Transfer: Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 star attracts Inter Milan interest

A number of Nigeria internationals are impressing at the 35th edition of the continental showpiece and could be interesting assets on the transfer market 

Serie A giants Inter Milan have joined the race to sign Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey, with the Fulham centre-back’s stock continuing to rise after a commanding Africa Cup of Nations campaign, Soccernet.ng reports.

According to TEAMTalk, former Scudetto winners Inter are among several Italian clubs monitoring the 26-year-old, who has been one of the Super Eagles’ most reliable performers as Nigeria reached the quarter-finals of AFCON 2025.

Bassey’s form for both club and country has not gone unnoticed. Already Fulham’s most valuable defensive asset, the former Rangers and Ajax defender has become a cornerstone of Marco Silva’s side since his £19m move from Ajax in 2023.

His blend of physical power, tactical discipline and comfort in possession has made him one of the Premier League’s most dependable defenders this season.

While Bassey remains fully focused on helping Nigeria push for a fourth continental title, interest is building across Europe, with Inter Milan now seen as his most high-profile admirers.

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Nigeria's Bassey: Inter watching closely, Fulham standing firm

Inter’s interest is believed to be driven by their search for defensive reinforcements as they juggle a tight Serie A title race and Champions League commitments. Christian Chivu’s side want greater depth and reliability at the back, and Bassey’s versatility makes him an attractive target. The former Leicester City lad can operate both at centre-back and left-back.

Other unnamed Italian clubs are also tracking the situation, encouraged by his Premier League experience and strong international pedigree.

However, Fulham have no intention of allowing the defender to leave midway through the season. Bassey is a central part of the project at Craven Cottage, especially with the team pushing for a top-half finish and possible European qualification.

Bassey’s contract runs until 2027, with Fulham holding an option for an extra year, placing the London club in a powerful negotiating position.

Any deal, if it happens, is far more likely to be explored in the summer window rather than in January.

 

 

 

 

 

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The defender’s reputation has been steadily rising since he was named Fulham’s Player of the Year last season, the first Nigerian to be so honoured. Bassey's calmness in build-up play fits perfectly with the tactical demands of elite Italian sides.

For now, though, Fulham’s stand is that Calvin Bassey is not for sale this winter. Inter and their Serie A rivals may yet test that resolve but only when the season is safely out of the way