined and raised questions about his long-term future with the Serie A club.
Sunderland's Strategic Interest
According to reports from Lazio News 24, newly promoted Sunderland have identified Dele-Bashiru as a key midfield target. The Black Cats have made an impressive return to England's top flight, collecting 19 points from their first 12 matches and showing ambition for long-term Premier League survival.
Manager Regis Le Bris has implemented an aggressive, high-energy playing style that requires physically dominant midfielders capable of covering ground and pressing relentlessly. Dele-Bashiru's profile as a tireless runner with powerful ball-carrying ability and long-range shooting makes him an ideal fit for Sunderland's system.
The club strengthened significantly during the summer, bringing in experienced Premier League players including Granit Xhaka and Arthur Masuaku. Adding a talented but hungry player like Dele-Bashiru would continue their recruitment strategy of blending experience with potential.
Transfer Details and What Comes Next
While Transfermarkt currently values the Super Eagles midfielder at €7.5 million, Lazio are expected to demand up to €10 million to sanction a sale in the January transfer window. With Sunderland financially capable after promotion and eager to reinforce their midfield, negotiations appear likely to progress.
For Dele-Bashiru, a move to the Premier League could provide the fresh start needed to regain consistent form after injury interruptions hampered his Serie A development. The Nigerian recently demonstrated his quality on the international stage, scoring a crucial 87th-minute winner against Libya in AFCON 2025 qualification after connecting with a pinpoint cross from Moses Simon.
As speculation intensifies ahead of the winter transfer window, all eyes will be on whether Sunderland can secure the signature of the versatile midfielder who continues to be an important part of Nigeria's national team plans despite his club struggles.
