Manchester United are looking at Fulham‘s Calvin Bassey to strengthen their defence in the winter market.
The Nigeria international played the full 90 minutes in Fulham’s 1-1 draw against the Red Devils at home in September. He maintained his place in the starting lineup after Álvaro Arbeloa replaced Marco Silva in June.
In fact, Bassey has played every minute in the Premier League this season and captained them. The centre-back has ended up on Manchester United’s transfer radar and could leave Fulham as early as January.
Manchester United keeping tabs on Fulham star
The 26-year-old joined the London club from Ajax in 2023 and has played 112 matches so far.
Michael Carrick’s side have the fourth-worst defensive record, having conceded 15 goals from nine league matches. The Old Trafford club are 17th in the table, two points behind 15th placed Fulham.
Manchester United want to bounce back and are looking to strengthen their squad in the next window. For the defence, Footy-Africa now states they are keeping close tabs on the Fulham man.
The Nigerian has showcased his qualities regularly at Fulham. This means he wouldn’t need time to adapt and adjust if the Red Devils were to sign him.
| Every Manchester United signing 26/27 | Previous Club | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Player | From | Estimated Fee / Type |
| Carlos Baleba | Brighton & Hove Albion | £65m |
| Andrey Santos | Chelsea | £48m |
| Youri Tielemans | Aston Villa | £35m |
| Karl Darlow | Leeds United | Free |
Fulham man won’t deny Manchester United interest
A ‘confidant’ of Calvin Bassey told Footy-Africa that Manchester United have been keen on signing him since the summer. The said confidant works with the Fulham man with the national team.
“The interest in Bassey has been there since last season, when in my opinion he became one of the best defenders in the Premier League,” he said.
“He is big, strong, very physical and has leadership attributes, which has seen him lead Fulham this season wearing the armband.”
He even asked the defender about Manchester United’s interest.
“It is no surprise Manchester United want to sign him, and they are not the only team. But when I spoke to him, he did not deny nor confirm the news,” the confidant explained.
Bassey’s contract expires in 2027, with Álvaro Arbeloa’s side having an option for another year. Transfermarkt value him at €28m, the highest of his career so far.
The report doesn’t mention Fulham’s stance on letting him leave, especially in January. The London club may have to decide if Manchester United were to make a strong push to sign Bassey.
