Pochettino Targets Calvin Bassey In Shock January Move For Manchester United

New Manchester United manager Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly considering a January transfer move for Nigeria international Calvin Bassey as he prepares to overhaul the defensive unit at Old Trafford.

According to British newspaper The Telegraph, the Fulham defender has emerged as a surprise target for Pochettino, who is expected to make strengthening his defence a priority when the January transfer window opens.

The former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager was confirmed last week as Manchester United’s new head coach and is scheduled to take charge on November 18, succeeding Michael Carrick following the club’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.

United have collected just eight points from their opening 10 matches and conceded 19 goals, leaving them in the relegation zone ahead of Pochettino’s first match in charge against Liverpool at Anfield.

Their defensive problems were again exposed in a chaotic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, with Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven eventually forming the centre-back partnership.

Bassey has reportedly caught the attention of the new United manager after establishing himself as an influential figure at Fulham, where he has captained the Cottagers under new manager Alvaro Arbeloa this season.

The 26-year-old’s versatility is understood to be another major attraction, with his ability to operate at left-back potentially offering United an additional solution amid recurring injury problems involving Luke Shaw and concerns over Diogo Dalot’s performances in a makeshift role.

However, securing the Nigerian defender could prove difficult, with Arbeloa determined to retain his services at Craven Cottage.

Bassey has 12 months remaining on his current contract, although Fulham have the option to extend his deal by another year.