Super Eagles hopeful set to be 12th Nigerian to leave Watford as Aris Saloniki move nears

Super Eagles hopeful Tom Dele-Bashiru is on the verge of becoming Aris Saloniki's first signing of the summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Greek Super League club has reached a full agreement with Watford for the transfer of the former Nigeria youth international midfielder. Tom is the elder brother of Super Eagles and Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, wanted by Manchester United.

According to reports from Greece, Aris and Watford have agreed a deal worth an initial €1.5 million, with performance-related bonuses capable of taking the total package to €2 million. The agreement effectively ends Dele-Bashiru's seven-year association with the English club and gives the 26-year-old a fresh opportunity in Greek football.

The defensive midfielder is expected to arrive in Thessaloniki on Thursday, June 25, to complete the final formalities of the move before signing a three-year contract with Aris.

The transfer represents a significant step in the career of the Manchester City academy graduate, who has spent the majority of his professional career in England's Championship while also gaining valuable experience abroad.

Dele-Bashiru becomes the 12th Nigerian to leave Watford, following in the footsteps of former Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Odion Ighalo, Peter Etebo, Ben Iroha, Sam Sodje, Danny Shittu and several others.

Dele-Bashiru targets fresh start and Super Eagles breakthrough

Dele-Bashiru heads to Greece after spending the 2025-26 season on loan at Turkish side Genclerbirligi, where he made 30 appearances and provided one assist. His performances in Turkey reportedly convinced Aris that he could strengthen their midfield ahead of a campaign in which the club hopes to challenge for European qualification places.

Before his departure, the midfielder made 81 appearances for Watford across Championship and FA Cup competitions, scoring eight goals and registering four assists. He also enjoyed a productive spell at Reading, featuring in 39 matches while contributing four goals and three assists.

A product of Manchester City's renowned academy system, Dele-Bashiru progressed through all age levels at the club and even made one senior appearance before moving on to establish himself in the Championship.

The move to Aris could also boost his international ambitions. While younger brother Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has already broken into the Super Eagles setup and earned a move to Lazio, Tom is still hoping for his first senior Nigeria call-up. Regular football in the Greek top flight could strengthen his case as he seeks to catch the attention of the national team selectors.

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle is currently building a squad that can conquer the continent again at the Africa Cup of Nations and qualify for the 2030 World Cup.