Fabrizio Romano has given, Nigerian centre-back, Calvin Bassey’s move to Fulham the all-clear as the 23-year-old is “…in the US to undergo medical tests”. It is said that Fulham should have the deal completed before Saturday the 29th of July, giving The Cottagers ample time to integrate Bassey into the first team ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Fulham were torn between Mohammed Salisu and Bassey but, it was reported that Marco Silva had the last say and his preferred choice was the Nigerian, as reported by Dharmesh Sheth.
Emerging talent Calvin Bassey returns to Britain
Marco Silva’s preferred left-footed CB
Bassey signed his first professional contract just three years ago at Rangers. He developed at a rapid rate under Steven Gerrard during their unbeaten season. This allowed him to play an integral role in their odds-defying Europa League campaign, where they were narrowly defeated by Frankfurt on penalties.
Read More: Cottagers Seeking Midfielder From London Rival
The 23-year-old impressed across the globe, his performances alone earned him a big-money move to the Netherlands where European giants Ajax signed Bassey for £20 million. He made 25 appearances with 1 goal last season and caught the eye back on British soil with impressive performances in the Champions League. Ajax faced stiff opposition as they were in a tough group with Liverpool, Napoli and Bassey’s former side Rangers.
Fulham’s piece to the European puzzle
Read More: “Never play for Fulham again” star set for stunning departure
Marco Silva has prioritised a left-footed centre-back, with vice-captain Tim Reem being in the twilight of his career. The Cottagers just tailed off at the back end of last season’s Premier League as European football was firmly in their sights. The natural progression now for Silva’s side would be to go one better and get back into Europe for the first time in 13 years.
