Bassey: Saudis tempt Super Eagles new defensive leader with bumper move

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Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey is attracting serious interest from the Saudi Pro League, with Al Hilal reportedly making a move for the Fulham star ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 25-year-old has been in outstanding form for Fulham since joining the club from Ajax Amsterdam in July 2023 for €22.5 million.

Alongside his international teammate, Alex Iwobi, he has been outstanding for Fulham. He has made 29 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals while establishing himself as a key figure in the Cottagers’ backline.

Bassey: Saudis tempt Super Eagles new defensive leader with bumper move
Photo by IMAGO

His performances have not gone unnoticed, with Al Hilal keen on securing his services, according to reports.

Bassey, who featured in Nigeria’s recent FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, has steadily grown into one of Africa’s top defenders.

Known for his physicality and aerial prowess, Bassey, at 25, might be tempted to go for the petrodollars.

Would Saudi move could appeal to Calvin Bassey?

Reports indicate that Al Hilal have begun discussions with Bassey’s representatives regarding a potential €25 million transfer.

The 19-time Saudi champions see the Nigerian as a crucial part of their squad rebuild and are willing to offer him a four-year contract, with an optional one-year extension.

Bassey: Saudis tempt Super Eagles new defensive leader with bumper move
Photo by IMAGO

If the deal goes through, Bassey could earn a staggering €8 million annually without tax.

With his Fulham contract running until 2027, it remains to be seen whether the London club will be open to selling one of their most reliable defenders.

However, Al Hilal’s financial power could play a key role in determining Bassey’s next move to Saudi Arabia, who have been able to attract Premier League stars like Roberto Firmino and Ivan Toney to the Saudi Pro League

<!-- Author Start -->Andrew Randa<!-- Author End -->

Andrew Randa

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Andrew Randa is a veteran Nigerian sports journalist with over 20 years of experience covering the beautiful game across Africa. Andrew served as a Media Officer for Nigeria's U-20 Men's National Team for three years, offering a unique perspective on the future stars of Nigerian football. Beyond reporting, Andrew is a pioneer in sports graphics creation within Nigeria. His expertise extends to sports kit design, making him a true multi-faceted talent in the African sports landscape.