Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal have set their sights on signing Fulham’s Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
With defensive vulnerabilities surfacing this season, Al-Hilal’s management is eager to reinforce their backline.
The partnership of Ali Al-Bulaihi and Kalidou Koulibaly, once considered a defensive stronghold, has shown signs of decline, prompting the club to seek fresh talent.
Bassey, a 25-year-old Nigeria international, has emerged as a prime candidate to strengthen their defensive ranks.
The Riyadh-based club is reportedly keen to secure the services of Bassey, who has 25 caps for Nigeria and is regarded as a key figure in Fulham’s squad.
Having monitored his performances closely, Al-Hilal have now made a formal approach to lure him to Saudi Arabia.
Lucrative offer on the table
To persuade Bassey to make the switch, Al-Hilal has put forward a lucrative four-year contract offer, with an option for a fifth year.
The deal is said to include an annual salary of €8 million, a significant increase from his current wages at Fulham.
The proposal underlines the club’s determination to attract high-profile players ahead of the expanded Club World Cup next year.
Bassey, who was born in Aosta, Italy, has been a key figure for Fulham since joining from Ajax in the summer of 2023.
The Premier League side secured his services for a reported €22.5 million, and he has since made 29 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice in 2,564 minutes of play.
However, with his contract at Craven Cottage running until June 2027 and a €25 million release clause attached to his deal, Al-Hilal will likely have to meet Fulham’s valuation to finalize any potential transfer.
A rising defensive star
Bassey’s reputation has been on the rise since he made his international debut for Nigeria in March 2022.
His versatility, ability to play both as a center-back and a left-back, and his physical presence have made him a sought-after asset.
His performances for Fulham this season have solidified his status as a dependable defender in the English top flight.
As negotiations continue, Al-Hilal remains hopeful of securing Bassey’s signature in what would be another high-profile addition to their squad.
Whether Fulham is willing to part ways with one of their key defenders remains to be seen, but with Saudi clubs continuing to make ambitious moves in the transfer market, this is a deal that could gather momentum in the coming months.
