Manchester United have reportedly added Nigerian international Fisayo Dele-Bashiru to their list of midfield targets as the club continues its squad rebuild ahead of the new season.
According to reports, the Lazio midfielder has emerged as a player of interest for the Red Devils, who are keen to strengthen their options in the middle of the park. Sources close to the player suggest Dele-Bashiru would welcome a return to English football should the opportunity arise.
From Manchester Prospect to Serie A Performer
Dele-Bashiru’s journey could come full circle if a move to Old Trafford materialises.
Born in Lagos but raised in Manchester, the 25-year-old spent more than a decade in Manchester City’s academy after joining the club at the age of eight. Despite his potential, first-team opportunities proved limited, leading to a move to Sheffield Wednesday in 2020.
The midfielder’s development accelerated during his time in the Championship before an impressive spell with Turkish outfit Hatayspor elevated his profile. He scored eight goals in 36 appearances for the club, earning a move to Italian giants Lazio in 2024.
Initially joining on loan before completing a permanent transfer, Dele-Bashiru has continued to grow in Serie A, establishing himself as a valuable member of the Lazio squad.
Why United Are Interested
Known for his powerful ball-carrying ability, athleticism, and willingness to drive through midfield, Dele-Bashiru offers qualities that could complement Manchester United’s evolving squad.
The Nigerian international is capable of operating as a box-to-box midfielder, attacking midfielder, or deeper central midfielder, making him an attractive option for a team seeking versatility and energy.
Across his time with Lazio, he has contributed goals and assists while earning a reputation for his physical presence, pressing intensity, and ability to break opposition lines with forward runs.
United’s recruitment team is believed to be prioritising midfielders who can combine technical quality with athleticism, and Dele-Bashiru fits that profile.
Midfield Reinforcements a Priority
With Manchester United looking to reshape their squad under manager Michael Carrick, midfield additions remain high on the club’s agenda.
The club has already been linked with several targets across Europe as it seeks to add depth, competition, and long-term quality in key positions. Dele-Bashiru is understood to be among the names being monitored as United assess the market.
With two years remaining on his Lazio contract, the Serie A side are under no immediate pressure to sell, although any serious approach from England could test their resolve.
Super Eagles Star on the Rise
At an international level, Dele-Bashiru has become an increasingly important figure for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
His performances for club and country have enhanced his reputation, and a move to the Premier League would provide another opportunity to showcase his talents on one of football’s biggest stages.
For the player, a transfer to Old Trafford would represent a remarkable homecoming story, returning to the city where his football journey began, but this time wearing the colours of Manchester United rather than Manchester City.
While no formal offer has been submitted at this stage, interest in the midfielder appears genuine, and his situation is expected to be one to watch as the summer transfer window gathers momentum.
Should negotiations progress, Dele-Bashiru could become the latest Nigerian star to make a high-profile move to the Premier League and potentially play a key role in Manchester United’s ambitions for the seasons ahead.
