In a surprising turn of events, Dutch football club Ajax Amsterdam has reportedly rejected Brighton’s £20 million bid for Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey. The young talent, who joined Ajax after an impressive season with Glasgow Rangers, endured a challenging first season in Amsterdam as the team finished third in the Eredivisie.
Despite his struggles, Bassey’s performances have attracted the attention of Brighton, who are in search of a replacement for Chelsea-owned Levi Colwil. Initially offering €23 million (£19.6 million), Brighton’s bid was swiftly dismissed by Ajax, leading them to explore alternative options, such as Fiorentina’s Igor, according to reports from the Netherlands.
It is worth noting that Bassey’s former club, Rangers, stands to receive 10 percent of any transfer fee involving the versatile Nigerian star. Ajax, aware of Bassey’s potential and contract that binds him to the club for the next four years, is holding out for a more substantial offer before considering his departure.
Interestingly, Brighton had previously attempted to secure Bassey’s services last summer before he signed with Ajax. However, there remains a possibility that the 23-year-old defender could leave the Dutch side if a suitable fee is agreed upon.
In other transfer news, Super Eagles’ forward Emmanuel Dennis is said to be a target for Leeds United, pending negotiations with Nottingham Forest. Football Insider reports that Forest is open to selling Dennis just a year after acquiring him from Watford for £20 million, following their promotion to the Premier League.
Dennis, who enjoyed a successful stint in the Premier League with Watford, failed to replicate his form and secure sufficient playing time under Steve Cooper’s management at Forest. He made only 19 appearances in the top flight, with a mere six starts, contributing two goals and two assists as Forest finished 16th in their Premier League return.
Surprisingly, Dennis found himself lower in the pecking order than expected, with fellow Nigerian Taiwo Awoniyi often chosen as the central forward option when available. During the 2021-22 season, Dennis showcased his abilities by scoring 10 goals and providing six assists for Watford, despite the club’s relegation from the Premier League to the Championship.
Leeds United has now set their sights on securing the services of the 25-year-old striker, who has predominantly played at the highest level throughout his career. The potential move to Leeds would offer Dennis the opportunity to revive his form and make an impact in the top flight once again.
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