Revealed: Why Dele-Bashiru’s Premier League move failed

Feb 2, 2026 - 14:30

Following a decent AFCON 2025 campaign in Morocco, at least three Premier League clubs were interested in the services of Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Ayodele-Bashiru, Soccernet.ng reports.

Sunderland, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth were all keen on the services of the former Manchester City man, even opening talks with Lazio over a potential deal.

Away from England, Turkish side Trabzonspor also enquired about the 24-year-old, with talks heading late into the winter transfer window, but nothing happened.

Samuel Chukwueze, Ryan Alebiosu, Dele-Bashiru celebrate with Raphael Onyedika during the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON match between Uganda and Nigeria — Samuel Chukwueze, Ryan Alebiosu, and Dele-Bashiru celebrate with Raphael Onyedika during the AFCON match between Uganda and Nigeria on December 30th, 2025, at Complexe Sportif De Stade, Fes, Morocco. Photo by Segun OgunfeyitimixImago

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Why Dele-Bashiru's Premier League move failed

As per Lazio Channel Italy, Bournemouth were the club who were most keen on sealing a deal for the Nigerian. They viewed Dele-Bashiru as the man who could strengthen their midfield, and were willing to do what it takes.

Andoni Iraola's men submitted a loan offer, with an option to buy at the end of the season included, but the bid wasn't attractive enough for Lazio.

The versatile midfielder has been clear about wanting to return to England, but is not desperate to force a move at this time in his career.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru down injured in Lazio's clash against AS Roma as Estadio Olimpico in Rome — Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was injured in Lazio's clash against AS Roma at Estadio Olimpico in Rome. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

Football Italia reported that Lazio turned down offers for the former Hatayspor man because they'd already sanctioned Matias Vecino's move to Celta Vigo.

Another of Lazio's midfielders, Reda Belahyane, already had a move to Hellas Verona in place, but Vecino's departure forced Maurizio Sarri's side to halt the deal as they'd be without depth in midfield.

As such, Dele-Bashiru will have to wait until the summer to make a Premier League move after Lazio turned down Bournemouth's loan plus €18m buy option.