Lazio sporting chief ‘bewitched’ by Nigerian star targeted by Wolfsburg after Europa League heroics

Nigerian star Rafiu Durosinmi continues to attract admirers after an eye-catching performance in Viktoria Plzen’s Europa League clash with Lazio, Soccernet.ng reports.

Despite Plzen suffering a 2-1 home defeat to the Italian giants on Thursday, Durosinmi left a lasting impression with a standout display.

The 22-year-old forward scored Plzen’s only goal, expertly heading home from Kalvach's curled free-kick in the 53rd minute—his second Europa League goal of the campaign.

Durosinmi's performance was even more impressive in numbers. The former Karvina striker registered two shots on target (one blocked), fought out 18 duels, completed 71% of his passes, and made one key pass that nearly resulted in a second Plzen goal.

He was substituted in the 85th minute with the game still level at 1-1, before Isaksen snatched a late winner for Lazio at the Doosan Arena.

⚽️ RAFIU IS BACK ⚽️ pic.twitter.com/NzsJm4v7LD

— Chance Liga (@chanceliga) February 16, 2025

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Lazio sporting chief ‘bewitched’ by Durosinmi

Despite the defeat, Durosinmi’s technical quality, intelligence, and elegance caught the attention of Lazio sporting director Angelo Mariano Fabiani.

According to Lazialita, Fabiani was left ‘bewitched’ by the Nigerian's performance and immediately contacted Viktoria Plzen after the game to inquire about his availability.

Man on mission pic.twitter.com/WBJ5dr4ofu

— FC Viktoria Plzeň (@fcviktorkaplzen) February 20, 2025

Plzen appear open to selling Durosinmi, having previously agreed a transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2024.

However, that deal collapsed at the final stage after medical tests revealed an injury that required surgery, sidelining him for the entire year.

Durosinmi only returned to action last month, but his comeback has been nothing short of spectacular. He has already registered five goals and one assist in nine appearances across all competitions.

His performances have reignited interest from Bundesliga club Wolfsburg, while several unnamed Premier League clubs are also monitoring his progress ahead of what could be a busy summer transfer window.

Since arriving in the Czech Republic, Durosinmi has scored 36 goals and provided 13 assists in 95 appearances across all competitions. If he maintains his current form, his next big move could be just around the corner.