Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have been linked with Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru as interest continues to intensify as the current transfer window inches closer to an end.
The former Manchester City academy player was crucial for Nigeria during the 2025 AFCON tournament, which is said to have piqued the interest of top football clubs vying for his signature.
Trabzonspor are reported to have opened exploratory discussions with Lazio over a potential move for the 24-year-old, which further adds competition to an already crowded race for his signature.
According to Sunderland Echo, Trabzonspor have made initial contact with the Serie A club to sound out the conditions of a possible deal for Dele-Bashiru, who is increasingly being viewed as one of the most sought-after Nigerian players currently operating in Europe.
Lazio are understood to have placed a valuation of between €15 million and €20 million, which converts to approximately £12.7 million to £16.9 million.
The Italian side are not under immediate pressure to sell but are aware of the growing interest from both the Premier League and the Turkish Super Lig.
Sunderland and Nottingham Forest have both been credited with tracking the midfielder’s situation closely, with the two English clubs expected to monitor developments before making any concrete move.
The top club’s interest in Dele-Bashiru has been fuelled by his performances for the Super Eagles at AFCON 2025, where he featured in six matches during Nigeria’s run to the bronze medal.
The Lazio midfielder made a decisive contribution in the group stage, providing the assist for Paul Onuachu to open Nigeria’s scoring account in their final group match against Uganda, which ended in a 3–1 victory for Eric Chelle’s men.
His output has since drawn attention from clubs seeking his services, with Lazio now facing a potential tug-of-war involving Premier League suitors and Trabzonspor.
