Why Manchester United Faces an Uphill Battle to Sign Lazio Midfielder Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru

Manchester United reportedly eye Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo De Le‑Bashiru as they look to strengthen their midfield, according to Afrik‑Foot.

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

The 25‑year‑old joined Lazio from Turkish club Hatayspor in 2024, first on loan before the Serie A side signed him permanently for about €5.4 million. Since arriving in Rome, De Le‑Bashiru has shown moments of quality but has struggled to maintain consistent form over a full season.

Former Lazio coaches Maurizio Sarri and Marco Baroni praised his athleticism, strength and ability to drive forward with the ball, while also noting areas for improvement such as tactical awareness and positional discipline. Injuries, including a serious hamstring problem, and international duties with Nigeria have also disrupted his progress.

Nigeria and Lazio star Fisayo Dele‑Bashiru. Copyright: xMikolajxBarbanellxIMAGO

Despite setbacks, the midfielder delivered key moments, scoring decisive goals during Lazio’s Serie A campaign and contributing significantly in the Coppa Italia run.

Gattuso sees De Le‑Bashiru as key to Lazio’s project

The appointment of Gennaro Gattuso has boosted De Le‑Bashiru’s prospects at Lazio, according to Lazialita. Club president Claudio Lotito and sporting director Angelo Fabiani are said to have challenged the new coach to unlock the Nigerian’s full potential rather than sell him.

Standing at 1.86 m, De Le‑Bashiru has the physical attributes that suit Gattuso’s style. The Italian coach favours energetic midfielders who press aggressively, win duels and carry the ball through opposition lines.

Nigeria and Lazio midfielder Fisayo De Le‑Bashiru. Copyright: xCanonieroxImago

Observers compare the Nigerian’s attributes to players such as Franck Kessie and Diego Demme, who thrived under Gattuso. With Lazio under no financial pressure and De Le‑Bashiru contracted until 2028, the club is well positioned to resist offers.

Manchester United interest faces several obstacles

United are rebuilding their midfield and have reportedly added De Le‑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 prospect.

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

Nigeria and Lazio midfielder Fisayo De Le‑Bashiru. Copyright: xFrancoxRomanox IMAGO

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 uncertainty over United’s level of interest. Reports suggest the Red Devils are prioritising other midfield options, including Ederson, Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton, with De Le‑Bashiru seen 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.