Nigeria attacking midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has completed a move to Italian giants Lazio, signing on a season-long loan with an obligation to buy.
The 23-year-old arrives at the Stadio Olimpico after a breakout season in Turkey, marking the latest step in his promising young career.
From City Academy to Turkish success
Dele-Bashiru's journey began at the Manchester City Academy.
However, despite his talent, he couldn't secure a first-team breakthrough. This led him to Sheffield Wednesday in England's League One in 2020. It was in Turkey, though, where Dele-Bashiru truly blossomed. Joining Hatayspor last year, he quickly adapted to the Super Lig, establishing himself as a key player.
His impressive 2023/24 campaign saw him rack up eight goals and five assists in 36 games, helping Hatayspor finish 15th in the league. These performances caught the eye of Lazio, who made him a transfer target throughout the summer, and have finally landed their man.
Loan with obligation seals the deal for Lazio
After weeks of speculation, the move became official on Saturday.
Dele-Bashiru joins Lazio on a season-long loan with a mandatory buy clause activated upon the loan's completion. The transfer fee is expected to reach €7 million, with a potential contract lasting until 2028.
This move to Italy sees Dele-Bashiru join a prestigious club with a strong Nigerian connection. He follows in the footsteps of compatriots Ogenyi Onazi, Stephen Makinwa, and Daniel Ola, who have all donned the Biancocelesti shirt in the past.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru International allegiance
Born in England, Dele-Bashiru had the option to represent the Three Lions.
However, he pledged his allegiance to Nigeria, making his debut in a friendly against Mozambique in October 2023. He truly announced himself on the international stage just last month, scoring the only goal in Nigeria's World Cup qualifier against South Africa while wearing the iconic number 10 jersey.
The move to Lazio represents a significant step up for Dele-Bashiru: he will be eager to impress and continue his development on a bigger stage in Serie A.
