Asante Kotoko have announced the signing of Nigerian forward Wisdom Fernando Bassey on a three-year contract.
The former Akwa United player joins the Porcupine Warriors as a replacement for Bernard Somuah, who has been loaned to Spanish side Celta Fortuna.
Bassey's transfer was finalized on Sunday, August 25, 2024, the final day of the transfer window. He will immediately join the team in Cape Coast, where Asante Kotoko is conducting pre-season preparations for the upcoming campaign.
The 22-year-old winger arrives at Kotoko on a free transfer following the conclusion of his loan spell at Sporting Lagos and the expiration of his contract with Akwa United.
During his time in the Nigerian Professional Football League, Bassey recorded seven goals and eight assists in 76 appearances over seven seasons, representing both Akwa United and Sporting Lagos.
Bassey played a key role in Akwa United's Nigeria Premier Football League title victory in the 2020-21 season, with his impressive performances contributing significantly to their success.
Fernando Bassey becomes the fifth foreign player to join the Ghanaian giants during this transfer window, following the signings of Sudanese duo Esmat Abdulhamid and AbdoelRahman Yoouef Yagoub, Congolese defender Samba O’Neil, and Guinean goalkeeper Mohamed Camara.
What Asante Kotoko fans should be expecting from Fernando Wisdom Bassey
In his first interview with the club’s media, the Nigerian winger expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "I am well aware of the stature of Asante Kotoko and its significance to the supporters.”
“The club has a rich history on the continent, and representing them is a great honor, especially given the shared cultural ties between Ghana and Nigeria.”
"Asante Kotoko is based in Kumasi, a city known for its deep passion for football. The enthusiasm here is unmatched, particularly when Kotoko or the Black Stars play, as seen during the World Cup play-off against Nigeria.”
“I'm thrilled that everything has been finalized, and I look forward to helping my new teammates achieve our goals for the season." he concluded.
Bassey is expected to commence training with the Porcupine Warriors this weekend ahead of their 2024–25 Ghana Premier League opener against Karela United.
