Fisayo Dele-Bashiru: Why Man United face uphill battle to sign Lazio midfielder

Manchester United are reportedly interest in Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru as the Premier League giants work on reinforcing their midfield, Afrik-Foot reports.

However, Lazio’s recent managerial change could make a move to Old Trafford difficult this summer.

The 25-year-old joined Lazio from Turkish club Hatayspor in 2024, initially on loan before the Serie A side completed a permanent deal worth around €5.4 million. Since arriving in Rome, Dele-Bashiru has shown flashes of his quality but has struggled to produce consistent performances across an entire season.

Former Lazio coaches Maurizio Sarri and Marco Baroni repeatedly praised his athleticism, strength and ability to drive forward with the ball, while also pointing to areas where he needed improvement, particularly tactical awareness and positional discipline. Injuries also interrupted his progress, including a serious hamstring problem, while international commitments with Nigeria further limited his continuity at club level.

Despite those setbacks, the midfielder still delivered important moments. He scored decisive goals during Lazio’s Serie A campaign and also made key contributions during the club’s run in the Coppa Italia.

Gattuso sees Dele-Bashiru as key part of Lazio project

The appointment of Gennaro Gattuso has significantly improved Dele-Bashiru’s chances of remaining at Lazio, according to a report by Lazialita. Club president Claudio Lotito and sporting director Angelo Fabiani have reportedly challenged the new coach to unlock the Nigerian’s full potential rather than sanction a sale.

Standing at 1.86 metres, Dele-Bashiru possesses the physical qualities that have traditionally suited Gattuso’s style of football. The Italian coach prefers energetic midfielders capable of pressing aggressively, winning duels and carrying the ball through opposition lines.

Observers have compared the Nigerian’s attributes to players such as Franck Kessie and Diego Demme, both of whom enjoyed productive spells under Gattuso. With Lazio under no financial pressure and the midfielder contracted until 2028, the club is in a strong position to resist offers.

Manchester United interest faces several obstacles

United are rebuilding their midfield and have reportedly added Dele-Bashiru to a list of potential targets. The former Manchester City academy player spent more than a decade in England before moving abroad, making a Premier League return an attractive possibility.

His ability to progress the ball, operate as a box-to-box midfielder and play in advanced positions has caught the attention of United’s recruitment team. Technical director Jason Wilcox is also familiar with the player’s development from his time within Manchester City’s academy structure.

However, Lazio’s valuation of between €15 million and €18 million, coupled with Gattuso’s desire to keep him, could complicate negotiations. Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest have also tracked the Nigerian in recent windows.

There is also uncertainty over United’s level of interest. Reports suggest the Red Devils continue to prioritise other midfield options, including Ederson, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton, with Dele-Bashiru viewed as a more affordable alternative.

Still, Lazio appear determined to give the Super Eagles midfielder another opportunity to establish himself under Gattuso, meaning Manchester United may have to wait longer if they want to bring him back to England.