Premier League Side Makes Initial Enquiry for Super Eagles Star Amid AFCON 2025 Duty – Could a Loan Deal Be on the Cards?

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru transfer

The January transfer window is heating up, and Nottingham Forest are reportedly setting their sights on a talented Super Eagles midfielder. According to multiple sources including TuttoMercatoWeb and Italian reports, Forest have made an exploratory enquiry for Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the 24-year-old currently plying his trade at Lazio in Serie A.

Dele-Bashiru, who is away on international duty with Nigeria at the AFCON 2025 in Morocco, has caught the eye with his performances both at club and country level. The Premier League club, under manager Nuno Espírito Santo (or current setup), sees him as a potential addition to bolster their midfield options.

Why Dele-Bashiru? Lazio’s €15m Valuation and Transfer Context

Lazio value the Nigeria international at around €15 million plus bonuses, a price tag that could help the Biancocelesti reinvest following recent departures like Valentin Castellanos to West Ham and Matteo Guendouzi to Fenerbahce. Initial contacts between the clubs have taken place, but Lazio are waiting for Forest to formalize their interest with a concrete offer.

Due to Financial Fair Play considerations, Nottingham Forest may prefer a loan deal with an option or obligation to buy rather than an outright purchase. Lazio, however, are likely to push for a more firm commitment if they agree to let the player go mid-season.

Dele-Bashiru joined Lazio from Turkish side Hatayspor in 2024 (initially on loan with obligation to buy, now permanent), and has been a regular in Maurizio Sarri’s squad despite some injury setbacks. His background includes youth spells at Manchester City and senior time at Sheffield Wednesday, making a return to English football a natural fit.

Super Eagles Star Shining at AFCON 2025

While transfer talk swirls, Dele-Bashiru is focused on helping Nigeria at AFCON 2025. The Super Eagles have been impressive, cruising through the group stage and into the knockout rounds with commanding wins, including a 4-0 demolition of Mozambique in the Round of 16.

Dele-Bashiru has featured as a substitute and brought energy to the midfield, contributing to Nigeria’s strong run under coach Eric Chelle.

What This Means for Nottingham Forest

The Tricky Trees have been active in recent windows, and adding a dynamic, versatile midfielder like Dele-Bashiru could provide depth and creativity. His experience in multiple leagues and international pedigree make him an exciting prospect.

With talks reportedly underway and Dele-Bashiru’s contract at Lazio running until 2028, this transfer saga could develop quickly once AFCON concludes for Nigeria.