Lazio are set to move early over the future of Nigeria international Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with the Serie A side expected to begin talks on a new deal for the midfielder despite his current contract running until 2028.
Key takeaways
- Dele-Bashiru is among the players Lazio want to keep as Gennaro Gattuso shapes his long-term squad.
- The 25-year-old has recently resumed playing after a hamstring problem.
- His first competitive appearance after the injury came in the 3-1 league win over Monza on October 11.
- Lazio could step up discussions with the player’s representatives before December ends.
Lazio planning ahead with Dele-Bashiru
The Nigerian Super Eagles midfielder has been identified as a player Lazio hope to retain while the club maps out its future under head coach Gattuso.
Although Dele-Bashiru remains under contract for another several years, Lazio’s hierarchy do not intend to leave negotiations until the closing period of his present agreement. Instead, they are considering an early extension as part of their wider squad planning.
The midfielder’s return from injury has also put him back on the agenda in Rome. Dele-Bashiru had been sidelined after sustaining a hamstring issue during Lazio’s Serie A opener against Bologna on August 24.
Return to action after hamstring setback
The injury ruled Dele-Bashiru out of a number of Lazio fixtures, while he also missed Nigeria’s international windows in September and October.
He later rejoined full-team training and was medically approved to make his return to competitive football.
Gattuso brought the 25-year-old on in the 60th minute of Lazio’s 3-1 Serie A success against Monza on October 11, marking his first match appearance since the setback.
Lazio are expected to open, or increase, dialogue with Dele-Bashiru’s camp and the representatives of other priority players by December. No deal has yet been finalised, but the planned approach underlines the club’s intention to keep the Nigerian beyond 2028 and include him in their plans for future campaigns.
