Lazio’s Transfer Masterstroke: Dele-Bashiru Joins Growing Nigerian Contingent

Lazio is on the verge of finalizing the acquisition of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru following substantial advancements in the transfer negotiations with Turkish side Hatayspor, as reported by Umpire Sports.
The Italian club has been engaged in talks with Dele-Bashiru and Hatayspor for an extended period.
The primary obstacles included reaching agreements on salaries and transfer conditions. Nevertheless, recent reports indicate that Lazio and Hatayspor have now reached a consensus for the acquisition of the central midfielder. As reported, the 23-year-old, who was nurtured in the Manchester City academy, is set to join Lazio on a season-long loan. This agreement entails an obligation for Lazio to secure the permanent transfer, with the overall transfer fee amounting to €6 million.

Initially, Lazio will make a payment of €2 million for the loan, followed by an additional €4 million for the permanent transfer at the conclusion of the season. This arrangement enables Lazio to distribute the expenses over two seasons, which is lower than Dele-Bashiru’s €7 million buyout clause.
The final phase involved reaching an accord on personal conditions with Dele-Bashiru, who hails from Nigeria and was raised in England.

Following a successful stint at Sheffield Wednesday, Dele-Bashiru made a move to Hatayspor in 2023, where he thrived, registering nine goals and six assists in 39 appearances during his inaugural season.

Dele-Bashiru’s transfer to Lazio will see him unite with a growing contingent of Nigerian players in Serie A, including Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, and Udinese’s duo of Maduka Okoye and Isaac Success.
The 23-year-old Dele-Bashiru recently grabbed headlines with a remarkable equalizer for Nigeria in their 1-1 stalemate against South Africa in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
However, he sustained an injury in that match and was absent for the subsequent 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic, impacting Nigeria’s World Cup qualification aspirations.
Lazio’s acquisition of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is seen as a strategic move by the Italian club to strengthen their midfield. The agreement for the season-long loan with an obligation for a permanent transfer at €6 million showcases Lazio’s commitment to securing top talent.
Dele-Bashiru’s impressive performance at Hatayspor and his notable contributions to the Nigerian national team highlights his potential as a valuable asset for Lazio. His arrival will not only enhance the team’s midfield options but also add to the growing presence of Nigerian players in Serie A.
The injury sustained by Dele-Bashiru is a setback, but his resilience and skill on the field offer promise for his future impact at Lazio. Fans eagerly anticipate his debut and the positive influence he can bring to the team.