Left-footed Arsenal centre-back likened to Calvin Bassey drawing interest from Ajax Amsterdam

Arsenal’s promising defender, Ayden Heaven, is reportedly attracting interest from Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam ahead of the January transfer window.

The 18-year-old, valued at €300,000 by Transfermarkt, has been likened to Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey for his physicality, versatility, and composure on the ball.

Calvin Bassey, currently playing for Fulham in the Premier League, previously spent a season with Ajax in the Eredivisie. 

The Nigerian defender joined the Dutch giants following a standout campaign with Rangers, where he played a pivotal role in their run to the UEFA Europa League final.

Despite his impressive performances in Scotland, Bassey found it challenging to adapt to life in the Netherlands. 

During his time with Ajax, he made just 39 appearances across all competitions, scored one goal and provided five assists.

After just one season in the Netherlands, Bassey made the move back to England, signing with Fulham to continue his career in the Premier League. 

Despite his challenges at Ajax, he displayed glimpses of his potential, showcasing intelligence, strength, and versatility, qualities that have drawn comparisons to Arsenal's Ayden Heaven.

Meanwhile, Heaven’s contract with Arsenal is set to expire at the end of the season, leaving the teenager free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs in January.

This situation has reportedly caught the attention of Ajax, who are renowned for developing young talent and may see Heaven as a valuable addition to their defensive ranks.

Heaven has been a key figure for Arsenal’s U21 squad in the Premier League 2 this season, featuring in eight matches.

Speaking on the DoneDeal podcast via Voetbal4u, Dutch center-back Kaj Ramsteijn, compared Heaven to Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey, highlighting similarities in their playing styles.

Ramsteijn noted that Heaven’s physicality and willingness to play out from the back are among his strengths. 

However, he suggested that Heaven, while promising, has yet to reach the levels of other young talents like Ajax’s Jorrel Hato.

"He is a left-footed central defender," Kaj Ramstein said. "He is physically strong and dares to really play football, but I did not find it super convincing. Hato is the same age, he does not have that level. Hato is just a super talent."

"If you also compare him to Baas: if you see how easily Baas plays football… Heaven also tries to play football, but with Baas it is much easier. 

"I get a bit of Bassey vibes from him. Heaven can play football better than Bassey, but you just see a chunky Englishman."

As the January transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Heaven chooses to continue his journey in London or embark on a new chapter in Amsterdam.

Adeyemi Adewale

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