Super Eagles forward Philip Otele could be on the verge of sealing a move to Serie A, with Lecce closing in on an agreement with Swiss side Basel, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 27-year-old only joined Basel last summer from UAE Pro League club Al Wahda after previous spells in Romania and Lithuania. However, his stay in Switzerland was short-lived as he was sent on loan to newly promoted Bundesliga side Hamburg during the second half of the season.
Otele's future has remained uncertain since returning from Germany. Although Hamburg had the option to sign him permanently for €4.5 million, they decided against activating the clause despite his impressive contribution.
During his loan spell, Otele made nine Bundesliga appearances and etched his name into the club's history by becoming the first Nigerian to score for the club in the Bundesliga.
Since returning to Basel, Otele has featured in the club's opening two matches of the 2026-27 Swiss Super League campaign. However, speculation over his future has continued, with a move away from the club looking increasingly likely.
Philip Otele: Lecce close in on transfer agreement for Super Eagles forward
According to reports from Nicolo Schira, Lecce are very close to reaching an agreement with Basel for the signing of the Super Eagles winger, with the Serie A club are keen to complete the deal before the start of the new season.
Lecce are looking to strengthen their squad after narrowly avoiding relegation last season. They finished 17th in Serie A and scored just 28 league goals – the third-lowest tally in the division.
Strengthening their attacking options has become a priority this summer, and Otele has emerged as one of their main targets as they look to become more competitive ahead of the new campaign.
Basel are open to selling the Super Eagles forward permanently. Having already allowed him to spend the second half of last season on loan, the Swiss champions no longer consider him a key part of their long-term plans and are prepared to sanction a transfer rather than another temporary move.
Lecce, meanwhile, are eager to wrap up negotiations as quickly as possible so Otele can join the squad and settle into his new environment before the Serie A campaign begins.
Basel are reportedly value the winger at around €7 million and if the transfer is completed for that fee, Otele would become one of the most expensive signings in Lecce's history.
A move would also see the 27-year-old join the growing list of Nigerian players heading to Serie A this summer, following in the footsteps of Akor Adams, who also completed a move to Venezia.
