Arsenal and Manchester United are interested in Rangers defender Calvin Bassey, but look set to miss out in the race for the defender.
According to The Secret Scout, Arsenal and Manchester United have shown an interest in Rangers defensive mainstay Calvin Bassey, who is set for an exit from the Ibrox this summer. But recent developments suggest that the Premier League giants are set to miss out on the versatile defender.
Formerly of the Leicester City youth academy, Bassey has enjoyed immense success since his move to Rangers in 2020. In just two years at the back, the combative centre-back has racked up 65 competitive appearances, even winning the Scottish Premiership under Steven Gerrard.
Bassey also played a key role in helping Rangers reach the final of the UEFA Europa League last season, only to be beaten by Eintracht Frankfurt. His performances in the continental competition drew a lot of attention, with Manchester United and Arsenal among the clubs to explore the possibility of signing him in the summer.
Although a left-back by trade, Bassey has more or less established himself as a master of all trade and is more than capable of operating as a centre-back. Such versatility is coupled with a strong physique that could make him a tailor-made fit for the Premier League.
Arsenal, for one, have been looking for a physically strong full-back, who can also offer the versatility of operating in a central role. They do have Kieran Tierney in their ranks but the Scot has been extremely unfortunate with injuries. Not to mention, the Gunners are running the risk of losing Gabriel Magalhaes, who is reportedly open to joining Juventus this summer.
Manchester United, meanwhile, are gearing up for the exit of Eric Bailly, who is interested in joining Napoli. Although the Red Devils are closing in on Lisandro Martinez, it appears coach Erik ten Hag also fancies a move for Bassey.
However, neither of these two English giants may emerge victorious in the pursuit of the Rangers defender, as the player could actually surprise everyone by joining Ajax. In fact, a recent report from Fabrizio Romano indicates that the Nigerian international is almost on the verge of sealing a move to Amsterdam this summer, potentially as a replacement for Martinez.
Ajax are already prepared to pay a fee of around €22 million, with the defender set to pen a long-term contract with the Dutch outfit.
