Lazio and Everton fail to agree deal for Nigeria star on the radar of Eric Chelle

Everton have rejected an approach from Lazio for midfielder Tim Iroegbunam, with the Premier League club unwilling to sell the 22-year-old for less than their valuation, soccernet.ng reports.

The Serie A side are understood to have made contact this week, but their proposal fell short of what Everton believe the player is worth. While the size of the bid has not been disclosed, the Independent reports indicate that it did not come close to convincing the Merseyside club to open talks.

Iroegbunam, who joined Everton from Aston Villa in the summer of 2024 in a deal worth around £10m, has become an increasingly important part of the squad this season. He has made 17 league appearances, 11 of them starts, as well as featuring twice in the League Cup.

His involvement grew significantly during a period when Idrissa Gueye was unavailable due to suspension and then the Africa Cup of Nations. During that run, the young midfielder delivered a number of eye-catching displays, notably against Bournemouth and Arsenal, although there have also been difficult afternoons, including the heavy home defeat by Newcastle.

Everton, who have yet to make a signing this window, may be tempted to raise funds to strengthen their attacking options. However, the club’s current stance suggests they do not see Iroegbunam as an easy asset to cash in on, especially with his role in the squad continuing to grow.

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Iroegbunam: Key future star for Everton and Nigeria?

Lazio could yet return with an improved offer before the window closes, which would force Everton into a more serious discussion. The decision will not be straightforward.

Iroegbunam is still raw and at times holds on to the ball for too long, but those around the club believe those issues will improve with experience.

A product of the West Bromwich Albion and Aston Villa academies, he spent the 2022–23 season on loan at QPR and has represented England at under-19 and under-20 level. He was part of the England side that won the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2022.

Despite that, he remains eligible to play for Nigeria, and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is understood to have marked him as a player of interest for the future.

For now, Everton are holding their ground. Whether they continue to do so may depend on how far Lazio, or any other suitor, are willing to go.