Fulham Football Club have completed the signing of Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey from Ajax in a 4-year deal worth £19.3 million (N19.2 billion), Soccernet.ng reports.
The 23-year-old has agreed to terms on a contract that will last until the summer of 2027, with the club having the option to extend it for another year if wanted.
Excited about his move, Bassey expressed, “I know how big of a club Fulham is. They always have quality players, they’re playing in the Premier League, the best league in the world, so I didn’t have to think much about it. However, the transfer is pending international clearance, which Fulham expects to receive in the upcoming week.
Bassey, originally born in Italy but raised in London, began his football journey at Leicester City before moving to Rangers in 2020. During his two-year spell at Rangers, he achieved considerable success, winning a league title and reaching the Europa League final.
This performance caught the attention of Dutch giants Ajax, who secured his services for an initial fee of £17.2 million (N17.1 billion). That deal made him the most expensive Nigerian defender in history.
The young defender has already made an impact on the international stage, earning ten caps for Nigeria and debuting for the Super Eagles in a World Cup qualifier last year.
Tony Khan, Fulham’s sporting director, spoke highly of Bassey, saying, “Calvin’s been a top target for us, so we’re all delighted that he’s committed for the long term with Fulham, and we’re looking forward to watching him progress.”
Bassey’s time in the Netherlands saw him make 39 appearances across various competitions for Ajax, contributing with one goal and five assists. However, his stay was deemed unsuccessful, leading to an early exit from the club.
Returning to England and the Premier League, Bassey can make his mark in a league where he did not get to debut during his time at Leicester City.
With the signing of Bassey, Fulham are bolstering their defensive options and aiming for a strong season ahead in the world’s most-watched football league.