Ajax turn down Brighton's bid for Calvin Bassey as Leeds look set to sign Emmanuel Dennis

ENGLISH Premier League side Brighton and Hove Albion have had a £20m bid for Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey turned down by Ajax of Amsterdam just as Leeds United are closing in on a deal for Nottingham Forest's Emmanuel Dennis.

Bassey joined Ajax at the start of last season after a fantastic year with Glasgow Rangers, which included an inspired run to the final of the Uefa Europa League. However, his first season in Amsterdam did not go as he planned and Ajax are open to selling him, which has attracted several suitors already.

Brighton want him to replace Chelsea-owned Levi Colwill and put in a bid of €23m (£19.6m  but their offer was rejected by Ajax. Glasgow Rangers, are due 10% of any amount Ajax sells the versatile Super Eagles’ star for.

Meanwhile, striker Emmanuel Dennis, could be on his way to Leeds United if they agree a good fee with Nottingham Forest. According to Football Insider, Forest are open to a sale just 12 months after signing Dennis from Watford for £20m last summer.

Dennis scored twice and assisted with two goals as the Reds finished 16th in the Premier League upon their return to the top division. However, he way down the Forest pecking order than initially expected, with another Nigerian, Taiwo Awoniyi, taking on the role of central forward option when available.

While at Watford, Dennis scored 10 and assisted six for the Hornets in 2021/22 when the club suffered relegation from the Premier League to the Championship. Now Leeds are targeting a move for the striker, who has spent most of his career playing top flight football, hoping that he can help them regain promotion.