Calvin Bassey joins Fulham from Ajax

Fulham have completed a transfer move for Calvin Bassey from Ajax, in a deal worth £18.9 million for the defender. The 23-year-old versatile defender came through the ranks at Leicester City, before making a move North to join Glasgow Rangers. A transfer to Ajax followed last summer, and after 25 Eredivisie appearances, his performances have persuaded Fulham to spend big to sign the player.

Comfortable playing as either a left-back or centre-back, his versatility will be important for the Cottagers who have so far had a difficult transfer window with uncertainty over the long-term future of several players and even manager Marco Silva.

Fulham owner Shahid Khan has moved swiftly to procure one of Europe's best young defenders in Bassey.

The 6 foot 1 defender has played for Nigeria's national side 10 times already, and is hopeful that impressing in England will guarantee further national side recognition.

A statement on the Cottagers' site read: "The Club is delighted to confirm the signing of Calvin Bassey from Ajax for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance, which is expected to be received during the early part of next week."

In an interview with the player, Bassey said: "I know how big of a club Fulham is. They always have quality players, they’re playing in the Premier League, the best league in the world, so I didn’t have to think much about it."