Serie A transfers: Venezia eye Dele-Bashiru – two key reasons behind interest

Newly promoted Serie A side Venezia have expressed interest in signing Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru from Lazio this summer, Afrik-Foot reports.

Venezia are looking to strengthen their squad following their return to the Italian top flight and Dele-Bashiru has emerged as one of their priority midfield targets.

The future of the Super Eagles midfielder at Lazio has been surrounded by uncertainty following the managerial change at the club. Maurizio Sarri’s departure has raised questions over whether Dele-Bashiru fits into the plans of new head coach Gennaro Gattuso.

According to Lazio insider Damiano Er Faina, via OneFootball, Venezia have become the latest club to register their interest in signing the 25-year-old.

Paul Onuachu and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Copyright: xAndrzejxIwanczukxImago

Manchester United were interested earlier in the transfer window, although that pursuit has since cooled as the Premier League club turned their attention elsewhere in their search for midfield reinforcements.

Venezia, meanwhile, remain keen on completing a deal. The Serie A side have already explored moves for Sevilla striker Akor Adams and Hoffenheim forward Gift Orban, with Dele-Bashiru now emerging as another Nigerian player on their shortlist and there are several reasons behind their interest in the Super Eagles midfielder.

Serie A experience

Venezia are preparing for life back in Serie A after earning promotion from Serie B and will be determined to avoid an immediate return to the second tier.

One of the biggest reasons behind their interest in Dele-Bashiru is his valuable experience with Lazio in the Italian top flight.

Nigeria and Lazio star Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Copyright: IMAGO

The midfielder initially joined Lazio on loan from Turkish club Hatayspor in 2024 before the move was made permanent. Despite struggling with injuries during his time in Rome, he has still managed to make 44 Serie A appearances.

Last season, Dele-Bashiru featured 24 times and remained an important member of the squad whenever he was available. His experience of competing at the highest level of Italian football could prove very important for a newly promoted side aiming to establish themselves in Serie A.

His familiarity with the league also means he would require little adaptation, which makes him a very attractive option for Venezia as they prepare for a demanding campaign.

Long-term midfield solution

Another major reason Venezia are interested in Dele-Bashiru is his long-term potential. The Nigerian international’s excellent ball-carrying ability and intelligent late runs into the penalty area make him a consistent attacking threat and adds another dimension to his game.

At 25, Dele-Bashiru is entering the prime years of his career, which would see Venezia benefit from his services for several years if they complete the signing.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru in action for Lazio in a Serie A clash. Copyright: xDomenicoxCippitellixImago

His versatility also makes him highly sought-after, as he is capable of operating as a central midfielder or in a more advanced attacking midfield role.

Lazio are not expected to block his departure if a substantial offer arrive and that could open the door for Venezia to secure one of their targets.

Should a deal happen, Dele-Bashiru would be set for the next chapter of his career ahead of the new season.

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Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.