Calvin Bassey: Fulham Star in Transfer Spotlight Amid AFCON 2025 Campaign

Rising Profile of Nigeria’s Defensive Stalwart

Inter Milan are monitoring a potential move for Fulham defender Calvin Bassey, with the Nigeria international attracting growing interest from Serie A during the January transfer window. The 26-year-old has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders since joining Fulham, making his growing reputation across European football hardly surprising.

His impact in west London was immediate, earning him Fulham’s Player of the Year award last season and further enhancing his reputation across Europe. The 26-year-old centre-back, who can also operate effectively at left-back, has been a cornerstone of Marco Silva’s side since joining from Ajax in the summer of 2023 for a reported £19million.

Transfer Speculation Intensifies

Despite the mounting interest from Italy, Fulham have made their position clear. The report adds that Fulham have no intention of allowing the 26-year-old to leave midway through the season, stressing that he remains central to their defensive plans. Bassey’s contract runs until 2027, with the club holding an option to extend by a further year, a position that strengthens their leverage in any negotiations.

Other Italian clubs are also believed to be monitoring the situation, drawn by Bassey’s Premier League experience and international pedigree. However, any move appears unlikely before the end of the season, with Fulham chasing European qualification.

International Duty at AFCON 2025

Meanwhile, Bassey is representing Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Defender Calvin Bassey, arguably the leader of that back four since the departure of William Troost-Ekong not so long ago, and without a doubt the team’s best defender, picked up an unnecessary yellow card with almost the last kick of the game against Mozambique.

Nigeria faced Algeria in the quarter-finals, with Bassey walking a disciplinary tightrope. “So, we are trying to bring the understanding, the chemistry we have with our club side to here and hopefully help the team in any way we can,” Bassey said, highlighting the strong bonds between Fulham teammates on international duty.

What This Means for Fans

For Fulham supporters, Bassey’s rising profile represents both pride and concern. His exceptional performances have been instrumental in the club’s push for European football, but they’ve also attracted attention from Europe’s elite. With Fulham standing firm on their valuation and unwillingness to sell mid-season, fans can expect to see their defensive leader remain at Craven Cottage for the remainder of the campaign. The summer transfer window, however, may present fresh challenges as Inter Milan and other suitors return with concrete offers.