Scottish Premiership heavyweights Rangers have confirmed Nigeria international Calvin Bassey has joined Eredivisie side Ajax.
Rangers stated that the 22-year-old has completed a record move and has everyone’s best wishes as he makes the switch.
"Rangers Football Club can today confirm Calvin Bassey has joined Ajax in a deal which is the largest in Rangers’ history," Rangers announced on Wednesday.
"Calvin leaves with best wishes from everyone at Rangers, and we thank him for his hard work and commitment over the past two seasons.
"The 22-year-old joined Rangers from Leicester City for a training compensation fee in the summer of 2020, making 65 appearances for the Light Blues."
Rangers further underscored Bassey’s contribution to them, especially last season.
"Bassey played his part in Rangers’ historic 55th league title victory, won the 2022 Scottish Cup, while also having a huge role in the incredible Uefa Europa League run to the final in Seville last season," the club’s statement continued.
"We wish Calvin all the best for his future career."
While confirming the amount involved in the deal, Ajax further revealed the length of the contract given to their new recruit.
"Ajax has reached an agreement with Rangers FC and Calvin Bassey for the transfer of the defender to Amsterdam," the club confirmed.
"The English-Nigerian player has signed a contract with Ajax that will take effect immediately and will run for five seasons, until June 30, 2027. Ajax will pay a transfer fee of €23 million to Rangers FC. Including variables, that amount could increase to €26.5 million.
Ajax hope Bassey will capably fill the void left by Lisandro Martinez, who completed his move to Manchester United in a £55m deal earlier this week.
Before his move to Rangers, the Nigerian joined Leicester at the age of 15 and, after successful trials, he developed through the club’s youth ranks and had regular appearances for both the U18 and U23 sides.
He made his professional debut for the Scottish giants on August 9 against St Mirren as a substitute as they picked up a 3-0 victory in a league duel.
Bassey was eligible to play for Italy, England, or Nigeria at international level, but chose the Super Eagles over the European nations.
He made his Nigeria debut during a Fifa World Cup qualifier against Ghana on March 25, 2022, a game that ended in a goalless draw.
