Premier League club tables ₦15.5 billion bid for Nigeria’s most expensive defender in history

Fulham Football Club have set their sights on signing Ajax center back Calvin Bassey, Soccernet.ng reports. 

According to The Athletic, the West Londoners have tabled a staggering £15 million (equivalent to ₦15.5 billion) bid to Ajax for the Nigerian defender.

Bassey, who previously played for Rangers, had an decent debut season with the Dutch giants, making 39 appearances.

His move from Rangers to Ajax last summer, costing £20 million, established him as the most expensive Nigerian defender in history.

Although he still has four years remaining on his current contract with Ajax, it is believed that he could be available for transfer during this summer’s transfer window.

Earlier this week, reports from the Dutch press indicated that Ajax had turned down a bid from Brighton and Hove Albion for Bassey. 

The reigning Dutch champions are reportedly seeking an offer of approximately £20 million to consider a sale. As of now, they have not responded to Fulham’s formal offer.

Bassey, who emerged from the Leicester City youth set-up, is now 23 years old and has caught the attention of Fulham as they aim to strengthen their central defensive options ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.

During his time in Glasgow, Bassey made 65 appearances over two seasons for Rangers, contributing to their success in winning the Scottish double and reaching the Europa League final.

It is worth noting that the powerful defender, born in Italy, is capable of playing at left-back as well, and it is believed that he is keen on a return to England.

With ten senior international caps already to his name, Bassey has chosen to represent Nigeria over Italy and England. His international debut came in a World Cup qualifier against Ghana last year.