Fulham sign Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey from Ajax for €21m

Fulham have announced the signing of centre-back Calvin Bassey from Ajax.
The Cottagers have unveiled Bassey as their latest summer addition after reaching an agreement with Ajax over a €21m (£18m) transfer.

The deal is subject to international clearance, which the club have said should be received during the early stages of next week.

Bassey has put pen to paper on a four-year deal until the summer of 2027, with an option for Fulham to extend by a further 12 months.

Speaking to FFCtv, Bassey said: “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.

“It’s a London club as well, so it’s always a plus to go home! I’m happy it’s all done now and I can just focus on the football and help the team build on last season, when they did amazing.”

Fulham vice-chairman Tony Khan added; “I’m thrilled to welcome Calvin Bassey to Fulham Football Club! He’s a young and versatile defender; a homegrown player who developed at Leicester City’s academy before moving on to play for Rangers and then for Ajax, as well as Nigeria’s national team.

“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.”

The Nigeria international leaves Ajax just one year after joining the club from Scottish Premiership side Rangers.

During his time with the Dutch giants, the central defender made 39 competitive appearances, chipping in with one goal and five assists.

Bassey, who has earned 10 caps for Nigeria, will wear the number three shirt for Marco Silva’s side in the 2023-24 season.