Fisayo Dele-Bashiru may be set for a defining chapter in his Lazio career after Serie A club SS Lazio moved closer to appointing former Italy international Gennaro Gattuso as their new head coach following another turbulent campaign in Rome.
Gattuso is reportedly close to signing a two-year deal with Lazio that would keep him at the Stadio Olimpico until 2028.
The expected appointment comes after the departure of Maurizio Sarri, whose second spell at the club is set to end after growing tensions over transfer policy, financial restrictions and Lazio’s failure to qualify for European competition for the second consecutive season.
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For Dele-Bashiru, the managerial change introduces fresh uncertainty despite an encouraging finish to the 2025/26 campaign.
The Nigerian midfielder struggled with injuries earlier in the season but gradually forced his way into Sarri’s midfield plans. He made 24 Serie A appearances, including 10 starts, while also contributing in the Coppa Italia campaign.
One of his standout moments arrived on the final day of the season when he scored in Lazio’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Pisa, a performance many supporters viewed as a sign of his long-term potential in Italy.
Sarri had repeatedly praised Dele-Bashiru’s energy and physical presence in midfield while urging him to sharpen his tactical awareness and consistency.
Gattuso’s arrival could offer a different opportunity.
The former AC Milan and Napoli coach is known for demanding aggressive pressing, physical intensity and relentless work rate from his midfielders — qualities that closely match Dele-Bashiru’s profile.
Players such as Franck Kessie and Diego Demme flourished under Gattuso’s methods, and Lazio officials are believed to see similar potential in the Nigerian international.
Standing at 1.86 metres, Dele-Bashiru has the athleticism and strength to adapt naturally to the new manager’s style if he impresses during pre-season.
Lazio have already shown confidence in the midfielder by activating his reported €5.4 million buyout clause and handing him a contract until 2028.
Still, interest from England continues to grow.
Premier League clubs including AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest are reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window.
Sources close to the player suggest he would consider a return to English football if the right opportunity arrives.
Lazio’s managerial reshuffle is expected to spark significant squad changes ahead of next season, leaving several players uncertain about their roles.
For Dele-Bashiru, the coming weeks could prove crucial as he attempts to convince Gattuso he deserves a major role in Lazio’s next era.
