Lazio near agreement for another Super Eagles star

Italian Serie A side Lazio are closing in on a deal to sign another Super Eagles forward Philip Otele, from Swiss club Basel ahead of the summer transfer deadline, Soccernet.ng reports.

Otele's future has remained uncertain throughout the summer, with the Nigerian winger expected to leave Basel in search of a new challenge.

The Super Eagles star joined the Swiss club in 2025 on an initial loan deal. However, he could now be on his way out just a few months later after failing to settle at the club.

Otele also spent time on loan at German club Hamburg during the winter transfer window, but eventually left after the Bundesliga side decided not to activate their option to sign him permanently.

The 27-year-old has since been linked with several clubs this summer, including Italian side Lecce and English side Derby County, as he continues to search for his next destination.

Otele has made five appearances for the Super Eagles since making his debut in Nigeria's 2-2 draw against Jordan in an international friendly in March.

A move to a new club could also help him strengthen his place in the national team setup ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, which begin next month.

Lazio plan Super Eagles connection with Otele and Dele-Bashiru

According to transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri on X, Lazio are close to reaching an agreement with Basel for the loan signing of Philip Otele.

The proposed deal is expected to include an option for Lazio to make the move permanent at the end of the season. If the transfer goes through, Otele will link up with his Super Eagles teammate Fisayo Dele-Bashiru at the Italian club.

Dele-Bashiru has been with Lazio since 2024, initially joining the club on loan from Turkish side Hatayspor before completing a permanent move.

The midfielder was also part of the Lazio side that finished as runners-up in the Coppa Italia last season after losing to Inter Milan in the final.

Otele's arrival would make him Lazio's fourth signing of the summer following the arrivals of Andrea Pinamonti, Josip Šutalo and Davide Frattesi.

With only a few hours remaining before the transfer deadline, Otele's situation is one to watch closely as developments continue regarding his next move.

At the moment, Lazio appear to be leading the race for the Super Eagles forward, with an agreement on a loan deal very close.