Fulham defender and Super Eagles star, Calvin Bassey, has emerged as a key transfer target for Manchester United ahead of the January transfer window.
The Telegraph reported on Sunday that Bassey was expected to feature prominently on the list of players identified by United’s incoming head coach, Mauricio Pochettino, as he prepares to strengthen the club’s defence.
Pochettino is expected to begin work at Old Trafford later this week, with his immediate priority being to move United away from the Premier League relegation zone.
The British newspaper reported that the Argentine would also need to work with the club’s hierarchy to plan for the January transfer window, with defensive reinforcements considered urgent.
Bassey is reportedly a strong option for United after making an impressive start to the season at Fulham. His current contract is due to expire next summer, although the club has the option to extend it by another 12 months.
According to The Telegraph, Bassey’s pace and physical presence could address some of United’s defensive weaknesses. His ability to play at left-back is also considered an advantage, particularly given Luke Shaw’s injury record.
United have conceded 19 goals in their first 10 Premier League matches this season, with only Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town conceding more, the report stated.
READ ALSO:
- Pochettino’s Man Utd to-do list — Report
- Super sub Arokodare’s brace keeps Eagles’ AFCON hopes alive
- Evening recap: Tinubu orders crackdown on thuggery, Super Eagles win, other top stories
Former United captain Gary Neville has described the club’s defence as having “the worst back four in the Premier League”.
The report added that United had conceded 30 goals across all competitions this season, more than any other club in Europe’s top five leagues.
Bassey has captained Fulham under head coach Alvaro Arbeloa this season, with the Spaniard reportedly keen to secure a new contract for the defender.
Arbeloa previously praised the Nigerian after Fulham’s draw with Manchester United at Craven Cottage earlier in the season.
“Calvin is one of the best defenders in the Premier League. He plays at a high level with and without the ball. He is doing so well,” Arbeloa said.
However, The Telegraph reported that Fulham could find it difficult to reject a substantial offer for Bassey in January if the defender does not agree to a new long-term contract before then.
Bassey joined Fulham from Ajax in 2023 after spells at Rangers and Leicester City.
