Lazio reject multiple offers for Brighton target Dele-Bashiru

Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani has confirmed that the club turned down several offers for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru during the winter transfer window, including interest from Brighton & Hove Albion, Soccernet.football reports.

The Seagulls, seeking midfield reinforcements after the sale of Jakub Moder to Feyenoord and Julio Enciso’s loan move to Ipswich Town, inquired about Dele-Bashiru’s availability. However, Lazio rebuffed their approach, unwilling to part with the Nigerian midfielder unless an exceptional offer was made.

Dele-Bashiru, who joined the Serie A side last summer from Turkish club Hatayspor, has struggled to cement his place in Marco Baroni’s squad.

The 24-year-old has made 14 league appearances, scoring twice, but has yet to establish himself as a key figure. His adaptation to the demands of Italian football has been challenging, raising questions about his long-term future in Rome.

Speaking during a press conference to unveil Lazio’s new signings, Fabiani revealed that Dele-Bashiru was not the only player sought by other clubs.

“If a club brings €100 million for a player with all the assets, the player leaves. For Romagnoli, we said no, and they asked us. The same for Rovella, Dele-Bashiru, and Tchaouna,” he stated, emphasizing Lazio’s determination to retain their core squad despite external interest.

Dele-Bashiru’s struggles have been compounded by uncertainty over his best position. Baroni has deployed him in various midfield roles without settling on a defined role, fueling speculation about his future.

When asked about the midfielder’s ideal position, Fabiani deflected, saying, “This is a technical question for Baroni. I do not interfere with the coach’s decisions, just as the coach does not interfere with the club’s choices.”

For now, Dele-Bashiru remains a Lazio player, but with his form under scrutiny and interest from abroad, his future in Italy remains uncertain.