Sunderland eye Dele-Bashiru January move

Sunderland are reportedly considering a January move for Lazio midfielder Dele-Bashiru to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season

Premier League side Sunderland are reportedly considering a January transfer for Nigerian midfielder Dele-Bashiru as they look to reinforce their midfield during the winter window.

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Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that the Black Cats have begun assessing several Lazio players as potential signings, with manager Régis Le Bris confirming that the club has been in contact with Matteo Guendouzi. Dele-Bashiru has now joined the shortlist of players under consideration.

“Sunderland are looking for reinforcements for the midfield and have set their sights on some Lazio players,” the report stated. “Among the names monitored by the Black Cats would not only be Matteo Guendouzi but another name on the list would be Dele-Bashiru, a Nigerian midfielder who could change air in January.”

The 24-year-old midfielder’s situation in Rome remains uncertain. Lazio coach Maurizio Sarri has identified him as potentially transferable during the winter window, following a decision to exclude him from the matchday squad against Lecce.

Club insiders had expected Dele-Bashiru to return after being left out in September to accommodate Toma Basic.

Sunderland’s interest is bolstered by the midfielder’s eligibility as a homegrown player under FA rules, thanks to his development years at Manchester City’s academy.

Should a deal be agreed, he could join the Black Cats as early as January, pending Lazio’s internal review of transfer options.

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The club continues to explore various midfield solutions as they aim to strengthen squad depth for the second half of the season.

David Okere