Saudi giants Al-Hilal target Nigeria’s most valuable defender ahead of 2025 Club World Cup

Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal are plotting a summer move for Fulham’s Nigerian defender Calvin Bassey as they prepare for the inaugural 2025 Club World Cup, Soccernet.ng understands.

According to reports, the Riyadh-based club, keen to strengthen their defensive ranks, has identified Bassey as a key target following a dip in form from their centre-back pairing of Ali Al-Bulaihi and Kalidou Koulibaly.

With the competition set to feature 32 of the world’s best clubs, Al-Hilal are looking for reinforcements to ensure they can compete at the highest level.

Bassey, 24, has established himself as a mainstay in the Fulham defence since joining from Ajax in 2023 for €22.5 million.

Born in Aosta, Italy, but representing Nigeria since March 2022, Bassey has quickly become one of the most highly rated defenders in Africa.

The Super Eagles star has made 29 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring twice and accumulating over 2,500 minutes on the pitch.

According to reports, Al Hilal have begun discussions with Calvin Bassey's agent regarding a possible transfer.

[ via @FulhamFC]#yallaRSL | #RoshnSaudiLeague | @SPL_EN pic.twitter.com/F6hnRBXH9T

— Arab News | Sport (@ArabNewsSport) March 28, 2025

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Al-Hilal's offer for Nigeria’s Bassey

To lure Nigerian international Calvin Bassey to Saudi Arabia, Africa Foot reported that Al-Hilal are prepared to offer a four-year contract with an optional fifth, along with an annual salary of €8 million.

However, securing Bassey’s signature won’t come cheap, as his contract with Fulham runs until June 2027, and he has a release clause set at €25 million.

Despite Fulham’s reluctance to part with one of their key defenders, Al-Hilal’s financial muscle could prove persuasive. The former Rangers star's ability to play as both a centre-back and full-back makes him a valuable asset.

Bassey’s market value — estimated at €25 million by Transfermarkt — makes him the most valuable Nigerian defender, placing him ahead of Nottingham Forest star Ola Aina (€20 million) and Slavia Prague ace Igoh Ogbu (€8 million).

If the deal goes through, Bassey could form a formidable defensive partnership with Senegal’s Koulibaly, creating a 100% African centre-back duo for Al-Hilal.

With his strength, versatility, and experience on the international stage — having earned 25 caps for Nigeria — the move could mark a significant step in his career.