The Rise of Fisayo Dele-Bashiru
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, the 24-year-old midfielder signed by Lazio from Hatayspor for €5.6 million last summer, is quickly becoming a standout player in the Biancocelesti’s midfield. Despite not yet securing a regular starting position, Dele-Bashiru has earned high praise from Marco Baroni, Lazio’s sporting director, for his potential and growing importance. Baroni often speaks of the Nigerian as a player who is steadily making his mark, demonstrating a blend of technical skill and tactical awareness that has caught the attention of many throughout the football world.
Premier League Interest on the Rise
In recent days, Dele-Bashiru has found himself at the center of a growing Premier League interest. Several top clubs, including Arsenal and Brighton, are reportedly vying to bring him back to the English shores. Dele-Bashiru’s journey in English football began with his youth development at Manchester City, where he honed his skills before moving to Sheffield Wednesday. His experience in the Premier League, combined with his recent performances for Lazio, has made him an attractive prospect for clubs looking to bolster their midfield options.
Arsenal and Brighton Keeping Tabs
The interest from Arsenal and Brighton is particularly noteworthy. Il Corriere dello Sport, a prominent Roman newspaper, has detailed the growing curiosity from these clubs. While Lazio is keen to retain Dele-Bashiru at their Formello training ground, they recognize his potential to reach even greater heights. The club’s management believes that with continued development, Dele-Bashiru could become a crucial player for them in the future. However, the reality of football is that talented players often attract significant interest, and Lazio must balance their long-term aspirations with the financial realities of the sport.
Champions League Qualification as the Deciding Factor
Lazio’s transfer strategy, including the potential sale of Dele-Bashiru, is closely tied to their prospects of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. The club’s hierarchy has made it clear that if they secure a place in Europe’s elite competition, they will prioritize retaining their key players. However, if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, they may be more open to considering offers for some of their prized assets, including Dele-Bashiru. The importance of Champions League qualification cannot be overstated, as it brings significant financial benefits and enhances the club’s reputation on the global stage.
Lazio’s Pursuit of a Top-Four Finish
Currently, Lazio is leading the race for a top-four finish in Serie A, a position that would secure them a spot in the Champions League. However, the competition is fierce, with Juventus and Fiorentina closely trailing, and Milan and Bologna also in contention. The stakes are even higher this season, as Serie A has lost its second place in the UEFA coefficient table to LaLiga, following a disappointing midweek in European competitions. To regain their standing and unlock a fifth Champions League spot for next season, Italian clubs will need to perform better in European competitions. Lazio’s ability to secure a top-four finish could be crucial in this broader context.
An Alternative Route to Champions League Glory
While Lazio’s primary focus is on securing a top-four finish in Serie A, they have an alternative route to Champions League qualification through the Europa League. The club is considered one of the favorites to win the competition this season, especially after finishing the group stage at the top of their 36-team table. Success in the Europa League would not only provide a Champions League spot but also bring additional prestige and financial rewards. This dual strategy—competing in Serie A and the Europa League—reflects Lazio’s ambition and their commitment to achieving success on multiple fronts.
In summary, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s potential departure from Lazio hinges on the club’s performance in the upcoming months. While there is significant interest from Premier League clubs, Lazio’s primary goal is to secure Champions League qualification, either through a top-four finish in Serie A or by winning the Europa League. The next few months will be crucial in determining Dele-Bashiru’s future and Lazio’s broader ambitions.
