Sunderland interested in Man City academy graduate Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Lazio midfielder Dele-Bashiru has emerged as a potential January departure, with a Premier League club showing concrete interest in securing his services, according to a report by Lazio News24, citing Italian newspaper La Repubblica.

Dele-Bashiru is now on the radar of Sunderland, who are exploring multiple options as they look to strengthen their midfield ahead of the winter transfer window.

If the deal goes through, the Nigerian-born player will count as a homegrown player under FA rules, thanks to the years he spent progressing through Manchester City’s academy.

Sunderland manager Régis Le Bris has already confirmed ongoing contact with Matteo Guendouzi, but the Frenchman is not the only Lazio player being monitored.

At Lazio, Dele-Bashiru’s future remains uncertain. Maurizio Sarri has reportedly listed the midfielder among the players available for sale, leaving the door open for a mid-season exit.

However, the club is expected to reassess the situation over the coming months as transfer market conditions evolve.

A recent decision by Sarri has added further uncertainty surrounding the player’s role.

Despite expectations of his reinstatement, Dele-Bashiru was not included in Lazio’s squad for the match against Lecce.

The midfielder had been excluded at the end of September to make room for Toma Basic, and many anticipated his return for the weekend fixture.

Sarri’s choice to leave him out has raised new questions within the Biancocelesti camp regarding his standing in the squad.

Lazio are expected to make a final decision on Dele-Bashiru’s future in January, with interest from England continuing to grow.