Galatasaray are preparing to test Fulham’s resolve with a record-breaking bid for Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey in the January transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
The Turkish champions, keen to strengthen their defensive ranks ahead of a busy Champions League schedule, have made the 25-year-old Super Eagles star a prime target. That is according to Turkish outlet, A Spor.
Bassey, valued at €28 million by Transfermarkt, currently holds the record for the most expensive transfer involving a Nigerian defender.
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His name is Calvin Bassey, Iron Breaker ! https://t.co/Z0BYp5OOUc pic.twitter.com/KqA55yCCrK
— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 3, 2025
Ajax paid €23 million to sign him from Rangers in 2022, before Fulham secured his services a year later for €22.5 million. His commanding presence, pace, and composure on the ball have since made him one of the Premier League’s most reliable left-footed centre-backs.
Under contract at Fulham until 2027, with an option for an additional year, Bassey’s departure would require a significant financial commitment.
Galatasaray may need to table an offer approaching €40 million to persuade both Fulham and the player himself.
I will always be a Calvin Bassey stan;
Pace demon, pure power, IQ, very versatile
Solid Defender! pic.twitter.com/0dLQG650Jp
— Jiggy ✞ (@nogojiggy) October 15, 2025
Coach Okan Buruk’s preference for strong, versatile defenders makes Bassey an ideal fit as the club eyes a third consecutive Super Lig title and a strong Champions League campaign.
However, luring him from London will not be easy. After being named Fulham’s Player of the Year last season, Bassey has settled well under Marco Silva and continues to attract praise for his leadership and defensive maturity.
For Galatasaray, though, ambition remains the watchword. Having already shown their mettle in Europe with wins over Bodo Glimt and Liverpool, the Istanbul giants are determined to add star quality.
Whether Bassey becomes their next big statement signing will depend on how far they are willing to push financially, and whether the Nigerian defender is ready to trade the Premier League spotlight for Istanbul’s golden glow.
