Manchester United have reportedly placed Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru on their shortlist as the club prepares for a major midfield rebuild ahead of the new season, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 25-year-old Lazio star has emerged as an attractive option for the Red Devils as they look to strengthen their squad for another campaign that could include European football, according to United Report. United are expected to make changes in midfield, with experienced players potentially leaving and younger options needed to complement the likes of Kobbie Mainoo.
One factor believed to have increased interest in Dele-Bashiru is his connection to Manchester City's academy. The Nigerian international spent more than a decade in City's youth system, progressing through the ranks after joining as a youngster. During that period, he developed alongside several future Premier League stars and earned a reputation for his technical ability, athleticism and powerful ball-carrying style.
Although he never made a senior appearance for City because of fierce competition in midfield, his development there helped lay the foundation for a career that has taken him across England, Türkiye and Italy.
United's recruitment team reportedly views Dele-Bashiru as a versatile and affordable option compared to some of the club's more expensive midfield targets. Standing at 6ft 1in, he offers physical presence, strong ball progression and the ability to operate in both central and attacking midfield positions.
Lazio are believed to value the player at around €18 million, making him a significantly cheaper option than several Premier League-based midfielders who could cost more than £80 million. Sunderland are among the Premier League clubs interested in the Super Eagles midfielder.
Dele-Bashiru: From Sheffield Wednesday to Super Eagles star
Dele-Bashiru's journey to becoming a Manchester United target has been far from straightforward.
After leaving Manchester City in 2020, he joined Sheffield Wednesday in search of regular first-team football. His first season ended in disappointment as the club suffered relegation from the Championship, but the setback ultimately helped his development.
The midfielder became an important figure for the Owls during their League One campaign and played a key role in their eventual promotion push. Across three seasons in Yorkshire, he made 86 appearances and scored five goals before seeking a new challenge abroad.
That decision proved to be a turning point. In 2023, Dele-Bashiru moved to Turkish side Hatayspor on a free transfer and immediately impressed. Operating in advanced midfield roles, he registered eight goals and five assists in his debut Süper Lig season, attracting attention from clubs across Europe.
His performances earned him a move to Lazio in 2024. Since arriving in Italy, he has featured in Serie A and European competitions, making more than 50 appearances for the club. During the 2025/26 Serie A season, he played 24 league matches, scoring once and completing passes at an impressive 93 per cent success rate despite often being used as a substitute.
His rise at club level also opened the door to international football. Dele-Bashiru has become a regular member of Nigeria's Super Eagles, contributing important performances in World Cup qualifying matches and major international tournaments.
Now entering the peak years of his career, the Lagos-born midfielder finds himself linked with one of the biggest clubs in world football. If Manchester United decide to turn their interest into a formal offer, Dele-Bashiru could complete a remarkable journey from Manchester City's academy to Old Trafford.
