Fenerbahce targets Bassey for summer transfer

Fenerbahce presidential candidate Aziz Yildirim has picked Fulham’s Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey as the club’s top target for defense this summer. The focus is on players from the Premier League, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

Reports from Turkey (@Fenerbook1 on X) say Yildirim and his scouting team see Bassey as the best choice for left centre-back. They are also looking at Senegalese full-back Malick Diouf for left-back. Manchester City winger Savinho is among the attacking players they are considering.

Bassey joined Fulham from Ajax in the summer of 2023. He has played 100 matches for the Cottagers and scored four goals.

Born in Italy to Nigerian parents, the 26-year-old developed at Leicester City’s academy. He made his name at Rangers, winning the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup. His performances for the Super Eagles have also earned him praise. Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has called him one of Africa’s top defenders.

But getting Bassey will not be easy. He is under contract with Fulham until 2027. The club also has the option to extend his contract by another year. This gives Fulham a strong position in any talks since Bassey is seen as a key player in the team.

Yildirim, who was Fenerbahce president for 20 years from February 1998 to June 2018, is back in the presidential race. He has promised to bring in top talent from the Premier League if he is elected again.