Monday Fulham Stuff (30/07/18)...

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Fulham could end up paying £27m for Newcastle's Aleksandar Mitrovic

Fulham have reportedly agreed a fee with Newcastle United for the striker.

According to a report from Sky Sports News, Aleksandar Mitrovic is all set to join Fulham from Newcastle, but the fee agreed between the two clubs is higher than was first thought.

The west London outfit have agreed to pay the Magpies £22 million, with a further £5 million in add-ons, to bring the Serbian hitman to Craven Cottage.

Mitrovic spent the second half of last season on loan with Fulham, and really impressed for Slaviša Jokanović's side, scoring 12 goals in 17 Championship outings.

He is obviously not fancied by Rafa Benitez at Newcastle, however, and it now seems as though his time at St James' Park has come to an end.

Sky Sports News claims that Fulham have agreed a fee with Newcastle for Mitrovic's services - one that could rise to £27 million.

The fee that Fulham paid for the 23-year-old was initially thought to be around £20 million, but it now seems to be significantly more than that.

In today's market, though, £27 million for someone with Mitrovic's quality will surely still be considered as decent value for money for the Cottagers.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/29/report-fulham-could-end-up-paying-27m-for-newcastles-aleksandar/

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Fulham plot big-money move for Celtic star Kieran Tierney

Fulham are reportedly keen on Celtic's Kieran Tierney.

According to The Sun, Fulham are preparing a £25million move for Celtic star Kieran Tierney in the hope of pairing him with Ryan Sessegnon down their left flank.

The Cottagers have enjoyed a strong summer so far following their promotion to the Premier League, as they have brought in Besiktas goalkeeper Fabricio, Borussia Dortmund's German World Cup winner Andre Schurrle as well as Nice duo Maxime Le Marchand and Jean Seri.

Slavisa Jokanovic is being backed with signings upon the club's return to the club flight, and whilst The Express report that a £25million move for Swansea City defender Alfie Mawson is moving closer, more money could be splashed out yet.

The Sun report that Fulham now have their sights set on Celtic talent Kieran Tierney, and could attempt to launch a £25million bid for him before next month's transfer deadline.

Tierney, 21, has become a star for Celtic over the last three years, racking up more than 130 appearances whilst winning three league titles and nine caps for Scotland, despite being born in the Isle of Man.

Tierney is now widely regarded as one of the top young left backs in world football, and whilst some clubs have backed away from Celtic's £25million valuation, Fulham appear ready to try their luck.

It's claimed that they want to create a stunning partnership down the left flank between Tierney and 18-year-old Ryan Sessegnon, with Fulham looking to pair up two of British football's brightest young prospects in an ambitious move.

Celtic won't want to lose Tierney, especially so close to the transfer deadline, but with Fulham desperate for a new left back and struggling to sign Matt Targett from Southampton, they may well launch a big-money move to pair Tierney up with their own home grown talent Sessegnon at Craven Cottage.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/29/report-fulham-plot-big-money-move-for-celtic-star-kieran-tierney/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham Agree Deal To Sign 27 Y/O Newcastle United Striker: A Shrewd Move By Jokanovic?



Newcastle United have accepted Fulham's bid to sign Aleksandar Mitrović this summer. According to Sky Sports, the Cottagers have made a £22m offer, which could rise to £27m with add-ons, that was accepted by the Magpies during this summer transfer period.

The 23-year-old will be a low-risk signing as he has already shown what he is capable off during his loan spell at Craven Cottage last season. The Serbian had put in some majestic displays to help the Cottagers secure a promotion back to the English top-flight via the playoffs. His signing could turn out to be a shrewd move by the Londoners in the long run as Mitrovic still has the potential to grow and develop his game in the coming years.

The Serbian centre-forward has a lot of experience of playing at the top level but he is yet to cut the mustard in the top tier of English football. This will be an ideal chance to prove his worth if given the opportunity to feature regularly in Slaviša Jokanović's first-team.

The 23-year-old had featured in 17 league matches for the Cottagers last season, scoring 12 goals while providing one assist. He was also a regular starter for his nation in the 2018 FIFA World Cup but failed to help his country go beyond the group stages of the competition. Mitrovic is exactly the kind of talent who can flourish under the guidance of Slaviša Jokanović if given the opportunity to showcase his talents at Craven Cottage in the upcoming campaign.

Fulham had a terrific campaign last term when they managed to claim a 3rd placed finish in the league and gain a promotion to the English first division via the post-season playoffs. Jokanovic has now got a tough job in his hands as he looks to steer the club towards top-flight safety next term.

The acquisition of Mitrovic will definitely bolster Jokanovic's attacking options ahead of the new season. The Cottagers have the likes of Aboubakar Kamara, Cauley Woodrow and Rui Fonte competing for a place up top in their starting XI. The addition of the big Serbian will undoubtedly improve their team and will add more competition for places within the Fulham squad.

At 23, Mitrovic still has his best years ahead of him which the London outfit could look to benefit from, in the next few seasons. Only time will tell what lies ahead in the future of Mitrovic and whether his time at Craven Cottage turns out to be a success.



https://the4thofficial.net/2018/07/fulham-agree-deal-to-sign-27-y-o-newcastle-united-striker-a-shrewd-move-by-jokanovic/

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Espanyol offer David Lopez new deal following failed Fulham bid

Espanyol's David Lopez had been linked with Fulham.

According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Espanyol have offered a new contract to defender David Lopez as they look to fend off interest from Fulham for good.

The Cottagers have been heavily linked with the 28-year-old centre-back this summer, with The Sun (June 20, page 55) reporting Fulham having two bids – the latter being in the region of £17.5 million – turned down for the player.

Spanish editorial AS claimed La Liga side Espanyol weren't willing to accept any offers less than his reported £37.5 million release clause, and now it seems they are going one step further to preserving their prized asset.

Mundo Deportivo report an agreement over a new contract could be completed by this weekend, with Espanyol looking to make him feel more content at the club after it was suggested Fulham were ready to treble his current wages.

Slavisa Jokanovic is still looking to bolster his Fulham squad after promotion to the Premier League last season, and a new centre-back is high on his list of priorities.

With Espanyol's captain Lopez now looking like a no-go, Swansea City £25m-rated centre-back Alfie Mawson has emerged as a new target with Sky Sports reporting the west London club's interest.

Fulham have managed to bulk up this summer with the additions of Jean Serri and Andre Schurrle on loan, but signing a new defender could make all the difference when it comes to Premier League survival.

The figures which have been branded about for the likes of Lopez and Mawson may seem excessive, but that seems to be the going rate for top-flight Premier League players these days.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/29/tt-report-spanish-club-offer-captain-new-deal-following-failed-f/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham's pursuit of Alfie Mawson is the missing piece in the club's puzzle
The Cottagers have joined the race for the Swansea star.

Photo: Getty Images

On Friday, Fulham joined the race for Swansea City centre back Alfie Mawson, with the Daily Mail claiming the club have been told they must lodge a £25 million bid for the Englishman.

If the Cottagers can secure the signing of the 24-year-old, then the Cottagers could add vital defensive stability to their already formidable Premier League squad.

The newly-promoted outfit have entered the transfer market with impressive swagger, pulling off the coups of purchasing Jean-Michael Seri, Andre Schurrle, Fabri, and Maxime le Merchand.

All of these signings have bolstered the side, but what has been missing from their existing deals is a solid defender with Premier League experience.

Mawson represents the ideal candidate to bolster Fulham's back four, as the Englishman has been a shining light for Swansea even as the club struggled the past two seasons.

The centre-back enjoyed a stellar 2017/18 season despite his club's relegation, registering the seventh-most blocks, tenth-most clearances, and 12th-most headed clearances in all of the top-flight.

In addition, Mawson is a goal threat from set pieces, registering six goals over two Premier League seasons— an impressive tally for a defender.

Mawson's fine displays earned him an England call-up in March for the Three Lions' friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy. After his call-up, his former manager Carlos Carvalhal heaped praise on the defender and said he was ready to perform on the international stage.

    "Alfie is a very good centre-back and he is getting better. All credit goes to him – he is a good character, he plays with quality and, as I have said before, he is one of the best centre-backs playing in the Premier League."

With a reputation for no-nonsense defending and a knack for goal, Alfie Mawson is the ideal player to partner Tim Ream in the heart of Fulham's defence.

Currently, the Whites' back four is the weakest link of their squad, Yet the addition of Mawson would provide the missing piece in the club's Premier League jigsaw, rounding out a starting eleven that would be favoured to beat the drop and perhaps crack the top ten.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-pursuit-alfie-mawson/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham want Celtic's Kieran Tierney

Fulham have made a big statement of intent so far this transfer window by adding a number of big-name players to their squad ahead of the new campaign.

The Cottagers have put themselves in great stead to surpass expectations in the Premier League as they continue to splash the cash this summer. And, it doesn't look as if their summer spending is about to stop any time soon, as according to Sun Sport, Fulham want to sign highly-rated Celtic left-back Kieran Tierney.

Fulham are right in the race for Celtic and Scotland star Kieran Tierney, but the Hoops are demanding £25 million for his services this summer.

Indeed, the London club are waiting to see if he will be allowed to leave this summer, but the likes of Everton, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Bournemouth have all shown interest.

Interestingly, the Cottagers are ready to splash the cash as they know that they have a big sale up their sleeve in the form of Ryan Sessegnon, who will no doubt go for an extortionate price if they decide to sell.

THE VERDICT:
Indeed, it looks as if the Cottagers are set to splash even more cash after welcoming Jean Michael Seri to the club and agreeing a fee for Aleksandar Mitrovic, with an ambitious swoop being eyed in the form of Kieran Tierney.

The Scotsman has established himself as one of the hottest prospects in the whole of world football, so it's an ambitious move for Fulham to try and secure his services when a heap of other clubs are interested, with Manchester United previously scouting the youngster.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham-want-celtics-kieran-tierney/

[WhiteJC]

Mitrovic Completes Move to Fulham
The Serbian striker finally leaves Tyneside

Aleksander Mitrovic is headed to South London after completing a massive move from Newcastle United. The Serbian striker is joining Fulham for a reported £22 million.

This ends the much maligned career of Mitrovic as a Magpie. The 23-year old arrived on Tyneside in 2015 full of promise and potential. While dazzling at times, it is much more likely Mitrovic's time with Newcastle will be remembered as frustrating and inconsistent.

He joined Newcastle from the Belgian side Anderlecht for around £16.6 million. In his first season, Mitrovic scored nine league goals for the club, seeming to deliver on much of the hype that surrounded him.

After an uneven year in the Championship when the Magpies were relegated though, Mitrovic found himself outside of Rafa Benitez's regular team sheet, only making six appearances from August to January of this past season. He accounted for just one Premier League goal in that time. He then joined Fulham on loan and scored 12 goals to help the club secure promotion.

His impressive play with Fulham and continued success on the international stage with Serbia make him a worthwhile player to invest in at 23. However, this was an incredible deal for Newcastle to net £22 million for him, with the potential to reach £27 million due to add-ons.

It was only a matter of time before Mitrovic left and it hardly seemed like he had a ton of suitors. Fulham knew him best from the loan stint and sought to make it a permanent move. The fact that Newcastle profited from Mitrovic is really impressive. He does not have a proven track record in the top division. He is known for committing fouls out of frustration. He lacks the ability to create his own chances. Mitro can be a finisher, which is incredibly valuable, but probably not worth up to £27 million with all his additional caveats.

Mitrovic leaving really does not hurt Newcastle in any way. The team will not miss his production, because he didn't have any, and now have a decent amount of money to invest in another striker or elsewhere.

This has the potential to be the best sale Newcastle has made since selling Moussa Sissoko to Tottenham for £31.5 million in 2016. Smart spending from this deal could see the club knocking on the door of European football within the next few years.




https://cominghomenewcastle.sbnation.com/2018/7/29/17626776/aleksander-mitrovic-completes-move-from-newcastle-united-to-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Aleksandar Mitrovic in London finalising his move to Fulham

Aleksandar Mitrovic is in London finalising his move to Fulham, according to Sky sources.

Sky Sports News reported on Saturday night that the Serbian striker had left the Newcastle training camp in Porto after the two clubs agreed a fee of £22m rising to £27m for the 22-year-old.

Mitrovic will undergo a medical in the next 48 hours.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage.

Mitrovic scored 12 goals in 20 matches while on loan, as the club secured promotion to the Premier League via the Sky Bet Championship play-offs.

Fulham have already completed the signings of Fabri, Maxime Le Marchand, Andre Schurrle and Jean Michael Seri this summer.



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11453191/aleksandar-mitrovic-in-london-finalising-his-move-to-fulham

[WhiteJC]

 
Alfie Mawson nears Fulham move with Swansea talks at advanced stage

Fulham and Swansea hope a deal for Alfie Mawson can be finalised within 72 hours - Sky sources

Fulham are close to signing Alfie Mawson from Swansea with talks between the clubs at an advanced stage, according to Sky sources.

Fulham entered the race to sign the Swansea centre-back on Friday, alongside Burnley and West Ham whose interest has now cooled.

Sky Sports News understands Fulham and Swansea are in agreement on many aspects of the deal with both parties hoping a deal can be finalised within 72 hours.

The Swans want more than £20m for the centre-back, who is still getting back to fitness following knee surgery at the end of last season.

West Ham had a number of offers rejected earlier in the summer as they bid for both Mawson and goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski, whom they signed in June.

Sky Sports News reported earlier this month that Burnley had opened discussions for the defender as they prepare for their first season in European competition.



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11453211/alfie-mawson-nears-fulham-move-with-swansea-talks-at-advanced-stage

[WhiteJC]

 
Mitrovic on brink of securing blockbuster Fulham return

Aleksandr Mitrovic is on the verge of securing a permanent move to Fulham after the Cottagers agreed an initial £22m fee with Newcastle, reports Sky Sports.

The Serbia international spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham and played an integral part in the club's promotion to the Premier League.

Fulham have been desperately trying all summer to get a permanent deal over the line for Mitrovic and have finally made a breakthrough in talks with Newcastle.

Slavisa Jokanovic's side have agreed to pay Newcastle an initial £22m and that fee could rise to as high as £27m if performance related add-ons are met.

Mitrovic left Newcastle's pre-season training camp in Portugal on Saturday night and will undergo his Fulham medical in the coming days before completing his switch to Craven Cottage.

The 23-year-old will become the fifth signing Fulham have made this summer and the second high profile arrival following Jean Seri's shock £25m move for Nice earlier in the transfer window.

Mitrovic scored 12 goals in 20 league appearances for Fulham last season, earning the WhoScored Man of the Match award on six occasions. In fact, he netted more times in the second half of last season than any other player in the Championship.

The Serbian striker struggled to have the same impact at the 2018 World Cup, missing several golden opportunities during his three appearances.



https://www.whoscored.com/News/IooWodqRLkK2qyJ1f-hpNg/Show/Mitrovic-on-brink-of-securing-blockbuster-Fulham-return

[WhiteJC]

 
Mitrovic set for Fulham medical

Aleksandar Mitrovic will take his Fulham medical in the next 48 hours as his permanent move to Craven Cottage moves closer.

Fulham and Newcastle finally agreed on a fee for the Serbian striker yesterday – ending a month-long impasse between the two parties over their differing valuations of the 23 year-old. Mitrovic was released from the Magpies' pre-season tour of Portugal and immediately flew back to the United Kingdom. The powerful forward is now back in London, finalising the fine details of his switch with Fulham.

Mitrovic has reportedly already agreed personal terms with the Premier League new boys and is keen to be reunited with his compatriot Slavisa Jokanovic, Fulham's head coach. The capture of the striker, which was one of Jokanovic's highest transfer priorities over the close season, comes after Mitrovic helped Fulham win promotion from the Championship – scoring twelve goals in 20 appearances after moving to the Whites on loan back in January. Jokanovic was desperate to strengthen his striking options before the closure of the transfer window and Mitrovic feels he has unfinished business in the Premier League after being cast aside by Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez.

Mitrovic is believed to be ready to undergo his medical at Motspur Park on Monday and is poised to become Fulham's fifth addition of the summer. The former Partizan Belgrade and Anderlecht forward will join Jean-Michael Seri, Maxime Le Marchand, Fabri and Andre Schurrle in making the move to Craven Cottage and is expected to play a big part in Fulham's return to the top flight this term.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/mitrovic-set-for-fulham-medical/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham closing in on Mawson capture

Fulham are close to completing a deal to sign Swansea centre back Alfie Mawson, according to reports this afternoon.

The Whites continued their blockbuster summer transfer window by making a late move for the former England under-21 international on Friday. Fulham's reported £20m offer has been considered by the Swansea board – and the Premier League new boys are apparently willing to go as high as £25m in order to strengthen their defensive options with the highly-rated centre back. It is thought that most elements of a potential deal are now in place and Fulham believe they could finalise the signing by the middle of next week.

It seems as if Fulham's interest has put them in pole position to buy Mawson, who had previously been linked with a move to Burnley and West Ham. Sky Sports are suggesting that both those clubs have now cooled their interested in the former Barnsley defender and Mawson is believed to be keen on making a return to the capital having been born in Hillingdon. The 24 year-old has told Swansea that he sees his future in the top flight following their relegation – and the Welsh outfit have been preparing for his likely departure this summer. They are eager to realise as big a fee as possible for the popular defender as Barnsley have a sell-on clause agreed when he left Oakwell.

Mawson is considered as one of England's most promising ball-players centre backs and impressed as an ever-present in a struggling Swansea side last season. His composed performances earned a call-up to the England squad for the pre-World Cup friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy in march, although he did not win a first senior cap. Mawson is confident of making a return to full fitness in August despite undergoing knee surgery earlier this summer and his arrival at Craven Cottage would represent a significant boost to Fulham's defensive resources.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-closing-in-on-mawson-capture/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham could complete deals for Newcastle and Swansea stars before Sampdoria friendly

Aleksandar Mitrovic has arrived in London already, while negotiations are progressing well for Alfie Mawson

Fulham could complete two deals before taking to the field to face Sampdoria in a friendly on Wednesday evening.

Aleksandar Mitrovic has arrived in London and will undergo his medical within the next 48 hours ahead of his move back to the Cottagers, while talks with Swansea for Alfie Mawson are at an 'advanced stage' according to Sky Sports.

The Serbian striker left Newcastle's training camp in Portugal yesterday not even 24 hours after arriving, as the clubs agreed to a deal suggested to be worth in the region of £22million, that could rise as high as £27million.

Swansea are thought to be demanding a similar figure for Mawson's services but talks are progressing well and could be complete within 72 hours.

The 24-year-old defender has been a stand-out member of the Swans squad over the last two seasons and was ever-present as the Welsh side were relegated last season.

He is currently recovering from knee surgery however.

West Ham were rebuffed in their approach earlier this summer as they bid for both the former Brentford defender and goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski who they managed to sign.

Burnely were also reported to have entered talks but it seems they have cooled while Fulham are already in agreement in many areas with Swansea

The signings of Mitrovic and Mawson would continue a summer of heavy spending where the Whites have brought in the likes of Jean-Michael Seri and Maxime Marchand for around £30m, as well as Andre Schurrle on a two-year loan

Fulham had been still in the hunt for a new left back and centre back, as well as Mitrovic, ahead of the August 9 deadline and Mawson could fill one of those roles.

Mitrovic could be unveiled on Wednesday night when Seria A side Sampdoria travel to Aldershot's Recreation Ground as Fulham complete their second friendly of the summer at the non-league stadium.

On their last visit to the ground, Slavisa Jokanovic's men drew 0-0 with Reading in their first open friendly of the summer.



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/newcastle-mitrovic-swanse-mawson-transfer-14966136

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham in talks over Guilavogui move

Fulham are in discussions with Wolfsburg over the possible transfer of their defensive midfielder Josuha Guilavogui, according to reports from France this afternoon.

The French international is apparently interested in making the move to the Premier League after spending the last two seasons with Wolfsburg, following a successful loan spell from Atletico Madrid. The imposing 27 year-old has won seven caps – having been a star at youth international level – for his country and helped Wolfsburg win the German Cup for the first time in their history back in 2015.

Guilavogui began his career with Saint-Étienne and was promoted to the senior squad as a teenager when the first team suffered from an injury crisis. He excelled despite his young age and went on to make more than a hundred first-team appearances for the club before sealing a move to Atletico. He struggled to break into the first team in Spain, but has been a regular in the Wolfsburg midfield, making 105 appearances since moving to Germany.

Slavisa Jokanovic is keen to add depth to his options in central midfield, despite Kevin McDonald signing a new two-year contract at Craven Cottage, after Ibrahima Cisse failed to impress during his first season with the club last year. Guilavogui currently has a release clause of around £17.8m, which Fulham would probably have to meet to seal the transfer. The 6ft 2in holding midfielder, who has impressive physical attributes and is extremely comfortable on the ball, would be an excellent fit for Jokanovic's possession-based footballing philosophy.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-in-talks-over-guilavogui-move/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham should complete midfield by signing Badou N'diaye

Fulham have began life back in the Premier League by producing arguably the most surprising signing of the transfer window so far in Jean Michael Seri.

The Ivorian midfielder was wanted last summer by Barcelona but has instead opted to join Fulham this season, a move applauded by all football fans in the shock the Cottagers have pulled off such an audacious move. Whether those surprise moves continue is unknown but in order to add further to their midfield quality, Fulham should seriously look at prizing Badou N'diaye away from Stoke City.

The 27-year-old only joined the Potters in January and despite doing all he personally could to try and avoid relegation, Stoke failed and will consequently play their football in the Championship next season. N'Diaye, unlike other Stoke players impressed in his short time with the club as he claimed two goals and 1 assist in his 13 Premier League starts.

From those games alone, a team like Fulham should be able to see his potential and realise that N'Diaye is a far better footballer than one who plays in the Championship and needs to be operating in midfield next to the likes of Jean Michael Seri and Tom Cairney.

The Premier League is sure to prove to Fulham that it's a huge step up in quality and that top players are required should they wish to cement their stay after a four year absence. N'Diaye can operate in any part of midfield, providing an attack option with his powerful running, or as a defensive midfielder that doesn't allow a single opponent to get near his goal.

The Senegalese international has an array of qualities, something that has to be picked up on by Fulham before it's too late.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/ticker/fulham-should-complete-midfield-by-signing-badou-ndiaye/

[WhiteJC]

 
Where can Slavisa Jokanovic take Fulham in the Premier League?

As our humble football club returns to the top of the English football pyramid, I take a look at what to expect from Premier League life under Slavisa Jokanovic. The first foreign coach with two promotions to the Premier League, Slavisa Jokanovic is a man whose sides do not play with his steely image. The Serbian and his coaching staff hold a strong Spanish influence with Jokanovic himself spending 8 years of his playing career in the home of tiki-taka football. Slavisa Jokanovic believes the attacking, possession based football is the right way to go about things, in an interview with Spanish publication Marca he said, "We are not going to change the style. We are not going to hit balls or park the bus. It would not be a good plan. We need to change things, but we are not going to give up our style."

A proud individual, Jokanovic early on in his coaching career rejected the award of 'Best Serbian Coach,' the story in his own words "After choosing me, they started talking like they were not sure they made the best decision. So, I decided not to accept: if you don't believe I am the best, then I don't need this award. That's it. I always do what feels right. This is my personality. The next season we won the double again. This time there was no award, but I didn't care. I wasn't there to fight for personal awards. I was fighting for my club." Later in his coaching career, Slavisa would face a similar situation. After securing promotion with Watford, he left the football club for he thought the club did not feel that he was the right man to take them into the Premier League.

He arrived at Fulham with a below par and unbalanced set of players, faced with the task of avoiding relegation to League One. Successful in keeping the club in the second division, Slavisa looked to revamp the playing staff and aided by Tony Khan, son of owner Shahid, taking more of a hands on approach to football played with a spherical ball. Slavisa could now deliver the passing brand of football that he is now taking into the Premier League. A 433 was introduced with new signings Kevin McDonald and Stefan Johansen joining Tom Cairney in the midfield with Fulham building a reputation of being the Barcelona of the Championship and general pass masters. The addition of better quality footballers, more technically proficient footballers and quality coaching took the London side from 20th the previous season to 6th. An unsuccessful play off attempt was stalled at the first stage but Slavisa had brought Fulham back to life and captured the imagination of supporters, players and the media alike.

Despite an unsuccessful summer transfer window a few months after the disappointment at the Madejski, Slavisa Jokanovic kept the football club within capable distance of the play off positions come the January transfer window. In came Matt Targett and Aleksandar Mitrovic on loan deals which helped take a six game unbeaten run to a club record twenty-three resulting in a late push for an automatic promotion. Cardiff's lead was too much to overcome but as we know, Fulham rode an emotional rollercoaster through the play offs ending in the euphoric high of promotion to the Premier League.

So here we are, less than two weeks from Fulham's return to Premier League football, starting where the previous finished with a game at Craven Cottage to Crystal Palace and I look at what to expect from Slavisa's side in the Premier League. While the transfer window is still open, we won't fully be able to dissect the details of the starting eleven with positions yet to be filled and dealings yet to be completed. Since winning a power struggle with, former Assistant Director of Football Operations, Craig Kline, Slavisa Jokanovic and Tony Khan's relationship seems to be in a good place and the eye-watering financial backing that the Serbian coach has received since securing promotion should show Slavisa that, unlike Watford, Fulham feel he is the right man to lead them to the top of the English football pyramid.

Just go back to that quote from Slavisa's Marca interview at the start of this piece. Jokanovic's Fulham is here to play football, show their quality and not make up the numbers. The early additions in this window are designed to help the styles adjustment to better quality opposition. Record signing Jean Michael Seri joins us with a reputation as one of the better no.6s in European football, compared to Xavi during his time in France, the Ivorian international will be likely be charged with being a maestro to attacks in a less chaotic manner as Stefan Johansen. The link between defence and attack, Seri's movement in creating passing lanes and pinpoint passing should aid the retention of possession and the movement of opposition players out of position. Seri's former team mate at Nice Maxime Le Marchand arrives as a ball playing central defender with the flexibility of playing as a measured left back also. The building of play from the back of the team is vital to the structure of the entire style. Spanish goalkeeper Fabri comes from a possession based team in Turkey that won the title during his time in Besiktas. German World Cup winner Andre Schurrle is the latest to join the football club, Schurrle's speed, movement, quality of touch and work rate will add much beyond the goal scoring touch that has seen him score double figures in all competitions in a single season three times in his career.

Aleksandar Mitrovic appears to rejoining his compatriot at Craven Cottage and his physical presence and hold up play will aid Fulham's ability to retain the ball in the final third and provide a target to point to in order to release any pressure with a more direct ball. Alfie Mawson is another due to sign for the football club, with Fulham seemingly done with negotiations with Espanyol for David Lopez, Tony Khan has moved quickly to seemingly secure the signing. Mawson is a young English central defender on the verge of the national team; he has good size and defending qualities built from his time climbing up the Football League but his ball playing ability appears to be understated. Confident and calm in possession, Mawson is elegant in possession but admittedly I do worry a little about a lack of pace on the recovery stemming from Fulham's high defensive line.

Returning to the quote from Marca, Slavisa hints at possible tweaks to the style that has served the team so well. Beyond experimenting with Ryan Sessegnon on the right hand side, a place the teenage left sided player seldom saw in his two years in the Championship, the style has not looked too dissimilar. Though there is every possibility that Slavisa's comments are with regards to dealing with the likes of Manchester City and Chelsea.

What I do know about Fulham Football Club returning to the Premier League with Slavisa Jokanovic in charge supported with the ambitious recruitment of Tony Khan is that this Fulham is going to feel fresh, this Fulham is going to feel stylish and this Fulham may well just be a neutral's second team. Despite it's humble nature and quaint surroundings, Fulham is back with statement signings and swagger on the football pitch and I believe it's that swagger and style that you can expect from Slavisa Jokanovic's Fulham in the Premier League this coming season.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/where-can-slavisa-jokanovic-take-fulham-in-the-premier-league/

[WhiteJC]

 
Report: Fulham in new Targett bid as move for Manchester City's Zinchenko said too complicated

Fulham were linked with Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko.

According to the Mirror (live transfer thread, July 29 at 17:27), Fulham have made a new bid for Southampton's Matt Targett after considering a move for Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko as too complicated.

The report claims the Saints are ready to listen to Fulham's raised bid for the left-back, while Werder Bremen's Ludwig Augustinsson was another name the Cottagers were said to be considering, but opted against.

Targett spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage and thoroughly impressed, helping the club achieve promotion to the Premier League via the Championship playoffs.

Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic has made no secret of his desire to sign the former England U21 international on a permanent deal, but so far Southampton have been reluctant to sell.

It seems as if the Cottagers had moved on and switched their attentions to Manchester City's Zinchenko, yet a move for the Citizens ace has been cited as too complicated with the Ukrainian seemingly keen to stay (the Mirror).

Targett has always been Fulham's number one left-back target, and now it appears they are going back in with a new and improved bid with the report in the Mirror claiming has captured Saints' attention.

The 22-year-old made 20 Championship appearances for Fulham last term, as he struck up an excellent attacking partnership with Ryan Sessegnon down the left flank.

Fulham will be desperate to see the duo working together again in the Premier League as that could be a key combination.

Sky Sports also reports that both Aleksandar Mitrovic and Alfie Mawson are close to completing moves to Fulham, as Jokanovic looks to add the final pieces to his newly-promoted squad.



http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2018/07/29/tt-report-fulham-in-new-targett-bid-as-move-for-manchester-citys/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham should sign Nuri Sahin to accompany Schurrle back in the Premier League

Fulham are hoping that significant spending in the transfer market will lead to the club becoming safe from relegation in their first season back in the top flight.

So far the Cottagers have impressively signed Nice due Jean Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand, two players that will immediately improve Fulham's starting line-up. Having done so well to get promoted via the play-offs, Fulham realise that to stay in contention within the Premier League, spending will be the key to their success.

With Andre Schurrle soon to fly in for a medical, Fulham should try and nab his teammate Nuri Sahin as well.

Schurrle is another statement of intent from Fulham and a move that's earning plaudits from many football fans. The World Cup winner had a good but brief spell with Chelsea, where he scored 11 goals in 44 Premier League appearances but Nuri Sahin didn't have the same effect when he came to England for the first time.

The Turkish international featured just 7 times in the league for Liverpool and his loan spell with the club certainly wouldn't be considered as a success. Now though, the 29-year-old has been playing more regularly for Borussia Dortmund which would make him a great signing for Fulham to complete their perfect midfield trio in the form of Jean Michael Seri, Tom Cairney and then Nuri Sahin. That midfield offers pace and tenacity from Seri, creativity and goals from Cairney and defensive improvements from Sahin.

You can't be a bad player if you've played for Liverpool, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund like Nuri Sahin has so if Fulham could pull off another audacious signing like this, it will leave them with a good chance of survival in their first season back.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/premier-league/fulham/fulham-should-sign-nuri-sahin-to-accompany-schurrle-back-in-the-premier-league/

[WhiteJC]

 
Fulham make 'improved offer' for Matt TargettFulham make 'improved offer' for Matt Targett

Fulham have reportedly returned with a fresh offer for Southampton defender Matt Targett.

The Whites remain desperate to complete a deal for Targett before the transfer window slams shut on August 9 and according to the Mirror, an 'improved offer' has been submitted.

It was reported earlier on this month that Fulham had made a new proposal of £8 million for the Saints defender. However, it seems Slavisa Jokanovic's side have since upped their efforts the recruit Targett.

The Saints' academy graduate spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage and enjoyed a successful stint. Targett helped the club secure promotion to the Premier League, and now they want to land him on a permanent basis.

Targett is currently behind Ryan Bertrand in the pecking order of left-backs at Southampton, although he has featured regularly under Mark Hughes in pre-season so far.

Fulham have been busy in the transfer window and it looks as though they are determined to lure Targett away from St Mary's Stadium in the next two weeks.



https://readsouthampton.com/2018/07/29/fulham-make-improved-offer-for-matt-targett/

[WhiteJC]

 
Analyzing Benitez's risk in reported Mitrovic out, Rondon in moves

As Newcastle cut ties with Aleksandar Mitrovic ahead of the Serbian striker Fulham move and Salomon Rondon seemingly moves into his old squad spot, it's worth asking, at least in theory, whether the Magpies can defy the age math of the move.

There's a load of well-earned respect amongst the Geordies for manager Rafa Benitez, who has rarely had time or patience for the productive but combustible Mitrovic.

Still just 23, the powerful forward had an amazing half-season on loan at Fulham and was a handful for defenses at the World Cup.

But Benitez has kept a short leash on Mitrovic since he took the reigns at St. James Park. Mitrovic scored 12 goals in 17 Championship matches for Fulham after scoring just five times in 31 appearances between the Championship and Premier League for Newcastle from 2015-17 (His first year at Newcastle was a nine-goal, four-assist, two red card campaign under Steve McClaren and then Benitez).

Given Mitrovic's young age and success rate at Craven Cottage, there's no reason for Fulham not to spend the reported $28 million.

The Magpies are expected to use a lot of that money to sign big West Bromwich Albion forward Rondon, who has scored 24 goals in three seasons as the focal point of one of the Premier League's most conservative attacks.

Newcastle's bet has to be that Benitez believes that feeding pieces around Rondon — Ayoze Perez, Yoshimori Muti, Matt Ritchie, Jonjo Shelvey, DeAndre Yedlin and Kenedy — are going to produce more feast-able material for the big man than the Baggies' recent pieces (Chris Brunt, Matty Phillips, Kieran Gibbs, Jay Rodriguez, Jake Livermore, and James McClean).

Mitrovic played with such fury that cards were never too far away. Rondon is no shrinking violet, but has only taken one red in his career (going head-first into Bournemouth opposition, who was doing the same).

This is a pretty big risk for Benitez, who is one even marginally-big Mitrovic season away from having a $40-plus million striker on his hands. But Newcastle owner Mike Ashley's stingy nature has forced Benitez to find creative solutions to his squad needs.

Rondon is a short-term fix and the striker market is never going to be low cost, but the Magpies do have plenty of crossers and playmakers should they stay healthy. Might Rondon be the tonic for an attack dreadfully shy of finishers last season? He's no doubt an upgrade on Joselu and Dwight Gayle, but that's not saying a ton.

It's not a big gamble, but admittedly it's a gamble. Rondon can be a 10-goal man with terrific hold-up play for teammates, but a behaved Mitrovic has 15-20 in his locker. That's asking a lot though.



https://soccer.nbcsports.com/2018/07/29/analyzing-benitezs-risk-in-reported-mitrovic-out-rondon-in-moves/