Tuesday Fulham Stuff (24/07/18)...

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Jose Fonte would be a wonderfully astute signing for Fulham this summer

Fulham fans can't wait for their first season back in the Premier League to begin.

The Cottagers earned promotion by defeating Aston Villa in the play-off final to cap a wonderful Championship campaign. Slavisa Jokanovic won plenty of praise for his style of play at Craven Cottage, and his side will now get the chance to showcase their talents at the highest level. With a gruelling season ahead, Jokanovic has been active in the transfer market.

Fulham completed a huge £27m deal for Jean Michael Seri, under the noses of Arsenal and Tottenham, which could prove to be one of the signings of the summer. French defender, Maxime le Marchand, also completed a £2m deal from Nice. If Fulham are to survive, more signings are needed.

One man, the Cottagers, should consider signing is former Southampton defender – Jose Fonte. Valued at £1.8m by Transfermarkt, the Portugal international has terminated his contract at Chinese club, Dalian Yifang. Available on a free transfer, Fulham would be wise to bring him to Craven Cottage.

The 34-year-old is a Premier League veteran, and his experience would be crucial in an extremely young squad. Fulham also lack depth at centre-back, and Fonte could prove to be a useful backup option. The former West Ham defender also has experience at international level, starting all four of Portugal's World Cup fixtures.

While it may not be a signing to get fans off their seat, it could prove to be very smart business.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/jose-fonte-would-be-a-wonderfully-astute-signing-for-fulham-this-summer/

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Away Days: Part Four

Four Fulham fans provide some insight as to what trips to Burnley, Crystal Palace, West Ham United and Southampton will entail.

Billy Murphy: Burnley v Fulham (Turf Moor) – Saturday 12th January

Turf Moor; mention it to even the most optimistic of Fulham fans and they'd likely shudder and struggle to predict a Fulham victory there given our record of one win in 28 attempts, a meagre 67 years ago. Needless to say, good memories there are few and far between, but it is an old school stadium to go and watch a generally well organised team play their football. With the away fans situated behind the goal, it will make for some nice celebrations when we get a result there this season – though with Burnley being backed by a normally vociferous home crowd it's a game that promises to be as intensely fought off the pitch as it is on it. Away from the footballing side, there's a good selection of Northern grub in the ground with a range of pies on offer, and the nearby cricket club (a five minute walk away) is a decent place for some pre-match nerve settling.

Jack Collins: Crystal Palace v Fulham (Selhurst Park) – Saturday 2nd February

Crystal Palace's home ground is a strange mix of the old and the new, with two nicely old-school stands on the sides of the pitch combining with newer offerings at either end, the most famous of which is the Holmesdale End, which houses Palace's 'Ultras' group and their drum. Getting to Palace is reasonably easy - trains run to Norwood Junction or Selhurst from Clapham Junction, London Bridge, West Brompton or even Shepherd's Bush. With limited pubs nearby, your best bet may well be to drink in West or Central London before heading south to Selhurst. Away fans are housed in the Arthur Wait stand, which is spacious enough but does have some factors which limit views - seats towards the back are obstructed a tad by an overhanging roof and some pylons. But ultimately Selhurst Park is an away day with an nostalgic feel, and one which has provided Fulham with plenty of wonderful memories down the years - most notably being the birthplace of probably the finest goal of the first era of Premier League Fulham - Pajtim Kasami's wonder strike.

Dean Jones: West Ham United v Fulham (London Stadium) – Saturday 23rd February

Easier to access by tube than Upton Park but West Ham's new location still has its issues. Be prepared for a long dull walk from the station to stadium — and then a bland concrete venue with a lack of atmosphere. Many moan about the views and crowd noise but for away fans it's actually not too bad, with a decent upper and lower section situated towards one corner.

Ian McCulloch: Southampton v Fulham (St Mary's Stadium) – Wednesday 27th February

After spending all these years caught up in a love affair with the wonderful Cottage, I have to confess I'm not a big fan of the modern identikit stadium, but Southampton's St Mary's is definitely one of the better ones. There's a good atmosphere, the crowd are noisy without directing too much animosity towards the away end, and the view's good. It's probably been one of my favourite away days over the years, not a patch on the quirky old Dell of course, but it's an easy drive, parking's good, and after a nice drink at the picturesque marina, it's a short walk to the ground. Unfortunately we've yet to win at St Mary's, unlike the Dell where we did have some good results over the years. One of the absolute best was that famous Wednesday night in September 1998 when Kevin Keegan's third tier upstarts outplayed their Premier League opponents to unceremoniously dump them out of the League Cup. I think that was when it dawned on us that our humble club really was going places. No wonder I have happy memories of the place.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2018/july/23/away-days-part-four

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What is happening with Fulham's move for Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic?

The striker returns from holiday this week and Fulham are hoping to conclude a deal for the 23-year-old

There are just over two weeks until the Summer Transfer Window shuts on August 9 - and the return of Aleksandar Mitrovic to Fulham is yet to be completed.

The Newcastle United striker joined the Cottagers on loan on Deadline Day in January and went on to smash in 12 goals as the club won promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs, with a 1-0 win over Aston Villa securing their place back in the top flight.

A move that fans, manager and player alike wanted to happen was Mitrovic's return to west London, but so far that hasn't materialised due to various reasons.

With just 17 days left in the window and only two players signed ahead of next season, Fulham's recruitment drive is set to move into top gear as Tony Khan and the recruitment team look to secure their targets - and Mitrovic is one of them.

But why is it taking so long if Mitrovic and Fulham want a deal to happen?

Well, firstly, there was Mitrovic's participation in Serbia's World Cup campaign, which didn't end until June 27 when they went out at the group stage thanks to a 2-0 defeat to Brazil.

His parent club had hoped a strong competition would allow them to increase his price tag, but the 23-year-old only scored the one goal for his country.


(Image: Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

He then headed out on holiday - but a deal should be concluded once he returns from his break, with our colleagues at Chronicle Live saying that return date is scheduled for midweek.

It's believed a deal for the striker is done between the two clubs, with Fulham paying the £20million fee to Newcastle in instalments, although a medical is still to be completed.

Meanwhile, Fulham are set to announce the signing of Besiktas keeper Fabri ahead of the new season to provide competition for Marcus Bettinelli - a deal which should also see Marek Rodak head out on loan.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/what-happening-fulhams-move-newcastle-14940269

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27-year-old could snub Premier League interest to complete Hull City move

Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Oliver Norwood could set to reject the chance to return to Fulham on a permanent basis in favour of moving to Hull City instead, according to The Mirror's Live Transfer Blog [Sunday 22nd July, 22:17].

Fulham were hoping to sign him for £1.5m following his loan spell at Craven Cottage last year but Norwood sees more first-team opportunities at Hull.

The Tigers are keen on both Norwood and his Brighton team-mate Jiri Skalak as Nigel Adkins eyes a summer revamp at the KCOM Stadium.

Norwood played 41 games for Fulham in their promotion winning campaign but was largely used as a substitute towards the end of the season.

With the Cottagers now playing Premier League football, the 27-year-old is concerned about his playing time.

Hull are now looking more likely to sign the Northern Ireland international, who started his career at Manchester United before spells with Huddersfield Town and Reading.

The Verdict

Norwood will provide Hull with a like-for-like replacement for Seb Larsson.

The midfield man is a ball player with a nice range of passing, the ability to hit the odd spectacular long-range effort and he is a threat from set-pieces.

At Championship level, Norwood is a shrewd acquisition, especially at this price.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/27-year-old-could-snub-premier-league-interest-to-complete-hull-city-move/

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Reported deal agreed between Newcastle and Fulham for Aleksandar Mitrovic with medical due

Aleksandar Mitrovic will go to Fulham for a medical when arriving back in UK with transfer already agreed, according to media on Monday.

News from London on Monday morning that a deal for Aleksandar Mitrovic to move to Fulham has reportedly already been agreed.

The 23 year old striker is due back in the UK this week (previously reported by the Chronicle he is due back at Newcastle on Wednesday 25 July) but according to Football.London, instead of Newcastle United's training ground he will be making his way to London.

They report that their understanding is that a deal has already been agreed between the two club.

A transfer fee of £20m having been settled on, with as usual Mike Ashley insisting on it being paid in instalments.

With Besiktas goalkeeper Fabri also set to sign for Fulham, it would take the promoted club's net spending to over £50m when Mitrovic is included, with also other targets still to be pursued.

As for Rafa Benitez, he is waiting for players to be sold before he is allowed to buy any players, so hopefully at the very least he will get a striker in if/when Mitro eventually departs.

With a medical at Fulham apparently set for midweek, that then gives only two weeks at the most before the transfer window closes.

Despite the savage restraints Mike Ashley has imposed on the manager's ambitions this transfer window, last week Rafa Benitez did say he was at least confident he would get a striker.

That increasingly looks likely to be Salomon Rondon, with Mitrovic' departure very likely waited for before that deal with West Brom can be confirmed.

Monday morning has also seen the Chronicle claiming that Rafa wants at least one more signing before the club leave for Portugal later this week, with games against Porto on Saturday (21 July) and Braga next Wednesday (1 August) to come.

If indeed Newcastle are to have a new main striker for the new season, little doubt that Rafa will want him involved in as much of these last two and a half weeks of pre-season as possible.

Football.london:

'It's believed a deal for the striker (Aleksandar Mitrovic) is done between the two clubs.

'With Fulham paying the £20million fee to Newcastle in instalments, although a medical is still to be completed.'



https://www.themag.co.uk/2018/07/reported-deal-agreed-between-newcastle-and-fulham-for-aleksandar-mitrovic-with-medical-due-nwcastle-united/

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Three Premier League clubs are 'in the ranks' to sign Clement Grenier, move very close to happening

Everton, Fulham and Newcastle United are all 'in the ranks' to sign Clement Grenier, according to Monday's edition of L'Equipe.

The midfielder moved to Guingamp from Lyon and had a good second half the season. In 15 Ligue 1 appearances, the 27 year old managed five goals and four assists and that has caught the eye of interested clubs.

L'Equipe take quotes from Guingamp manager Antoine Kombouaré who believes a move is happening soon. The midfielder is "about to leave" and his club don't want to take chances by playing him in friendly matches, just in case he gets injured and ruins a potential transfer and good fee for the Brittany side.

Everton, Fulham and Newcastle are all being linked with many players around Europe in the current market.

Marco Silva and Marcel Brands are trying to build for a better season at Goodison Park, and Rafael Benitez is trying to magic up any transfer funds he can get his hands on.

Fulham have already done some impressive business in France and Slaviša Jokanović may feel that's a market where the value lies.

There's no mention from L'Equipe of what a potential transfer fee would be.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/three-premier-league-clubs-ranks-sign-clement-grenier-move-close-happening/

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Who is Fabri? The goalkeeper set to join Fulham who burst into tears in a Champions League tie

The 30-year-old is set to join Fulham from Besiktas - here's all you need to know about the keeper

Fulham are set to announce the signing of Besiktas goalkeeper Fabricio Ramirez as they continue to boost their squad ahead of the Premier League season.

The 30-year-old will join Fulham in a move worth a reported £5million after David Button left Craven Cottage for fellow top flight side Brighton and Hove Albion, and is set to provide competition for Marcus Bettinelli.

He's well known to Fulham's goalkeeping coach, Jose Sambede, who has worked with Fabri at both Deportivo La Coruna and Besiktas, and it's that link that has seen the recruitment team break with their U28 rule on transfers in this instance.

Here's all you need to know about the next signing at Fulham.

Career so far

Fabri started his career at Las Palmas side UD Vecindario, Deportivo signed him and he made his La Liga debut for the club in January 2008 during a 4-3 loss to Villarreal.

Arsenal were reported to be interested in his signature in 2008, but a move never materialised and Fabri was eventually released by Deportivo in 2009, joining Valladolid before signing for Recreativo on a season-long loan deal.

He then signed for Real Betis in 2011 but a run-in with manager Pepe Mel meant he was relegated to third choice keeper, eventually leaving the club in 2013 and returning to Deportivo La Coruna.

A first move abroad to Besiktas beckoned in 2016, where he spent two seasons before coming over to London.


Fabri of Besiktas during the UEFA Champions League match between SSC Napoli and Besiktas JK (Image: Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

Does he fit the bill?

Fulham want Fabri to provide Bettinelli with some stiff competition in the Premier League this season, and with Champions League experience under his belt he will certainly do that.

A strong shot stopper and good in one-on-one situations, Fabri will be hoping to claim the number one jersey for himself in the coming season.

He's good with the ball at feet and will fit in with the squad, with Spanish not being much of a barrier for the signing with Slavisa Jokanovic fluent in the language, as are most of the coaching staff.

He also knows goalkeeping coach Sambede extremely well, having worked with him at both Deportivo and Besiktas.

What's been said about the move?

Fabri has previously said: "As you know the Premier League is a major league and one I am interested in joining.

"Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing but there is a verbal agreement with Fulham. I want to thank Besiktas for my time here."

Meanwhile, Besiktas manager Senol Gunes has said: "If Fabri leaves we are going to have to sign someone else with the money.

"But if we receive a good offer and he wants to leave well there is nothing I can do. Every player has a price."

And an interesting fact?

Fabri is infamous for bursting into tears in Besiktas' 6-0 loss to Dynamo Kiev in the Champions League in 2016.

The Turkish club needed to win or draw to qualify, but were 4-0 down at half time and it all became too much for Fabri, who burst into tears during the game.

They went on to lose 6-0.




https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/who-fabri-goalkeeper-set-join-14940468

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Where would Andre Schurrle fit in were Fulham to sign the Borussia Dortmund winger?

Fulham have been linked with the former Chelsea man - we've taken a look at where he might fit into the side at the Cottage

Fulham are continuing to build their side as they prepare for the Premier League, with the latest name linked with the side being former Chelsea man Andre Schurrle.

German publication Bild have claimed that the Whites, along with Crystal Palace, have enquired about the attacker who left Borussia Dortmund's training camp in America to talk to potential new clubs last week.

They claim that Schurrle is keen on a move back to London, where he spent two years between 2013 and 2015 before leaving for Wolfsburg, which is where Dortmund plucked him for a huge £26.5million fee.

He's struggled at the Westfalenstadion since then and now looks set to be on his way out, but where would the German World Cup winner fit into Slavisa Jokanovic's side?

If we take a look at Schurrle's favoured position, the answer becomes a bit murky.

Schurrle is best utilised out on the left, beating men and cutting in onto his right foot to cause havoc, something we saw him do to devastating effect to Brazil in the 2014 World Cup semi final when he scored twice in that 7-1 victory.

But that isn't a position where Fulham need to strengthen - Ryan Sessegnon looks almost certain to play left forward after scoring 16 goals last season in the Championship, while the club are still looking to sign a left back, although new signing Maxime Le Marchand can also play in that position.

Unless Sessegnon moves to left back, which would leave Fulham with a back four of Sessegnon - Le Marchand - Tim Ream - Cyrus Christie, it's hard to Schurrle playing in his favoured position.


Andre Schurrle is currently playing for Borussia Dortmund (Photo by Alexandre Simoes/Borussia Dortmund/Getty Images)

That leaves the right side of attack, which is a position that needs depth ahead of the Premier League season.

Jokanovic played Aboubakar Kamara there towards the end of the season and used him there once again in the 4-0 defeat to Lyon, with the first-half side looking likely to be the one that starts against Palace on August 11 if this squad had no new players come in between now and then.

Schurrle could be used out there if he was signed, but his ability to cut in would be diminished, although Jokanovic's side used the wings to get balls into the box or to cut them back to the edge of the area last season and that style of play will most likely continue this season.

That right forward area is one that needs strengthening and if Fulham could get a cut-price deal over the line for Schurrle, it may turn out to be a good signing in the end.

However, Jokanovic expects his forward players to track back and muck in defensively - something Lucas Piazon did well out on that right last season and Schurrle has indicated in the past an unwillingness to play as a wing back.

All in all, the fact that Fulham are being linked with World Cup winners shows their ambition this season, especially after the signing of Jean-Michael Seri, but Schurrle isn't what the side need heading into the final two weeks of the transfer window.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/would-andre-schurrle-fit-were-14940639

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RUMOUR Fulham lining up £26m bid for Real Sociedad striker Willian Jose ace as alternative to Aleksandar Mitrovic

Everton had been previously looking at the 26-year-old

Fulham are lining up a £26million bid for Real Sociedad striker Willian Jose as an alternative to Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Craven Cottage manager Slavisa Jokanovic wanted Mitrovic to sign permanently, having had him on loan from Newcastle last season and helping the club get promoted to the Premier League but a deal is yet to be sorted.

Fulham will now wait to see if their offer has been accepted before pressing ahead with a deal, according to SunSport.

Jose has emerged as a player equally capable of providing firepower to the front line following three successful seasons in La Liga.

He scored 20 goals in all competitions last season and was called into Brazil's squad for the March friendlies against Russia and Germany.


Jose was called into the Brazil squad for friendlies ahead of the World Cup but did not make the final squad

"I was surprised to be in the last squad before the World Cup, but it happened to me. People can say what they want, but many do not follow my games," he said at the time.

"In 31 games, I have 18 goals in the season, a very good average for a centre-forward who does not play for one of the big teams in Europe.

"People have to follow up more, they are looking only for what I did or did not do five years ago."

Everton were tracking Jose last summer, but added Sandro Ramirez and Wayne Rooney to their attack instead.




https://talksport.com/football/402757/fulham-lining-up-26m-bid-for-real-sociedad-striker-willian-jose-ace-as-alternative-to-aleksandar-mitrovic/

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Fulham made joint-favourites to sign Danny Welbeck with Southampton among other main contenders

Fulham and Southampton feature highly in the betting to become the Arsenal striker's next club.

Fulham have been installed as joint-favourites to sign Danny Welbeck this summer, with Southampton among the other main contenders after Bet Victor opened a market on the Arsenal striker's next club.

Welbeck is being tipped to depart the Emirates Stadium, where he recently entered the final 12 months of his contract - four years after his £18 million move from Manchester United.

Everton and Newcastle United have already been credited with interest in the England international, and the pair unsurprisingly feature prominently in the betting - at 4/1 and 6/1 respectively.

But a trio of yet-to-be-linked clubs, in Fulham (4/1), Southampton and Watford (both 6/1), are also in the mix, according to Bet Victor.

All three are said to be in the market for strikers, with Fulham continuing to target Newcastle's Aleksandar Mitrovic, Southampton chasing Liverpool's Danny Ings and Watford looking at Burnley's Sam Vokes, according to reports this summer.

The chance to remain in the London area could appeal to Welbeck, however, in which case Fulham and Watford - whose training facility neighbours that of Arsenal - could have the edge on Everton, Newcastle and Southampton.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/23/fulham-made-joint-favourites-to-sign-danny-welbeck-with-southamp/

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Report: Fabricio undergoing Fulham medical now, deal worth almost £5m

Fulham are reportedly set to sign Besiktas goalkeeper Fabricio.

According to Sky Sports, Besiktas goalkeeper Fabricio is currently undergoing a medical with Fulham ahead of completing a move worth nearly £5million.

Fulham have added Nice duo Maxime Le Marchand and Jean Seri in a huge double swoop, but Slavisa Jokanovic's squad is thin, and a number of signings are still needed.

David Button has been allowed to join Brighton and Hove Albion, meaning Marcus Bettinelli is the only recognised goalkeeper at Jokanovic's disposal – well, for now at least.

Sky Sports report that Fulham have now agreed a deal worth almost £5million for Besiktas goalkeeper Fabricio, and he is currently undergoing a medical with the Cottagers ahead of completing his move.

The goalkeeper has agreed personal terms and everything is in place for him to be confirmed as a Fulham player imminently, marking another coup for Jokanovic and co.

The 30-year-old had spells in Spain with Deportivo La Coruna, Las Palmas, Real Valladolid, Recreativo and Real Betis before returning to Deportivo in 2013, and then earning a move to Besiktas in 2016.

Since making his move to Turkey, the Spaniard has starred, making more than 85 appearances and becoming the undoubted first-choice goalkeeper with the Super Lig side.

Now set for a move to the Premier League, Fabricio will provide experienced competition for Bettinelli, and they will fight it out for the starting role ahead of the new Premier League season.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/23/report-fabricio-undergoing-fulham-medical-now-deal-worth-almost/

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Fulham make £26m move for Jose

ulham have offered £26m for Real Sociedad's Brazilian striker Willian Jose, according to reports this afternoon.

The Sun suggests the Whites have identified the 26 year-old as a potential striking alternative to Newcastle's Aleksandar Mitrovic as a deal to sign the Serbian forward has still not been completed. Reports this morning claimed that Fulham were hopeful that they could finalise Mitrovic's permanent move to Craven Cottage by the end of this week and it is plausible that the interest in Jose could be to add depth to Slavisa Jokanovic's attacking options.

Jose has enjoyed three prolific seasons in Spain's top flight, most recently scoring 34 goals in 74 games for Sociedad. He began his La Liga career with 10 goals in 38 appearances with newly-promoted Las Palmas and has significant pedigree in the Spanish game having signed for Real Madrid in 2014.

The 6 ft 2 1?2 in striker made a name for his himself in youth football, starring as the Brazilian under 20 side won both the South American championship and the World Cup in 2011. A year later, he helped São Paulo win the Copa Sudamericana. Jose's recent form saw him called up to the Brazilian senior squad for the friendlies against Russia and Germany in March, but he did not win a full cap. The Sun's report says that Fulham are waiting to see whether their offer has been accepted by Sociedad.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-make-26m-move-for-jose/

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Fabri in Fulham medical ahead of move from Besiktas

Besiktas goalkeeper Fabri is undergoing a medical ahead of a £5m switch to Fulham, Sky Sports News understands.

Last week Sky Sports News reported Fulham were close to agreeing a deal with the Turkish club, with a fee agreed over the weekend, after the departure of David Button to Premier League rivals Brighton.

Fabri, 30, told reporters in Turkey that he had already agreed personal terms.

He said: "As you know the Premier League is a major league and one I am interested in joining. Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing but there is a verbal agreement with Fulham. I want to thank Besiktas for my time here."

The Spaniard kept 12 clean sheets last season as Besiktas finished fourth in the Turkish Super Lig.

Fulham have already been active in this transfer window, signing Nice pair Jean Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand for a combined fee in excess of £30m.

Fulham have also been linked with Young Boys defender Kevin Mbabu but face competition from FC Basel for his signature.



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11446336/fabri-in-fulham-medical-ahead-of-move-from-besiktas

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Report: Fulham make £26m Willian Jose bid with Mitrovic move uncertain

Premier League newcomers Fulham reportedly want Newcastle United's Aleksandr Mitrovic but will take Real Sociedad's Willian Jose, too

Fulham's attempts to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic from Newcastle United have rumbled on for so long that the Premier League newcomers now appear to be pressing ahead with alternative options.

According to the Sun, a deal for Mitrovic is yet to be agreed, with the Magpies hoping to earn as much money as possible from the sale of their Serbian striker. The former Anderlecht man spent the second half of last season at Craven Cottage, scoring 12 goals to help fire Fulham back to the Premier League.

The Sun, however, is now reporting that Fulham are stepping up their pursuit of Real Sociedad's Willian Jose, with Mitrovic's future hanging in the balance.

Jose, like Mitrovic, is something of an old-school throwback of a centre-forward, an aggressive and combative striker who thrives with his back to goal.

The Brazilian, who made one appearance in La Liga for Real Madrid in 2013/14, scored 20 goals in all competitions for Sociedad last season; an average of one in two.

The report goes so far as to say that Fulham have made a £26 million bid; and it remains to be seen where this would leave Mitrovic should La Real accept their offer.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/23/do-report-fulham-make-26m-willian-jose-bid-with-mitrovic-move-un/

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Fabri having Fulham medical

Spanish goalkeeper Fabri is having a medical at Fulham today ahead of his proposed move from Besiktas.

Fulham and the Turkish club have agreed a fee of just over £5m for the experienced goalkeeper and Fabri has revealed to Turkish journalists that he has successfully finalised personal terms with the Premier League new boys. Fabri flew to London yesterday and was spotted at Fulham's Motspur Park training ground earlier today. The 30 year-old goalkeeper has been recommended by Fulham by their goalkeeping coach Jose Sambede, who has worked with him at Besiktas and Deportivo La Coruna. He will battle Marcus Bettinelli, who established himself as Slavisa Jokanovic's first choice goalkeeper during the second half of last season, for the number one shirt at Craven Cottage.

Fulham moved quickly to secure an experienced goalkeeper after allowing David Button to join Brighton and Hove Albion last week. Fabri quickly became a popular figure with the Besiktas fans after helping the club win their first domestic title in thirteen years in his first season in Istanbul. He then starred as the Turkish club sprung a major surprise by topping their Champions' League qualifying group last season. Fabri kept 27 clean sheets in 87 appearances for Beskitas, conceding 94 goals. He has the highest save percentage – almost 75% – of any goalkeeper in the Super Lig since making his debut for Besiktas in August 2016.

He will shortly become Fulham's third summer signing since the Whites won promotion back to the top flight, joining French pair Jean-Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand in making the move to west London.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fabri-having-fulham-medical/

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Newcastle United left sweating on Aleksandar Mitrovic deal as Fulham consider other options

The Magpies want £20million for Mitrovic but Fulham yet to agree deal with Lee Charnley

Newcastle United are sweating on Aleksandar Mitrovic 's £20million move to Fulham after the Cottagers were today linked with Brazilian striker Willian Jose.

Mitrovic wanted his future sorted last week before an awkward and unwanted link-up back at United's Benton base this Wednesday.

But a deal has still not been agreed with the Craven Cottage side and Mitrovic is now 48 hours away from returning to Tyneside.

Mitrovic has been on holiday after his efforts for Serbia at the World Cup finals in Russia with the striker granted extra time off for playing in the tournament.

Mitrovic does not have a future under Rafa Benitez but Fulham - who have been dealing with managing director Lee Charnley on the deal - are now considering other options.

Fulham have bid £26million for Jose and the Real Sociedad star is keen on the move to England.

Were the sale of Mitrovic to collapse it would be a hammer blow for Benitez who knows he has to sell to buy as long as a contract extension isn't agreed. Mitrovic was a target of Anderlecht earlier in the summer but no deal could be agreed.



https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/newcastle-united-left-sweating-aleksandar-14942598

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Fulham, Palace, Everton or Lazio? Where next for former Chelsea forward André Schürrle?

Latest transfer news involves the future of former Chelsea man André Schürrle

It is pretty clear that former Chelsea forward André Schürrle will be on the move in the coming days.

But where will he end up, with Crystal Palace, Fulham, Everton and Lazio among the clubs said to be interested in signing the German, who was part of the World Cup-winning squad in 2014.

The 27-year-old has been at Dortmund for the past two years, but the Bundesliga side announced on Saturday that he would not be involved against Manchester City during their tour of the United States of America to hold talks with an unnamed club over his future.

Reports in Germany suggested that Schürrle was likely to return to the Premier League, having scored 11 goals in 44 Premier League games during a spell at Chelsea between 2013 and 2015.

Palace, who were previously linked with a move to sign Schürrle in January, are one of the clubs being heavily linked, along with Premier League rivals Fulham and Everton.

But Italian publication Il Tempo reports that Lazio are also in the battle to sign the 27-year-old, who has played 33 times for Dortmund during his two seasons with the club.

So where is the most likely destination for Schürrle?

We take a look at the four clubs, below.

Crystal Palace

This is not the first time that the Eagles have been linked with a move to sign Schürrle.

The former Chelsea man was a reported target in January, and the latest reports suggest that Palace have revived their interest now.

But Eagles boss Roy Hodgson has spoken of the budget restrictions that the club are working with in the current transfer window, and a reported price tag of €20m could perhaps be too much for them.

It has been reported in Germany that Dortmund are interested in signing Palace star Wilfried Zaha, but the Eagles' stance has been clear that he is not for sale.

And with Schürrle also a left-sided winger, who can also play as a forward, it is hard to see how Zaha and Schürrle would fit into the same team.

Fulham

German publication Bild have claimed that the Whites have enquired about the attacker, with the report claiming that Schürrle is keen on a move back to London.

But like Palace, Fulham have a star man playing in a similar position to Schürrle's favoured position in Ryan Sessegnon.

Like Zaha, he is a coveted player, but Fulham are keen to keep hold of him and it is expected that Sessegnon will play as a left forward in the Premier League, after scoring 16 goals last season in the Championship.

As such, it does seem perhaps unlikely that they would be looking at bringing Schürrle in to play him out of position, casting doubt over whether this deal could happen.

Everton

The third Premier League club said to be interested in signing Schürrle, with the Daily Mail reporting that Everton have been offered the chance to sign him.

However, with the Toffees said to be closing in on the signing of Richarlison from Watford, this again looks like another non-starter.

Everton have also been linked with a move to sign Palace star Wilfried Zaha as new boss Marco Silva looks to shape his squad for the new season, but it would now seem that he has settled on a player he has previously worked with at Watford in Richarlison.

That may have an impact on Yannick Bolasie, who has been linked with a move away from Goodison Park this summer, with the winger being linked with a return to Palace, or a move to Leicester City as the Foxes look to replace Riyad Mahrez, who recently joined Manchester City.

Lazio

The Italian club have been linked with a move for Schürrle, despite the reports from Germany that the player would prefer a return to the Premier League.

That is according to Bild, but it could come down to who is willing to meet Dortmund's valuation of the player.

And Lazio have money to spend, after recently selling Felipe Anderson to West Ham United.

Lazio can also offer Schürrle European football, with the Serie A side involved in the Europa League next season.

Schürrle hasn't had a great time at Dortmund, but has previously shown what he is capable of, both at Chelsea and at other German clubs, such as Bayer Leverkusen and Wolfsburg.

One thing is for certain, Schürrle looks to be on his way in the coming days.

And with each of the English clubs said to be interested in signing him also having players in a similar position the subject of interest from others, it is possible that a move to any of them could have a knock-on effect on other transfers.

Lazio would be the only one of the four sides that could offer him European football, but it really depends whether Schürrle is intent on a return to England.

If he is, he would not appear to be short of options.



https://www.football.london/crystal-palace-fc/transfer-news/fulham-palace-everton-lazio-next-14942722

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What are the bookies predicting for Fulham's return to the Premier League?

Here's what the bookies are predicting for Fulham in the upcoming Premier League season

Fulham kick off their Premier League campaign when Crystal Palace come to visit Craven Cottage on August 11 - four years after their last top flight appearance.

So far this summer the side have only added two new faces, with Jean-Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand joining from Nice, while Besiktas keeper Fabri will be the next man through the door.

They've only lost Ryan Fredericks, however, with the full back opting to join West Ham when his contract came to an end, although Fulham also lost six of their loan stars at the end of their loan deals.

Palace, Tottenham Hotspur and Burnley are first up for the Whites in August, but how do the bookies have them doing this season after they won promotion via the play-offs in their last campaign?

Currently, Oddschecker have the club as third-favourites to be relegated back to the Championship, pricing them at 15/8 to go down this season, with fellow promoted side Cardiff City and Huddersfield making up the final two spots.

However, they have been the most heavily backed to stay in the division, attracting 23% of all bets since June 1 on who will stay up next season.

If you fancy a top half finish this season, Fulham are priced at 6/1 while you can back them to finish in the Champions League spots at 250/1.

Reckon they can win the league? Then you can back them at 1000/1 to do so.

Meanwhile, the bookies believe their best shot at having the Premier League's top scorer falls on the shoulders of Ryan Sessegnon and Aleksandar Mitrovic, should he secure his move from Newcastle United - both of those are priced at 250/1.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/what-bookies-predicting-fulhams-return-14941557

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Besiktas Release Official Statement Regarding Fulham Transfer

Besiktas goalkeeper Fabri underwent a medical ahead of his switch to Fulham today.

Turkish-Football sources reveal that the transfer is expected to cost the Cottagers £6.25m.

The Black Eagles released an official statement on the stock exchange confirming talks are underway.

The statement read: "Besiktas are in talks with Fulham Football Club Limited over the transfer of Fabricio Agosto Ramirez."

Meanwhile club official Ali Naibi revealed that unless there is a last minute change of plans Fabri will be joining Fulham.

Naibi confirmed that Besiktas and Fulham have reached an agreement.

"We have reached an agreement with Fulham, the last details remain," he said.

"Unless a disagreement arises Fabri will play in the Premier League."



https://turkish-football.com/besiktas-release-official-statement-regarding-fulham-transfer-fabri/

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Fulham should swoop for Tottenham's for-sale left-back Danny Rose

Spurs are reportedly willing to sell the Englishman for the right price.

According to the Standard, Tottenham Hotspur left back Danny Rose has been deemed surplus to requirements in north London and could be sold this summer.

Fulham should make an effort to sign the England international, as Rose would boost Slavisa Jokanovic's side with Premier League experience and fill their left-back void.

Last season, the Whites were forced to play Ryan Sessegnon out of position in defence for much of the first half of the season after 2016/17 left-back Scott Malone departed for Huddersfield Town.

This shackled the 18-year-old phenom and led to Fulham's lethargic first half of the season, denying Sessegnon the attacking role he thrives in.

However, after the addition of Matt Targett on loan from Southampton, performances drastically improved, with Sessegnon allowed to move further forward.

It appears Targett's parent club are unwilling to sell the defender as Mark Hughes seeks to include him in the Saints first team this year, leading Fulham to search for alternative options such as Rose.

It is clear the left back position is crucial at Craven Cottage, and the acquisition of Tottenham's 28-year-old defender would fill the void in an impressive manner.

Rose possesses searing pace and ambitious attacking tendencies, as well as being a tenacious defender with 23 England caps and over a century of Premier League appearances.

The left-back was named in the PFA Team of the Year in 2015/16 and 2016/17 and would represent a huge step-up in quality from Fulham's current left back options, as new signing Maxime le Merchand is far more comfortable as a centre-back.

Although a bid for Danny Rose would not come cheap, Tony Khan and Fulham's recruitment team have shown they mean business this summer and are not afraid to splash the cash on players of true quality.

Fulham should seriously consider making a move for the for-sale Rose, a top-class left back who has the ability to strengthen their back four and let Ryan Sessegnon flourish on the left wing.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-tottenham-danny-rose/