Inter Milan step up their interest in Calvin Bassey as he gets set to face Algeria tonight

SERIE A giants Inter Milan have stepped up their interest in Super Eagles centreback Calvin Bassey with a view to purchasing him from English Premier league side Fulham during the current transfer window.

Bassey, 26, who is currently with the Nigerian national team at the African Cup of Nations in Morocco, has been one of the standout defenders in the English Premier League this season. He has also taken that form to the Super Eagles, where he is now the lynchpin of Nigeria's defence, serving as the leader at the back following the retirement of former skipper William Ekong.

With the football transfer window now open until January 31, Inter Milan have apparently stepped up their interest in Bassey, as have several other Italian sides. Bassey has been a cornerstone of Marco Silva’s side since joining from Ajax in the summer of 2023 for a fee reported to be around £19m, so Fulham will be expecting a lot more for him than that.

Bassey's versatility, physical presence and composure on the ball have made him indispensable at Craven Cottage, particularly as Fulham navigate a demanding Premier League campaign compounded by injuries and international commitments. Fulham sources have pointed out that the club has no desire to sanction a mid-season departure, as it views Bassey as a key component of their defensive setup and long-term plans.

Inter's interest is understood to stem from their ongoing search for defensive reinforcements, as the club aims to bolster its depth amid a tight Scudetto race and Champions League commitments. However, any potential move appears more likely in the summer rather than this month as Fulham are pushing for European qualification and will be reluctant to weaken their squad during a crucial period.

Bassey’s contract runs until 2027, with the club holding an option for an additional year, giving Fulham strong negotiating power. As the transfer window progresses, Inter and their Serie A rivals may test Fulham’s resolve but for now, the London club are focused on retaining their star defender through the second half of the season.

Later on today, Bassey will file out with the Super Eagles in Marrakesh, as they face Algeria in the quarter finals of the African Cup on Nations. Nigeria is hoping to win a fourth African Cup of Nations title in Morocco.