Rangers recoup record transfer fee as Aston Villa target Calvin Bassey completes Ajax switch

Rangers defender Calvin Bassey has joined Dutch giants Ajax in a record £22.6million sale for the Scottish Premiership club.

The 22-year-old has signed a five-year deal with the Eredivisie champions after the two sides agreed a fee of around £19.6m, which could rise to £22.6m with add-ons.

A statement on the Dutch outfit’s official website said: “Ajax has reached an agreement with Rangers and Calvin Bassey for the transfer of the defender to Amsterdam.

“The English-Nigerian player has signed a contract with Ajax that will take effect immediately. I will run for five seasons, until June 30 2027.”

Bassey, who joined Rangers from Leicester in return for a training compensation fee during the summer of 2020, won the league title and the Scottish Cup during his time at Ibrox. He also played a major part in last season’s run to the Europa League final.

That led to strong speculation of a move to England, with Aston Villa among the clubs interested.

However, Villa’s capture of Diego Carlos likely put an end to those links and Bassey has ended up in Amsterdam.

Bassey heroics earn big-money move

A statement on the Glasgow club’s official website said: “Rangers can today confirm Calvin Bassey has joined Ajax in a deal which is the largest in Rangers’ history.

“Calvin leaves with best wishes from everyone at Rangers. We thank him for his hard work and commitment over the past two seasons.

“Bassey played his part in Rangers’ historic 55th league title victory and won the 2022 Scottish Cup. He also had a huge role in the incredible Europa League run to the final in Seville last season.

“We wish Calvin all the best for his future career.”

Rangers have already acted on the sale of Bassey by bringing in Liverpool’s Ben Davies.

The 26-year-old has arrived for a fee which could rise to £4m, having never made a senior Reds appearance.

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