Fulham bring Bassey aboard to bolster backline

Fulham have signed Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey from Ajax.

The 23-year-old has agreed a contract until the summer of 2027 at Craven Cottage, with the option of a further 12months. 

He 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."

Bassey made 39 appearances for Ajax, including six Champions League appearances, after joining the Eredivisie side from Rangers. 

He had caught the eye during a successful two-year spell at Ibrox, winning the Scottish Premiership in 2020-21 and the Scottish Cup in 2021-22.

Fulham's sporting director Tony Khan said: "I'm thrilled to welcome Calvin to Fulham. 

"He's a young and versatile defender — a homegrown player who developed at Leicester'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. 

"W're looking forward to watching him progress."