Fulham’s £18m bid for Ajax’s Calvin Bassey accepted, but deal hinges on Ghanaian centre-back

The Nigerian defender who left Rangers FC to join Ajax Amsterdam is on the verge of joining Fulham

Calvin Bassey's potential move to Fulham FC appears to have hit a roadblock, despite the club reportedly agreeing to an £18 million fee with Ajax for the former Rangers star, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to SkySports news reporter, Dharmesh Sheth, the Cottagers' pursuit of Southampton's outcast, Mohammed Salisu, could be why they hesitated to finalise the deal for Bassey.

Fulham are believed to be close to securing a £15 million transfer for Salisu, with personal terms being a critical factor in the decision, which would have the club sign either him or Bassey.

This has left the London-based club leaning towards signing the 24-year-old centre-back from Southampton, potentially jeopardising the deal with Bassey.

The Nigerian defender joined Ajax from Rangers last summer on a five-year deal worth just about £20 million, and he has however faced a lot of backlash during his time in Amsterdam.

Despite his relatively short stint with the Dutch club, Fulham's interest in the Nigerian international has been strong.

Fulham likely to sign 1 of Calvin Bassey/Mohammed Salisu. Agreement reached with Ajax for Bassey for £18m. Fulham close to agreement with Southampton over Salisu for £15m. One source says Fulham are leaning towards Salisu. Personal terms will be a factor. w/@skysportslyall #FFC

— Dharmesh Sheth (@skysports_sheth) July 24, 2023

Salisu's situation at Southampton allows Fulham to bolster their defensive ranks. The Saints are reportedly looking to cash in on the 24-year-old, who has one year left on his contract, after being excluded from the squad due to concerns over his commitment.

Personal conditions and club considerations will be crucial in choosing which centre-back Fulham finally gets for their Premier League campaign as the transfer story progresses.