Fulham plan new Calvin Bassey contract amid Inter Milan interest

Fulham are preparing to open talks with Calvin Bassey over a new long-term contract as they look to secure the future of one of their most important defenders.

The 26-year-old’s current deal is due to expire next summer, but Fulham are in a relatively strong position because they hold an option to extend his contract by another year until June 2028.

That means there is no immediate pressure to reach an agreement, although the Cottagers would prefer to reward Bassey with fresh terms and secure his future beyond the existing arrangement.

Bassey joined Fulham from Ajax in July 2023 and has since established himself as a key member of the first team.

Capable of operating at centre-back and left-back, the Nigeria international was named Fulham’s Player of the Season for 2024/25 and has remained an important player following Álvaro Arbeloa’s appointment.

His physical strength, recovery speed and ability on his left foot make him particularly valuable to the squad.

Bassey has now made 105 appearances for Fulham and, despite the club’s difficult beginning to the new Premier League campaign, remains a regular under Arbeloa.

Talks over a new contract are expected to begin soon, with Bassey understood to be settled in West London and open to extending his stay if suitable terms can be agreed.

Fulham are also aware of interest from elsewhere.

Inter Milan are among the Serie A clubs to have monitored Bassey over several transfer windows, although there is currently no suggestion that the defender is pushing to leave Craven Cottage.

That gives Fulham time to negotiate.

Even if an agreement over a longer contract cannot immediately be reached, activating their existing one-year option would prevent Bassey from approaching the end of his deal and strengthen Fulham’s position should clubs make offers.

For a player who has developed into one of their most dependable performers, a longer extension remains the preferred outcome.

Resolving Bassey’s future would also provide some stability during a difficult opening period under Arbeloa.

Fulham have lost their first three Premier League matches and sit joint-bottom of the table, increasing the early pressure surrounding their new manager.

The club nevertheless appear relaxed about Bassey.

With the contractual option providing protection and the player currently happy at Fulham, there is confidence that his future can be resolved without the situation becoming an immediate concern.

Contract discussions are expected to begin in the coming weeks. Fulham’s existing extension option means they can negotiate from a position of strength, with a new long-term agreement the preferred outcome.