Friends of Fulham

Fulham consider move for £50m-rated Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun with Aleksandar Mitrovic set to leave for Al-Hilal, with Cottagers also asking about Man United defender Eric Bailly

    Fulham are considering Arsenal's Folarin Balogun, who is valued at £50m
    Aleksandar Mitrovic is set to leave for Al-Hilal and Balogun could replace him

Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal's £50m-rated striker Folarin Balogun as they prepare to sell Aleksandar Mitrovic to Al-Hilal.

Fulham also retain an interest in Benfica defender Morato and have asked about Eric Bailly at Manchester United.

Balogun impressed on loan at Reims last season as he scored 22 goals and he could now depart permanently.

22-year-old centre-back Morato is a product of Benfica's academy and has made 51 senior appearances for the club.

Fulham had a bid of £18million for Morato turned down last month. Morato has told Benfica that he wants to leave. 

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/00/74404797-0-image-m-119_1692228250089.jpg)
Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal's £50million-rated striker Folarin Balogun
 
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/00/74405281-0-image-a-136_1692229143194.jpg)
Balogun could replace Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is likely to leave Fulham for Al-Hilal

Bailly is back at United after a loan spell at Marseille.

So far in this transfer window Fulham have brought in Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey and Adama Traore.

Marco Silva's side started their season with a 1-0 win away to Everton.

Fulham host Brentford on Saturday before travelling to take on Arsenal on August 26.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/00/74405333-0-image-a-137_1692229239986.jpg)
Fulham also retain an interest in a possible move for 22-year-old Benfica centre-back Morato
 
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/00/74405367-0-image-m-139_1692229307491.jpg)
In addition, Fulham have asked about Manchester United centre-back Eric Bailly



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12415121/Fulham-consider-50m-rated-Arsenal-striker-Folarin-Balogun-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-set-leave-Al-Hilal.html

Fulham now want 'phenomenal' Arsenal player as they prepare for £40m sale
Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as they edge closer to selling Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal this summer.

That is according to a report from the Daily Mail, which notes that Marco Silva's men have their eye on the Gunners starlet in the final couple of weeks in the window.

Folarin Balogun is facing a race against time to get out of Arsenal. The 22-year-old has played no part in their season so far. And it appears that Mikel Arteta is content with the idea of letting him go.

Fulham eye Balogun as potential replacement for Mitrovic
However, Arsenal are not going to make it easy for the USMNT international to leave. The Daily Mail reports that Balogun is valued at £50 million.

And he could get the chance to move across the capital, with Fulham considering an approach. As reported by the Guardian, the Cottagers look set to sell Aleksandar Mitrovic for more than £40 million.

Mitrovic's departure would leave big shoes to fill. But obviously, Fulham are up against the clock at this stage of the window.

Balogun would be an interesting choice for the club. He is still unproven in the Premier League. But Arteta described his form on loan with Reims last season as 'phenomenal'.

If he could carry that form over, he could be an absolutely amazing signing. But that feels like a big if when you also consider that he previously struggled on loan at Middlesbrough.

Understandably, Balogun will argue that he is yet to really get the chance to show what he can do in England. And that may tempt Fulham to roll the dice on a potential deal.

It is certainly going to be interesting to see what happens should Mitrovic now seal his move to Saudi Arabia.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-now-want-phenomenal-arsenal-player-as-they-prepare-for-40m-sale/

Fulham eye Balogun as Mitrovic replacement
This morning's Daily Mail carries a report claiming that Fulham are considering the young Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun as a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Whites remain reluctant to let their Serbian striker join Al-Hilal, especially as the Saudi Pro League side have still failed to meet their £52m valuation. The latest bid is believed to be worth up to £46m and head coach Marco Silva still views the 28 year-old striker as an essential part of his strike force after the former Newcastle forward came off the bench to turn Fulham's opening fixture at Everton in their favour by starting the move that led to Bobby De Cordova-Reid's winner. Mitrovic has scored 111 goals in 206 appearances since moving to Craven Cottage in 2018 – initially on loan.

Selling Mitrovic, who scored fifteen times in all competitions last season as Silva's side finished tenth on their return to the top flight, this close to end of the summer transfer window would be a gamble for Fulham. The Mail suggests that they are interested in offering Balogun, who has made just ten first-team appearances for the Gunners scoring twice goals, an opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League – although the Whites would probably baulk at the £50m asking price.

The 22 year-old striker, who scored his first international goal for the United States in CONCACAF Gold Cup final win over Canada earlier this summer having switched his allegiance from England, scored 22 goals in 39 games on loan at Ligue 1 Stade de Reims last season. Arsenal have already rejected an offer from Monaco for Balogun, who has two years to run on his contract at the Emirates.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-eye-balogun-as-mitrovic-replacement/

Bernd Leno believes European football should be the aim for Fulham
Bernd Leno insists Fulham should be looking to finish the job and qualify for Europe this season – and even joked they should be aiming to win the Premier League title.

The Germany goalkeeper saw a run of eight defeats in their last 13 top-flight matches end any hope of reaching the European places last term.

Marco Silva's side still finished tenth, a disappointing end to a superb first campaign back in the top flight but at least this time there was no struggle with relegation.

Now, following Saturday's 1-0 win at Everton, Leno believes the Londoners should be aiming high again.

Asked what Fulham's ambitions should be for the new campaign, he told Metro: 'Same as last season – after 20-25 matches we can change the target and say, "We go for Europe or mid-table or whatever" or for the (league) trophy. No, I'm joking!

'We prepare just for [the next game] and not what could happen next year in May.'

Leno claims running Manchester City and Manchester United close both home and away last term should provide belief that Fulham are on an equal footing with their more established opponents.

'I think now everyone knows we can compete. We can compete with the big teams, especially at home,' he added. 'When you see United and City, they struggled against us.

'At the end we lost these games but you saw they were decided by details – in the last minute against United.

'We know how we can compete against these teams and they also know what they can expect from us so it will be a challenge.'

The Fulham No.1 admits the fact the transfer window remains open, with the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Joao Palhinha attracting attention, ensures the next few weeks will not be easy.

Striker Mitrovic was wanted by Saudi side Al-Hilal, who are tipped to be back with a new bid of £47million, while boss Silva turned down a £40m offer from Al-Ahli. Palhinha, meanwhile, has been linked to Liverpool and West Ham.

There could also be incomings before Saturday's derby at home to Brentford and Leno said: 'Every season you have the same problem. Last year, I came in one day before the first game against Liverpool. I had no pre-season because I didn't train much at Arsenal, no friendlies, nothing.

'I had zero rhythm so I had to adapt as quick as possible but that's our job and that is why we are professionals. The team is very nice to adapt to and the fans make it very easy for players to adapt and get the confidence so I don't worry about it.'

Leno, who left the Emirates in search of regular first-team football, was close to Aaron Ramsdale, the man who went on to replace him in goal for the Gunners.

Ramsdale recently revealed his wife suffered a miscarriage in January. Asked whether he had reached out to Ramsdale, Leno said: 'No, not yet. I think I really appreciate him as a person, he's a really good guy, even when we were both Arsenal goalkeepers we had a very good relationship

'Soon I am going to speak with him and I think credit to him that he speaks about his personal life very openly and I wish him all the best for the future.'



https://metro.co.uk/2023/08/17/bernd-leno-believes-european-football-should-be-the-aim-for-fulham-19343495/?ito=newsnow-feed

Leno: 'Everyone knows we can compete'
Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno believes the rest of the Premier League won't be underestimating Fulham this season after their exploits last year.

The Cottagers enjoyed an excellent return to the top flight last season, surprising most of the pundits by finishing tenth. The German international, who was outstanding as Marco Silva's side began the new campaign with a 1-0 win at Everton last Saturday, is full of belief that his side can improve on that impressive finish this time round. Leno told the Metro:

    "Same as last season – after 20-25 matches we can change the target and say, "We go for Europe or mid-table or whatever" or for the [Premier League] trophy. No, I'm joking! We prepare just for [the next game] and not what could happen next year in May."

Leno feels Fulham should take confidence from their strong showings against the top sides last year.

    "I think now everyone knows we can compete. We can compete with the big teams, especially at home. When you see [Manchester] United and [Manchester] City, they struggled against us. At the end we lost these games but you saw they were decided by details – in the last minute against United. We know how we can compete against these teams and they also know what they can expect from us so it will be a challenge.

The former Arsenal custodian admits that the transfer window remaining open until the start of September means Fulham's squad is still in a state of flux – but points to his experience as a late arrival to Craven Cottage last season for proof that new signings can make an immediate impact.

    "Every season you have the same problem. Last year, I came in one day before the first game against Liverpool. I had no pre-season because I didn't train much at Arsenal, no friendlies, nothing. I had zero rhythm so I had to adapt as quick as possible but that's our job and that is why we are professionals. The team is very nice to adapt to and the fans make it very easy for players to adapt and get the confidence so I don't worry about it."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/leno-everyone-knows-we-can-compete/

Another transfer failure! Man Utd to take £30m hit on Eric Bailly & let him leave for free as Fulham & Saudi Arabia emerge as possible options

Manchester United are willing to let defender Eric Bailly to leave the club for free this summer, with Fulham and clubs from Saudi Arabia interested.

    Man Utd signed Bailly for £30m in 2016
    Player's career blighted by injury
    United ready to let him go for nothing

WHAT HAPPENED? Bailly was signed from Villarreal in the summer of 2016 for £30 million ($38m) but his time at Old Trafford has been blighted by injury, with the Ivorian never having been able to cement a regular place in the first team.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The defender has only played 70 league games for United in six seasons, while he was sent out on loan to Marseille in 2022-23 and now looks destined to be offloaded by Erik ten Hag, even if he has to take a significant hit and not receive a transfer fee.

AND WHAT'S MORE: According to RMC Sport, are willing to come to an agreement to allow Bailly to leave on a free transfer, with Premier League side Fulham, as well as clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia, interested in signing him.

WHAT NEXT FOR BAILLY? Despite his injury-hit career, the Ivorian won't be short of offers should United let him go this summer, with the 29-year-old desperate to get his career back on track.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/transfer-failure-man-utd-eric-bailly-free-fulham-saudi-arabia/blt7fc82b2b3c05e276

Fulham 'consider' £50m Arsenal youngster as 14-goal striker 'waits' for Saudi Arabia 'green light'
Fulham are eyeing up an unwanted Arsenal player to replace Saudi Arabia-bound striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to reports.

Mitrovic – who has also been linked with a move to Tottenham – only played 23 minutes in pre-season as he pushes to join Serbia teammate Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and ex-Wolves captain Ruben Neves at Al-Hilal.

The Cottagers reportedly received a derisory €30million (£25.6million) bid from the Saudi Pro League outfit earlier this summer.

Fulham were not entertaining offers in that region after Mitrovic's impressive 2022/23 campaign in which he scored 14 goals in 24 Premier League appearances.

The Serbian international is eager for the payday in the middle east with personal terms already agreed.

It all went a bit quiet in recent weeks but Al-Hilal appear to have reignited their interest with a "new proposal on the table", as per Fabrizio Romano.

A deal now seems imminent. On Wednesday evening, Romano posted on Twitter: "Understand Al Hilal are finalising move to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic!

"Deal now imminent, waiting for final approval as formal bid has been sent Mitrovic agreed terms with Al Hilal in July.

"He's just waiting for Fulham green light to make it happen in the next hours."

Fulham will need to recruit a new striker if Mitrovic departs, even with Raul Jimenez already through the door.

Replacing the former Newcastle United striker's output in front of goal will be a huge task but Marco Silva reportedly believes Arsenal and United States youngster Folarin Balogun is the man to fill that void.

According to the Daily Mail, Silva is 'considering' Balogun, who scored 22 goals on loan at French club Stade Reims last season.

The Gunners want £50m for the 22-year-old and have received enquiries from Inter and AS Monaco in recent weeks, with RB Leipzig also linked at the start of the summer transfer window.

The report does not give much away but it is added that Fulham are also interested in signing Manchester United outcast Eric Bailly and Benfica's 22-year-old central defender Morato.

Balogun is clearly not in Mikel Arteta's plans as the Arsenal manager looks to add funds to his transfer kitty after the big-money signings of Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.

The American striker was not included in the Gunners' squad for their Premier League opener at home to Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

It is quite surprising to see Arteta not give Balogun much of an opportunity after such a successful season with Reims.



https://www.football365.com/news/arsenal-transfers-folarin-balogun-to-fulham-mitrovic-waits-saudi-green-light

Fulham consider £50m transfer deal for Arsenal ace and ask about Man United misfit
Fulham are reportedly considering a surprise transfer move for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, which could be worth as much as £50million.

The USA international impressed on loan at Reims last season, enjoying a prolific campaign in Ligue 1, but he faces plenty of competition for a place in Mikel Arteta's squad, so could be on the move this summer.

According to the latest from the Daily Mail, Fulham are considering spending as much as £50m on Balogun as they look for a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic up front.

If Arsenal could receive as much as £50m for a backup player who developed in their academy, that would surely be very hard to turn down.

The Mail also claim Fulham have asked Manchester United about Eric Bailly, who has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils will surely be keen to offload Bailly after his recent lack of impact, and an underwhelming spell on loan at Marseille last season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2023/08/17/arsenal-transfer-news-balogun-to-fulham-for-50m/

Fulham target Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as Aleksandar Mitrovic replacement

The Cottagers would attempt to drastically reduce their London rivals' £50m asking price for the former Reims loan star

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun is one of Fulham's key targets to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic if the Serbian leaves the club this summer.

Balogun is ready to depart the Emirates Stadium for more regular first-team football and is now seen as a suitable replacement by Fulham manager Marco Silva, who wants another forward despite already signing Raul Jimenez from Wolves in this window.

The United States international is valued at £50million after scoring 21 league goals in 37 matches on loan at French club Reims last season, but Fulham will likely try to reduce that fee significantly.

Mitrovic, meanwhile, remains in the dark over Fulham's response to Al-Hilal's latest £46m offer for his services. The Cottagers have yet to either accept or reject the approach despite receiving it two days ago.

They appear to be assessing their options over a potential replacement, having asked for £50m for Mitrovic earlier in the summer.

The Serbia international is keen to move to Saudi Arabia where he will triple his current £120,000-a-week wages and play alongside Brazilian superstar Neymar in one of the country's biggest teams.

Mitrovic was upset with Fulham for not accepting several bids in July and spent time training alone. He has since been reintroduced into the group and featured from the bench in the 1-0 win away at Everton on the opening day.

The striker was pictured on crutches after the match at Goodison Park but sources close to the player have played down potential injury concerns and described the measure as "precautionary".

Mitrovic scored 14 goals in 24 games in the Premier League last term and 43 in just 44 matches to break the Championship scoring record during Fulham's title-winning season a year earlier.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-balogun-arsenal-mitrovic-transfer-news-b1101203.html

Adama Traore's feelings about Wolves are crystal clear with latest Instagram post
Adama Traore is now a Fulham player, after leaving Wolves at the end of his contract.

The winger departed at the end of June, along with Diego Costa and Joao Moutinho.

Wolves held talks with Traore after his official exit from the club, according to sporting director Matt Hobbs.

But it was always the case that the Spaniard wanted a new challenge.

Many thought Traore would perhaps move back to Spain.

He also reportedly had a lot of interest from Napoli.

But Traore recently signed for Premier League side Fulham, where he will again link up with Raul Jimenez.

Traore may have moved on from Wolves, but the club clearly still holds a special place in his heart given a post he made on Instagram last night.

Adama Traore shares Wolves fan art on Instagram
Last week, Traore made a couple of posts on Instagram about Wolves.

And last night, five days after signing for Fulham, Traore was sharing Wolves-related things on social media.

(https://cdn1.molineux.news/uploads/2/2023/08/367672680_126644797183006_761692955097932490_n.jpg)
CR. adamatrd37 © 2023 INSTAGRAM FROM META

The 27-year-old first shared a reel uploaded by the official Premier League Instagram account, which was a montage of his dribbling and incredible running power.

He then shared what appears to be some fan art.

It is a cartoon of a person in tears outside Molineux with a sign saying 'Arm luber for hire'.

On the floor there is an 'Adama oil' box, which references the winger's trademark of applying baby oil for games.

Traore includes the caption 'Always in mi (heart emoji) Wolves fans'.

Adama Traore loves Wolves
He may have left the club, but you can tell Traore is extremely grateful to Wolves and genuinely loves and respects the club.

He's had his reasons for not extending his contract at Molineux.

It is a shame that he didn't stay, but you can also understand him wanting a fresh challenge after five years at the club.

Many Wolves fans will wish him well, but hopefully he doesn't perform so well to a point that it actually hurts his old club.



https://www.molineux.news/news/adama-traores-feelings-about-wolves-are-crystal-clear-with-latest-instagram-post/

Anfield stadium contractors file for administration – after delays at Liverpool and Fulham
The construction company responsible for Liverpool FC's new Anfield Road Stand, The Buckingham Group, has filed a notice to appoint administrators.

The news arrives two days ahead of Liverpool's first home game of the season, which was due to be the first game in front of the Reds' new stand and with a 61,000 capacity.

However, delays on Buckingham's work have meant that the new target date for completion is mid-October, but even that could now be in doubt.

Buckingham have also been responsible for the building of Fulham FC's new Riverside Stand, but that project is now over two years delayed.

It's the work at Craven Cottage that is reported to have led to Buckingham filing for administration, with Fulham updating their supporters this week that the new stand won't be completely ready until 2024/25 season.

Work on the Riverside Stand started in summer 2019 and was due to be complete in 2021, but Fulham were forced to delay the stand's opening twice, before a phased opening that began last season.

This news will be concerning to Liverpool supporters, who have been told that a similar approach will be taken with the new Anfield Road Stand.

A test event was held at Anfield on Tuesday this week in order to attain the safety certification for the Lower Tier, which remains largely the same as before development.

The new Upper Tier, though, will not host supporters vs. Bournemouth on Saturday and Anfield's capacity will be reduced to around 51,000.

Work on Liverpool's Anfield Road Stand began in September 2021, with an aim of completion in time for the new 2023/24 season.

The major concern now will be whether work can continue on the Anfield Road Stand while the company is in administration or if this will lead to further delays.

The company responsible for the cladding of the new stand, subcontractor SD Samuels, filed for administration in December and was understood to be one of the reasons for the delays at Anfield.



https://www.thisisanfield.com/2023/08/anfield-stadium-contractors-file-for-administration-after-delays-at-liverpool-and-fulham/

Report shares Fulham stance on Arsenal wanting £50m for Folarin Balogun
Fulham are unlikely to be prepared to pay £50 million for Folarin Balogun as they consider the Arsenal striker as a potential replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

That is according to a report from the Evening Standard, which notes that the Gunners want £50 million for the USMNT international this summer.

Folarin Balogun may well be one player who is on the move in the final couple of weeks in the transfer window. The Evening Standard reports that the 22-year-old wants to leave in search of first-team football.

Fulham unlikely to pay £50m for Balogun
He was 'incredible' during a loan spell with Reims last season. But so far, no-one has been prepared to meet the Gunners' demands for his signature.

But Fulham could soon make a move of their own for the youngster. The Cottagers are currently considering a £46 million bid from Saudi side Al-Hilal for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

And if the Serbia international does get the chance to move to the Kingdom, Marco Silva is interested in signing Balogun as a replacement.

However, the report claims that Fulham will likely want a discount on Arsenal's asking price for the striker.

Much may depend on what kind of role Mikel Arteta sees Balogun having if he stays. If the Arsenal boss believes that he has three or four options ahead of him, it makes little sense to keep him.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have spent a lot of money in the last couple of years. So they will probably want to bring in some funds. And Balogun is one of the available players who could command a substantial fee.

So it may be that it proves to be best for all parties for a compromise to be reached. Perhaps Arsenal should lower the price in the hope of including a buy-back clause.

That will protect them if Balogun goes on to become the striker many clearly think he could be.



https://tbrfootball.com/report-shares-fulham-stance-on-arsenal-wanting-50m-for-folarin-balogun/

Fulham could present offer in 'next few hours' after making contact – Player's replacement already lined up
Fulham have emerged as a new contender to sign Bologna's Riccardo Orsolini, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The 26-year-old can operate across the attacking line but was mainly used on the right-wing last season, where he scored 11 goals and registered four assists from 34 games. His displays seem to have attracted interest from Marco Silva's side.

It's claimed the Premier League side have already made contact with the Italian club for the forward.

Di Marzio adds Fulham could table an offer in the 'next few hours' to secure Orsolini's services. He doesn't specify Bologna's demands or the fee the London club could propose for the Italy international.

The attacker's contract expires in 2024 and the current window would be Bologna's last big chance to earn a fee from his sale.

Orsolini could leave in the next few weeks, which is why Bologna have already identified SC Freiburg's Roland Sallai as a candidate to replace him. Di Marzio states they will bet heavily on Sallai if the Italian were to be sold.

More developments could be expected if and when Fulham present an offer for Orsolini.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-present-offer-next-hours-making-contact-players-replacement-already-lined/

Arsenal (A) Sold Out
Tickets for Fulham's trip to Emirates Stadium to take on Arsenal on Saturday 26th August have now sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support!

A limited number of tickets for disabled supporters remain available, to book please contact the ticket office directly on 0203 871 0810.

Should the Club receive any ticket returns, please register your interest below to join our waiting list for this fixture:



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/17/arsenal-a-sold-out/

From Craven Cottage to Riyadh: Mitrovic's Next Journey?
Fulham's Gem, Mitrovic, Tempted by Al-Hilal's Lure

The Serbian Maestro in Sight
In the heart of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal has trained their gaze upon Fulham's crown jewel, Aleksandar Mitrovic. Their persistence, having been rebuffed with a £25.5m bid just last month, is proving tenacious. Amidst their recent triumphant acquisition of Neymar for a staggering £86.3m, the club's ambition soars, now believing they're on the cusp of adding Mitrovic to their roster suggest reports from The Guardian.

Changing Tunes & Rising Bids
While Fulham initially stood resolute, declaring their 28-year-old talisman wasn't on the market, the scene appears to be changing. Reports suggest that discussions have resumed, and the very walls of Craven Cottage may soon echo with the news of a deal exceeding £40m.

Al-Hilal's Star-Studded Line-Up
One can't help but admire Al-Hilal's recent transfer strategy. With acquisitions like Rúben Neves, Chelsea's Kalidou Koulibaly, Lazio's Sergei Milinkovic-Savic, and Neymar's fellow countryman Malcom (who stunned with a hat-trick against Abha), Mitrovic could be in illustrious company.

The Rise of Mitrovic at Fulham
Arriving at Fulham from Newcastle in July 2018, Mitrovic has been nothing short of phenomenal. Cementing his place at the core of the Fulham squad, he surprised many by warming the bench during the season opener at Everton. Yet, his credentials are undeniable – a lucrative five-year contract signed two years prior and shattering the Championship goalscoring record on Fulham's path to promotion.



https://eplindex.com/94594/from-craven-cottage-to-riyadh-mitrovics-next-journey.html

Fulham step up interest in Arsenal's Folarin Balogun, but the clubs are still £10m apart in their valuations of the striker with the Gunners holding out for £45m

    Fulham are £10million short of Arsenal's valuation of forward Folarin Balogun
    Arsenal are holding out for £45million for the 22-year-old USA international

Fulham have stepped up their interest in Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun but remain £10million short of the north London club's valuation.

The Gunners are holding out for £45million for the USA international, after he enjoyed a successful spell at in France with Stade Reims last season.

Mikel Arteta's side had initially wanted £50million before lowering their price-tag, however the Cottagers are only willing to pay a maximum of £35million. 

Balogun notched 21 goals in 37 Ligue 1 appearances in the 2022-23 season, with only PSG's Kylian Mbappe, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette and Lille's Jonathan David scoring more.

The 22-year-old made his debut for the US in June having switched international allegiance from England.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/10/74420047-0-image-a-1_1692265269693.jpg)
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been closely monitored by Fulham in recent weeks
 
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/10/74421437-12416485-Marco_Silva_is_hoping_to_add_Balogun_to_his_squad_at_Craven_Cott-a-1_1692266017824.jpg)
Fulham boss Marco Silva is keen to bolster his attacking options during the summer window

Balogun has been linked with moves to Monaco, Inter Milan and Tottenham throughout the summer but it appears Fulham are currently frontrunners for his signature.

The Cottagers are looking to boost their forward options with rumours persisting that Aleksandar Mitrovic is set for a big-money move to the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Hilal have reportedly revived their interest in the Serbian striker in recent days, tabling a £46million bid for the 28-year-old.

Mitrovic demanded to be allowed to join Al-Hilal earlier in the summer, although he did feature as a substitute in Fulham's 1-0 win at Everton on the opening day of the Premier League season.

Marco Silva is keen to add Everton's Demarai Gray, Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi and Leicester City's Timothy Castagne to his squad with the windfall from Mitrovic's sale.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/10/74421415-12416485-The_22_year_old_enjoyed_a_succesful_spell_at_Stade_Reims_in_Fran-a-2_1692266019523.jpg)
The 22-year-old enjoyed a succesful spell at Stade Reims in France last season

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/10/74421491-0-image-a-4_1692265502829.jpg)
Rumours persist that Aleksandar Mitrovic is set for a move to the Saudi Pro League

However, Balogun is likely to act as the direct replacement for Fulham's top-scorer from last season.

The striker trained on his own during Arsenal's tour of the US in the summer, and was left out of the matchday squad for their 2-1 win against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta is looking to trim his squad following another summer of heavy investment that has seen Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber arrive at the Emirates Stadium.

Although it is unlikely that a deal will be agreed in time for Balogun to make his Fulham debut at the weekend against Brentford, he could be set for a quick return to Arsenal as Silva's side visit the Emirates on Saturday, August 26.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12416485/Fulham-Arsenals-Folarin-Balogun-10m-apart-striker-Gunners-45m.html

New Arsenal exit opportunity opens up as Fulham prepare crafty swoop for £50m upgrade
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has now caught the attention of Fulham as a potential replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to reports.

Mitrovic is a top target for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, which means Fulham need a new forward, despite already bringing in Raul Jimenez from Wolves this summer. And according to the Daily Mail, Balogun could be their solution.

The USMNT striker is still at Arsenal after returning from a productive loan spell with Reims in France. However, Charles Watts told TEAMtalk this week to still expect a permanent exit for Balogun before the transfer window closes.

There have been various links with Premier League rivals for Balogun, including some in London. It has been suggested that Tottenham might move for him to fill their Harry Kane void, while TEAMtalk understands he is also of interest to West Ham United.

But now, the Daily Mail has claimed Fulham could also offer him a cross-capital switch, which would cost somewhere in the region of £50million.

There are two years remaining on Balogun's contract with Arsenal, but he wants regular first-team football, which he might not get there even after an injury to Gabriel Jesus.

Indeed, the 22-year-old – who has also been the subject of some bids by Monaco – is yet to feature for Arsenal in their first two games this season.

After scoring 22 goals for Reims last season, Balogun will be eager to maintain his momentum. Therefore, an exit is still on the cards if anyone can make a sufficient offer.

Balogun and Fulham could meet each other's needs
At Fulham, Balogun would likely become a focal point up front in the post-Mitrovic era. He would have big boots to fill after the Serbian star's 111 goals for the club, but given the age difference, could become a long-term successor.

Fulham have already signed Jimenez, Adama Traore and Calvin Bassey this summer – and, according to the report, are also interested in Manchester United's Eric Bailly and Benfica's Morato for their defence – while aiming to reinforce a squad that finished in the top half at the first attempt after their promotion from the Championship.

Things seem to be much more stable at Craven Cottage than the last couple of times they came up into the Premier League, but they will need to consolidate their status this season and any new additions should help.

Jimenez and Traore have both added to their attack, but neither are renowned for being prolific these days. Therefore, Balogun might be the most useful signing they could make to replace Mitrovic.

Whether they can succeed where others have failed, in terms of convincing Arsenal to sell, remains to be seen.

They would also have to persuade Balogun to give up participation in European football, but since that wasn't on offer at Reims last season anyway, theoretically it might not be the biggest issue.

Balogun has plenty of years ahead of him to aim for the highest level, but he needs to take steps to get there and Fulham would provide him with a platform of a decent standard to continue his development while earning a long-awaited Premier League breakthrough.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/new-arsenal-exit-opportunity-opens-fulham-prepare-smart-swoop-50m-star

Fulham want to reduce Balogun asking price
Fulham are not prepared to match Arsenal's asking price for American forward Folarin Balogun, according to a report from the Evening Standard this morning.

The Whites are interested in signing the 22 year-old striker, who is keen to leave the Emirates this summer and gain regular first-team football having starred on loan at Stade de Reims last season. The US international striker scored 21 Ligue 1 goals in 37 appearances during his stint in France and Arsenal have slapped a £50m price tag on his head. The Gunners have already rejected one bid for Balogun's services from Monaco, with the French side apparently preparing a new offer.

Fulham are apparently unwilling to pay such a hefty fee for a forward who remains unproven in the Premier League – and whether the Whites are in the market for another striker will depend on Aleksandar Mitrovic's future. The Serbian striker remains a target of Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, but head coach Marco Silva has successfully reintegrated the talimsanic number nine back into his squad after the Londoners rejected two bids earlier this summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-want-to-reduce-balogun-asking-price/

Fulham Star Still Waiting For Cottagers To Decide On Bid For Him
Aleksander Mitrovic is still not aware of Fulham's response to Al Hilal's bid to sign him this summer, according to the Evening Standard.

The Saudi Arabian outfit have been chasing the frontman all summer and the player has made it clear that he wants the move.

The Craven Cottage outfit however do not want to lose their star man and rejected Al Hilal's first two offers.

They made another bid worth £46m for the Serbian in recent days and it was claimed that the Saudi outfit are very close to capturing Mitrovic.

However, Al Hilal submitted their bid two days ago and the 28-year-old is yet to have any clarity about the Premier League club's decision about the offer.

Mitrovic came on as a substitute in Fulham's opening-day league win against Everton on Saturday even though he vowed to never play for the club again.

He has had an agreement with Al Hilal for some time now and made it known that Al Hilal is the only club he wants to play for in recent days.

Now it remains to be seen if the Cottagers will respond to Al Hilal's offer for Mitrovic with the player desperate to leave before the transfer window slams shut.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/08/17/fulham-star-still-waiting-for-cottagers-to-decide-on-bid-for-him/615951/

'A consideration': £25m Leeds player could now end up signing for Fulham – journalist
Wilfried Gnonto is pushing to leave Leeds.

The Italian attacker is refusing to train at the moment, and he has been the subject of a £25m offer from Everton in recent times.

However, a move to Goodison Park may not be Gnonto's first-choice.

According to Dean Jones, speaking on the Fulhamish Podcast, Gnonto has worries about Everton's chances of staying in the Premier League, and he may prefer a move to a team in a stronger position in the Premier League.

According to Jones, Fulham are considering a move for Gnonto, stating that the forward has been touted around to a few clubs.

Fulham an option for Gnonto
"Fulham haven't gone for Gnonto but I know it's at least a consideration because he's been to touted around to a few clubs. Gnonto has got Everton on the table as his most firm offer and he's looking at that deal very open minded about it, but his fear is that in a year's time he is relegated anyway and he's back in the same situation, so there's that lingering doubt about where Everton are actually heading,' Jones said.
Leeds United v Southampton - Premier League

Unstable
Gnonto wants to go to a team that is guaranteed survival in the Premier League, and as much as we hate to say it, Fulham aren't in that category right now.

The Whites are in a bit of a pickle at the moment. They're seemingly about to lose Aleksandar Mitrovic, and after just three signings so far this summer, they're massively lacking depth.

They have a talented squad, but as we saw with Leicester last season, a good team on paper doesn't guarantee survival.

Gnonto may want to aim slightly higher and head to a team that is almost certain to stay in the Premier League next term.



https://tbrfootball.com/a-consideration-25m-leeds-player-could-now-end-up-signing-for-fulham-journalist/

Man Utd 'agree' exit amid Fulham 'interest' after player 'refused' to join ex-Liverpool man at Besiktas
According to reports, Manchester United have 'agreed' to let centre-back Eric Bailly leave on a free transfer amid interest from rivals Fulham.

Man Utd have been busy in the transfer market this summer as significant fees have been spent to sign Mason Mount, Andre Onana and Rasmus Hojlund.

The Red Devils are understood to still be in the market for a centre-back and centre-midfielder but they need to sell players to raise funds for their own signings.

David De Gea, Anthony Elanga, Alex Telles and Fred have all moved on this summer but more players are expected to leave Old Trafford before the summer transfer window closes.

Bailly is one United outcast likely to secure an exit in the coming weeks. The Red Devils spent £30m to sign him in 2016 but he has been restricted to just 70 Premier League appearances as he has been hampered by injuries over the past seven years.

The 29-year-old spent last season on loan at Ligue Un side Marseille. He is out of contract in 2024 and he is not part of Erik ten Hag's plans.

Earlier this month, it looked like Bailly was set to join Turkish side Besiktas – who have recently acquired former Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – but he has also been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

Now RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins is reporting that Bailly has an 'agreement with Man Utd' that will allow him to leave on a free transfer this summer.

Bailly 'refused' a move to Besiktas, but Fulham are 'interested'. He is also said to have 'exit doors in Saudi Arabia and Turkey'.

It was also thought that Harry Maguire will leave Man Utd after they accepted a £30m bid from West Ham United but this transfer has since fallen through.

Former Premier League forward Darren Bent thinks Maguire needs to "get out" of Man Utd and "start again" elsewhere.

"Harry's got to make a decision," Bent told talkSPORT. "Does he want to stay somewhere that clearly doesn't want him and have played other players that don't even play that position ahead of him like Luke Shaw, and that have taken the captaincy away from you?

"The fans don't trust you, your teammates don't trust you, your manager doesn't trust you. Get out of there and go and start again. He can go to West Ham and have a fantastic career at another big club."



https://www.football365.com/news/man-utd-agree-fulham-interest-player-refused-join-ex-liverpool-man-besiktas

Fulham 'have asked' about Man United's Eric Bailly
Fulham have shown an interest in signing Man United defender, Eric Bailly.

Manchester United Football Club are still in a mode where they have to sell before they can buy. The Red Devils need to generate funds (and space in the squad), before Erik ten Hag will be given more money to spend.

Several players have been linked with exits, though their excessive wages are seemingly making it tough to move on from. Harry Maguire is the prime example of that, while Eric Bailly is another centre-back who United want to sell.

So far, Ten Hag has been unsuccessful on both of those fronts. However, the club may be about to be given a lifeline in Bailly's situation.

It's the Daily Mail with the story. According to their report, the fellow Premier League club 'have asked' about potentially signing the 29-year-old United defender this summer. However, that's as far as it has gone at this stage.

Fulham are looking to bring in another defender to bolster their options, while Bailly would represent a relatively cheap option, when you consider his talent and ability.

The problem? His injury record. United would love to get his wages off the books but he's just so unreliable. I do not see Fulham taking a gamble, unless he's allowed to leave for free, while no doubt that the London club would expect United to cover some of his wages.

This is just another example of United making more problems for themselves and unless the attitude changes, then this issue is going to keep happening.

I'd love to see Bailly leave, but I just don't see Fulham backing up their interest with a firm offer.



https://oldtraffordfaithful.com/fulham-have-asked-about-man-uniteds-eric-bailly/

Two Away Days Moved
Fulham's match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, originally scheduled for Saturday 21st October, will now take place on Monday 23rd October and kick-off at 8pm.

The fixture will be televised live on Sky Sports.

We were due to face Brighton & Hove Albion the following Saturday, but this fixture will now take place on Sunday 29th October (2pm) due to the Seagulls' midweek participation in the Europa League.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/17/spurs-away-televised-brighton-date-change/

Fulham to use £46m Aleksandar Mitrovic windfall to sign Everton ace Demarai Gray
Fulham want to use the £46million windfall from the potential sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic to fund a move for Everton ace Demarai Gray, according to the Daily Mail.

The publication reported on its website on Thursday (17 August) that Cottagers boss Marco Silva is keen to sign the Toffees winger this summer.

The move would come if Mitrovic is sold to Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, who have offered Fulham £46million for the Serbian [Daily Mail, 16 August].

"Al-Hilal have offered £46m for Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic after signing Neymar from Paris St Germain in a £77.6million deal," according to the Daily Mail (16 August).

The publication then reported that "Marco Silva is keen to add Everton's Demarai Gray, Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi and Leicester City's Timothy Castagne to his squad with the windfall from Mitrovic's sale."

Summer move likely

Everton look highly likely to move Gray on this summer, and it seems that their Premier League rivals Fulham are his most likely destination.

The Cottagers have been reluctant to lose star striker Mitrovic, but they could still come out well from his sale if they manage to bring in a handful of new faces with his potential £46million fee.

Gray wouldn't be a direct replacement for the Serbian, but the winger could still play a key role out wide under Silva this season, with the player's Everton days slowly winding down.

The 27-year-old has registered 12 goals and six assists from 75 Toffees appearances, figures that should really be improved upon if he wants to enjoy a successful individual season this time around, wherever that may be.

The Merseyside club have snapped up Jack Harrison from Leeds United on loan for the campaign, further evidence that Gray has no future with the Toffees.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/08/17/fulham-to-use-46m-aleksandar-mitrovic-windfall-to-sign-everton-ace-demarai-gray/

Liverpool keen on signing Fulham's Joao Palhinha this summer
Liverpool have identified Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha as a prime target but are reluctant to meet his £60m price tag, according to the Daily Mail.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is desperately trying to bring in a new defensive midfielder before the window closes on September 1st after missing out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavai to Chelsea this month.

Caicedo completed his transfer to the West Londoners on Monday while the Blues have finally agreed a deal with the Saints to sign  Lavia. The 19-year-old is expected to undergo his medical this week before putting pen to paper on a long-term contract.

Lavia was heavily linked with a move to Anfield but he has opted to join Mauricio Pochettino's side therefore Liverpool have switched attention to other alternatives as they look to bring in a defensive midfielder this summer.

The Daily Mail claims that the Reds have lined up six midfield targets including Fulham's Palhinha, Crystal Palace's Cheick Doucoure, Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat, Kalvin Phillips of Manchester City, Fluminese star Andre and Nice's Khephren Thuram.

Reluctant
The report says Palhinha is Liverpool's prime target but the Reds are reluctant to meet Fulham's £60m asking price as the 28-year-old is much older than the profile of player they have been targeting this summer.

The Portuguese international has four years left on his contract with Fulham, having joined them from Sporting Lisbon last summer. He racked up 40 appearances and scored four goals in competitions as Marco Silva's outfit finished 10th in the Premier League table last season.

The Portugal international is currently on the sidelines after sustaining a suspected dislocated shoulder during a friendly against Brentford on their pre-season tour of the United States. The extent of the injury is unknown but it is believed that he will return to action in the coming weeks.

We will have to wait and see if Liverpool decide to meet Palhinha's valuation but he would be an excellent signing for the Reds if they decide to take him to Anfield this summer.



https://football-talk.co.uk/190208/liverpool-keen-on-signing-fulhams-joao-palhinha-this-summer/

Fulham defender to join League One club on loan, reporter says
Fulham defender Luciano D'Auria is poised to join Cheltenham Town on loan, reports Fabrizio Romano.

Fulham are poised to let the full-back head into League One to get some experience under his belt in the Football League.

D'Auria, 20, has risen up through the youth ranks at Craven Cottage but is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Premier League side.

Reporter Romano has taken to Twitter (see tweet below) to share the news that the youngster will be linking up with Cheltenham for the upcoming season.

New face incoming at Cheltenham
Cheltenham are in need of some new signings following a tricky start to the new third tier campaign under Wade Elliot. They have lost all three of their opening league games against Shrewsbury Town, Bolton Wanderers and Reading and could do with some more quality in their ranks.

The Robins are yet to score and will likely turn their attention to attacking reinforcements if they can get a deal over the line for D'Auria now.

He will give the Robins more competition and depth at the back and would give them another option to pick from which is useful when the fixtures start to stack up.

D'Auria made 27 competitive appearances for Fulham's U18's before making the step up to the U23's a couple of years ago. He has since played 38 times for the latter and has chipped in with a single goal and six assists.

A temporary switch to Cheltenham now will help boost his development and is likely to be more beneficial then playing youth football. The Gloucestershire outfit are back in action this weekend with an away trip to Portsmouth and they hunt for their first win.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/08/17/fulham-defender-to-join-league-one-club-on-loan-reporter-says/

Cheltenham Town set to sign Fulham wing-back Luciano D'Auria-Henry
Second loan signing of the summer imminent

Cheltenham Town are set to sign Luciano D'Auria-Henry on loan from Fulham ahead of this weekend's trip to Portsmouth.

The 20-year-old attacking right wing-back has progressed through the ranks at his Premier League parent club since Under-11 level.

He was named on the bench for their EFL Cup tie against Crawley Town last season, but he is yet to make his first team debut for the Cottagers and this will be his first loan experience.

D'Auria-Henry, who is eligible to represent England, Italy and Dominican internationally, will go straight into Wade Elliott's squad to face Pompey away in League One on Saturday.

And Gloucestershire Live understands Cheltenham are also close to completing the signing of a loan defender from another top flight club.

Cheltenham have lost all four of their matches in league and cup this season without scoring.

Attacking midfielder Oli Hammond from Nottingham Forest was their first loan addition this summer, along with permanent additions Curtis Davies, Rob Street, Jamie Pardington, Luke Southwood, Liam Smith and Curtis Thompson.



https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/cheltenham-town-set-sign-fulham-8684182

Fulham vs Brentford lineups: Predicted XIs, confirmed team news and injury latest

Brentford are sweating over the fitness of three players ahead of facing Fulham this weekend.

Ben Mee could make his first appearance of the campaign if he overcomes a calf injury while Frank Onyeka is nearing a return from his hamstring issue.

Thomas Frank was handed a fresh worry last weekend when Mathias Jensen went off against Tottenham with a thigh injury.

"Ben Mee will hopefully available for Fulham and as for Mathias, we don't know," said the Brentford boss post-match. "It appeared to be a thigh problem. We will just have to wait and see."

Kevin Schade could enter the attack for a rejig to 4-3-3 and join Bryan Mbeumo in flanking Yoanne Wissa in Ivan Toney's absence.

Fulham are once again without Joao Palhinha (shoulder).

The latest developments in Aleksandar Mitrovic's future could see him left out after Marco Silva benched the striker for the win at Everton, amid Al-Hilal's attempt to sign him.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid is pushing to start ahead of Willian after his winner at Goodison Park.

Predicted Fulham XI: Leno; Tete, Diop, Ream, Robinson; Reed, Lukic, Pereira; Wilson, Jimenez, Willian

Predicted Brentford XI: Flekken; Hickey, Collins, Mee, Henry; Jensen, Norgaard, Janelt; Mbeumo, Wissa, Schade



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-vs-brentford-lineups-predicted-xi-confirmed-team-news-injury-latest-premier-league-2023-b1101337.html

The Sean Davis Column
We may not have been at our best last weekend, but a win is a win at the end of the day. It's a tough place to go, you know, Everton. When I was a Fulham player we always struggled with Everton away. Sean Dyche kept them up last season and now he's had a full pre-season with them. Goodison Park is always a very difficult fixture, especially when the crowd is with them. When you go to Everton away I think you've got to try and silence the home fans. That did happen on Saturday, but probably more as a result of their poor finishing! Sometimes you need your goalkeeper to stand up and save you, and that's what Bernd Leno did. He made some great saves. A clean sheet away from home and three points, it might have been a bit of a smash and grab, but we'll take that all day long, as my good friend Gentleman Jim would say.

On the subject of Leno, he's been class from day one. He's got a big frame, he's dominant, he's good with his feet, so we've got a great one there. We've had some excellent goalkeepers in the past. The two that stand out are Edwin van der Sar and Mark Schwarzer, and Bernd is right up there with them if he continues the way he's going.

Talking of goalkeepers winning Fulham points, my mind immediately goes to Arsenal at Highbury in 2003. It was a goalless draw but we got in the changing room after and we were laughing our heads off because it was literally a robbery. Obviously we didn't win the game, but to take a point against that Arsenal team felt like three points. Edwin was awesome that game, but he was awesome from start to finish in his Fulham career, just the way he went about himself around the training ground, what he ate, how he looked after himself, the professionalism he showed. It's not often you can say you played with world class players, but he was definitely that.

Moving onto our summer business, I think re-signing Willian is fantastic, not only because he's someone that people pay to watch because he's so fantastic, but just imagine what an inspiration he is to the young players in training. That can only be good for the Academy, and for the team. He's not in the team just because he's Willian, he's in the team because he works hard and he brings so much quality to the side with his assists and goals, so it's fantastic to re-sign him.

We know Raúl Jiménez scores goals, we know he gets in the right positions, he's got great movement, so hopefully we can get balls in the right areas, and I'm sure he'll score plenty of goals for us. He was unlucky to hit the post on Saturday, and he seems to have settled in really well. To bring in someone of that calibre to give us a different dimension up top is a great bit of business from the Club.

I really like the look of Calvin Bassey. I think he's a very good option for us at the back. He's got speed, power, pace. Now it's just about him settling in, learning what's expected from our centre-halves, what the manager wants, and I'm sure he'll be a great addition to the squad.

Adama Traoré offers something completely different to anyone else in the squad, and you need that. You need pace, you need power. A lot of people will look at Adama and think he should be playing at a higher level, so it's a real coup that we've managed to bring him in. He was at Barcelona two seasons ago, so the talent is certainly there. Everyone has stages in their career where it all just clicks, and for me it feels like working with Marco Silva could bring the best out of Adama. He'll love it here, he'll love the area, and we've seen how good Marco is at bringing the best out of players.

Brentford on Saturday is an absolute cracker for our first home game of the season. I watched their match against Spurs on Sunday. They're obviously missing Ivan Toney, but they've got so much quality, as was shown by the two guys up top [Bryan Mbeumo & Yoane Wissa] both scoring. They move the ball quickly, they're very direct, set-pieces we're going to have to be on our toes. It's a London derby as well, a massive game for us. I wouldn't want to be around Jim an hour before kick-off, because he gets so nervous ahead of these matches as he lives in Brentford so is surrounded by their fans! But our home form last season was great, so hopefully we can continue that this year.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/17/the-sean-davis-column/

Sky: Fulham open talks with Bologna for Orsolini
Sky Sport Italia claims Fulham have opened talks with Bologna for Riccardo Orsolini and will soon submit an offer for the 26-year-old.

The Italian winger completed his best-ever Serie A campaign in 2022-23, scoring 11 goals in 32 league appearances, but hasn't reached an agreement to extend his contract at the Stadio Dall'Ara beyond June 2024.

Now, according to Sky Sport Italia, Premier League side Fulham have opened talks to sign the ex-Ascoli and Atalanta winger.

There is still no offer for the Rossoblu, but according to the report, Fulham will soon submit their opening bid for the 26-year-old.

According to the report, Bologna have already identified a potential replacement for Orsolini. It's Roland Sallai, currently under contract with Bundesliga side Freiburg.

Orsolini has scored 40 goals in 182 Serie A appearances and joined Bologna from Juventus on an initial loan deal in January 2018. The Rossoblu made his move permanent in July 2019 for €15m.



https://football-italia.net/sky-fulham-open-talks-with-bologna-for-orsolini/

Fulham could use £46m windfall to fund move for 'unbelievable' Everton man Demarai Gray
Fulham could be about to make a move for Everton attacker Demarai Gray with the London club potentially about to receive a cash windfall.

The 27-year-old, who Rio Ferdinand described as an 'unbelievable find' last season has been linked with a move to Marco Silva's side this summer.

Indeed, the Cottagers are said to be keen on a move for the Everton player, and could make a move for the winger should they sell Serbian forward Aleksander Mitrovic.

Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal have reportedly offered Fulham £46m for the 28-year-old, who could link up with Brazilian international Neymar, who recently made the £77.6m switch from PSG.

According to the Daily Mail, Fulham would then be interested in reinvesting the cash windfall in Everton winger Demarai Gray, who himself was recently linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League.

Gray now looking set to join Fulham with absence this weekend a huge hint at exit
Demarai Gray was absent from Everton's opening fixture of the Premier League season last weekend, as the Toffees suffered a disappointing if not predictable 1-0 defeat to the visitors.

The Blues created a plethora of opportunities, but poor finishing proved costly as Fulham snatched all three points with a second half strike.

However, Everton have just brought in Jack Harrison from Leeds United on a season-long loan deal, and though he is currently out injured, the 27-year-old may have been brought in to replace the outgoing Gray.

Having paid just £1.7m for the Jamaican international back in the summer of 2021, Everton could make a sizable profit on the attacker, who's form has always been inconsistent.

The former Leicester City player is capable of producing a goal out of nothing and has scored some spectacular long-range efforts, but perhaps doesn't work hard enough to suit a manager like Sean Dyche.



https://www.grandoldteam.com/2023/08/17/fulham-could-use-46m-windfall-to-fund-move-for-unbelievable-everton-man-demarai-gray/

Fulham: Riverside Stand redevelopment further delayed after construction company enters administration

Buckingham Group Contracting had also been working on Liverpool's development of the Anfield Road Stand

Fulham's redevelopment of the Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage has been further delayed after the construction company overseeing the project went into administration.

Buckingham Group Contracting have filed for administration and Fulham have said they now do not expect the redevelopment to be finished until the start of the 2024/25 season.

Work on the Riverside Stand started in 2019 and was initially due to be completed in 2021.

Buckingham Group Contracting have also overseen Liverpool's development of the Anfield Road Stand at Anfield.

Fulham did not comment about the company going into administration but said in a statement: "Many of the principal delay factors include addressing difficult site conditions during the demolition of the old stand, as well as remedying issues arising out of the construction of the new stand.

"Whilst it has taken time to address these factors, good progress is now being made on the fit-out phase and we will start to open first-class spaces in the new stand during 2024.

"Not all spaces will be completed at the same time. As soon as the first hospitality areas start to open, we will provide further details.

(https://static.standard.co.uk/2023/08/17/15/newFile.jpg?width=960&auto=webp&quality=100&crop=2588%3A1725%2Csmart)
Work ongoing: Fulham have been redeveloping the Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage since 2019 / Getty Images

"Before then, and for the 2023-24 season, the ground floor internal and external concourses are available to all Riverside Stand ticket holders whilst these areas continue to be developed and completed during the 2024 close season.

"Additional seating in the new stand will be available, subject to licensing, from the commencement of the 2024-25 season.

"Both the club and fans have been anticipating the full opening of the stand, which we had hoped would be by now, and we understand supporter frustrations. Rest assured that work continues diligently to deliver on the promise of a truly remarkable and world-class experience."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-riverside-stand-redevelopment-delayed-b1101369.html

Arsenal wantaway star Folarin Balogun eyed by Fulham as replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic
Fulham could reportedly switch their attention to Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun if Aleksandar Mitrovic leaves the club this summer.

Despite an impressive first season back in the Premier League, Marco Silva's side may need to dip into the market for a new striker.

Mitrovic was offered a contract worth £21.3mllion-per-year by Al Hilal earlier in the window but Fulham reject two offers from them.

However, the Saudi Pro League side have reignited their interest in the Serbian and have offered almost £47million for his services.

The striker himself is keen on the move to the Gulf state having joined Fulham from Newcastle in 2018.

He has scored 111 goals for the west London side and 28 of those have come in the Premier League, but he could be set for a departure.

Should this happen, the Evening Standard report that Arsenal forward Balogun is on their list of targets.

The 22-year-old is keen to leave the Gunners this summer following a highly impressive loan spell at Reims last season.

Balogun scored 22 goals for the French side, with Arsenal already rejecting a formal bid for him from Monaco.

A move to Craven Cottage could see him compete alongside summer signing Raul Jimenez for a starting spot up front.

talkSPORT reported earlier in August that West Ham may also eye a potential move for the USA international.

Balogun was not named in Arsenal's squad for their Community Shield win over Manchester City.

He was also omitted from the side that beat Nottingham Forest last weekend, with his future likely to be away from the Gunners.



https://talksport.com/football/1536571/

Fulham interested in Gonzalo Montiel
Fulham will reportedly look to sign 26-year-old World Cup winner Gonzalo Montiel from Sevilla in the ongoing transfer window.

According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Gonzalo Montiel is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are looking to sign a right-back before the summer transfer window shuts down. And the 26-year-old World Cup winner has emerged as a top target for the West London club.

Gonzalo Montiel has spent most of his professional career thus far in his homeland. After graduating from the River Plate youth division, he became a regular for the Argentine giants. And he also broke into his national side before earning a move to Europe in August 2021, joining La Liga giants Sevilla.

The 26-year-old has shared game time with Sevilla captain Jesus Navas since arriving at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium. And he has managed only seven minutes of action in the two games thus far this term. Meanwhile, Sevilla will likely open the exit door for the 26-year-old in the ongoing transfer window.

Montiel, who scored the winning penalty when Argentina won the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, faces an uncertain future at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium. And he has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa. But the player's next destination might be Fulham.

The Cottagers are focusing on signing a striker and a left-back this summer. Marco Silva's main concern is bringing in a long-term replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic, who wants to move to Saudi Arabia. But the Fulham boss might be open to securing the services of a right-back due to the inconsistencies of Kevin Mbabu and Kenny Tete.

Montiel has thus emerged as a viable target for Fulham. And the 26-year-old World Cup winner will bring a trophy-winning pedigree to Craven Cottage, considering the success he has enjoyed for his club and country. Meanwhile, with Sevilla open to selling him, the Argentine international might be an easy acquisition.

It will be interesting to see if Fulham can quickly secure Montiel's services once they launch the offensive for his signature. For now, the World Cup winner has emerged as a viable target for the West London club.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/08/17/fulham-interested-in-gonzalo-montiel/

Fabrizio Romano says £50m Tottenham striker target is about to join another club
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic this summer, but it looks like he's on his way to Saudi Arabia now.

Spurs are on the market looking for a new striker. They need to fill the void that Harry Kane has left up top, and it will not be easy to find someone of that level.

Among all the names linked with a move to Tottenham was Mitrovic, but Fabrizio Romano has claimed on The Daily Briefing that he's off to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.

Fabrizio Romano says Tottenham target Aleksandar Mitrovic is joining Al Hilal
Aleksandar Mitrovic has been incredible for Fulham over the years.

The Serbian scored 14 goals in 24 Premier League appearances last season, which is an excellent return and one which appears to have impressed Tottenham.

90min reported earlier this month that Mitrovic is on Tottenham's transfer shortlist as they lined up possible replacements for Kane, who joined Bayern Munich last week.

The 28-year-old Fulham man would definitely have been an interesting option at Spurs, but Romano has now claimed that he's closing in on a move to Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal.

He said: "Al Hilal are finalising move to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic! A deal is now imminent, waiting for final approval as formal bid has been sent.

"Mitrovic agreed terms with Al Hilal in July and he's just waiting for Fulham green light to make it happen in the next hours."

TBR View:
It doesn't look like Tottenham will be able to sign Mitrovic, and that may just prove to be a blessing in disguise if Ange Postecoglou really wanted him.

The Serbian is undoubtedly a brilliant player, but he will turn 29 next month. Fulham are reportedly demanding £50 million to let him go, which is just too much for some of his age.

Tottenham will likely be able to find much better options on the market than Mitrovic – preferably someone younger with huge potential.

Gift Orban has been heavily linked recently, and he would be a great option in our opinion.



https://tbrfootball.com/fabrizio-romano-says-50m-tottenham-striker-target-is-about-to-join-another-club/

Exclusive: Sunderland, Millwall and QPR in race to sign Fulham player
Sunderland, Millwall and QPR are all keen on Fulham forward Jay Stansfield.

    Fulham's Jay Stansfield is attracting interest from clubs like Sunderland, Millwall, and QPR, who are looking to sign the highly-rated 20-year-old attacker.
    Stansfield has shown his potential with impressive performances and goals during his loan at Exeter in League One.
    The player's priority is to secure regular playing time, and clubs like Sunderland, Millwall, and QPR could provide the opportunities he needs to continue his development in the Championship.

Sunderland, Millwall and QPR are among a host of clubs who are keen on signing Fulham's Jay Stansfield, Football League World can exclusively reveal.

Who is Jay Stansfield?
The 20-year-old came through the ranks at Exeter, before signing for Fulham as a teenager in 2019, and he has gone on to make eight appearances for the Cottagers, including three in the Premier League.

Whilst he remains highly-rated, the reality is that he wouldn't get regular minutes at Craven Cottage, so a loan to Exeter was sorted last season.

It was an emotional move for Stansfield, who is the son of Grecians favourite Adam, who sadly passed away in 2010.

The youngster excelled in League One, scoring nine goals in 36 games, whilst he impressed with his all-round game that made him a constant threat to the opposition. Now back with Fulham, Stansfield has been with Marco Silva's side for pre-season, and he was an unused substitute in the opening day win over Everton.

Championship interest emerges in Jay Stansfield
However, FLW can confirm that a move is on the cards for the player before the deadline, with Sunderland, Millwall and QPR having all registered their interest in the player.

Crucially, Fulham are willing to let Stansfield go to continue his development, but they are waiting for Aleksandar Mitrovic's situation to be sorted first.

It's no secret that Al-Hilal are desperate to sign the Serbian international, and the Cottagers want to know his future, and potentially sort out replacements, before they let Stansfield go.

However, there is an expectation that Mitrovic's future will be resolved in the next week or so, which should open the door for Stansfield's exit.

As well as the Championship trio, there is interest in League One, so Fulham won't be short on options when they plot the next move for their exciting talent.

Which clubs need to sign Jay Stansfield?
Firstly, you can understand why there is so much interest in the attacker, as Stansfield is someone with enormous potential, and he will keep improving over the next 12 months.

He's not just a goalscorer either, with the seven assists he registered last season proving he is someone who can link play, and he has an eye for a pass.

Sunderland seem an obvious fit with their style of play, and Tony Mowbray has shown he is a manager that will give young players a chance to flourish. Meanwhile, Millwall and QPR are both in need of attacking reinforcements, so Stansfield could be given the opportunities he craves in the second tier.

Realistically from the perspective of the player, he needs to be playing week in, week out.

The fact he moved to Exeter shows how Stansfield values game time, and his performances in the third tier proved he is ready for the step-up.

With that in mind, you'd have to say whoever does bring him in would be making a shrewd addition, and it will be interesting to see where he ends up, and how this season progresses for the England youth international.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/exclusive-sunderland-millwall-and-qpr-in-race-to-sign-fulham-player/

D'Auria-Henry set for Cheltenham Town loan
Fulham wing-back Luciano D'Auria-Henry is poised to join League One Cheltenham Town on loan, according to various reports this afternoon.

The 20 year-old, who was converted from a winger into a right back during his time in the Motpsur Park youth set-up, has shone for Fulham's under 21s and recently signed an extension to his professional contract. The Ealing born right-back was named on the bench by Marco Silva for Fulham's EFL Cup defeat at Crawley Town last season and sparked a spirited comeback in the under 21s 3-2 win at Wolverhampton Wanderers last Friday night by supplying two assists in the closing stages.

Fulham are keen to give D'Auria-Henry a taste of senior football and is expected to be in contention to make his Cheltenham debut for Wade Elliott's side at Portsmouth on Saturday.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/dauria-henry-set-for-cheltenham-town-loan/

Fulham contemplating Folarin Balogun swoop
Fulham are considering a move for £50 million-rated Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

According to a report by Mail Sport, Arsenal's Folarin Balogun could become a target for Fulham in their efforts to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serb is closing in on leaving the Cottagers and joining Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia. So Marco Silva could target the £50 million-rated prospect from the North London club as a viable option.

The Folarin Balogun chase has another entrant in the mix, with Fulham now vying for the £50 million-rated prospect from Arsenal. Mikel Arteta has given enough indications to suggest the USMNT international does not feature in his plans for the season and that the club are open to offers at their price.

Inter Milan were close at one stage but bowed out, citing the £50 million price tag of the striker. There have been rumblings about Chelsea and even Tottenham's reported interest in the youngster, but nothing concrete has come up.

AS Monaco came the closest and lodged a reasonable bid for the striker. With Arsenal rejecting their offer, the French giants could return with another proposal closer to the £50 million asking price. West Ham United are also interested on the sidelines and could make a move for the forward before the window closes.

Meanwhile, Fulham are considering a move for the 22-year-old forward. Aleksandar Mitrovic has pushed to leave the club all summer ever since the interest from the Saudi Pro League became apparent. As per Fabrizio Romano, a deal with Al-Hilal could materialise in the coming days as the striker's days at Craven Cottage are numbered.

Arsenal are open to letting him join Fulham or any other club if the bid matches their expectations. Their £50 million price tag has its justifications, but Marco Silva might look to pay less, despite the money they could receive from Al-Hilal.

As per various yet unconfirmed reports, Fulham might net £46 million from Al-Hilal, which could push Arsenal to ask closer to £50 million for Balogun. Things could accelerate if the Cottagers negotiate with the Gunners over a proposed move.

Right from the start, negotiations for Balogun with Arsenal have looked difficult for many clubs interested in the USMNT striker. Fulham could try their way of talking to the Gunners and finding an agreement in the coming days.

Balogun would represent a solid purchase for Silva and Fulham, considering he has a long future ahead. Whether they pay close to Arsenal's asking price remains the question, but they must replace Mitrovic with another top-class centre-forward, for the Serb's loss could result in a lack of goals in the current season.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/08/17/fulham-contemplating-folarin-balogun-swoop/

Tony Khan Is Ready For AEW's 'Single Biggest Opportunity' At All In

When the Jacksonville Jaguars played host to the Denver Broncos at London's Wembley Stadium in October last year, fans caught a clip that featured star quarterback Trevor Lawrence and Blackpool Combat Club member Claudio Castagnoli as part of a promotional shoot for AEW's English TV partner, ITV.

That brief crossover was Tony Khan's early work in planting the seeds for the wrestling promotion's eventual European debut. Khan, AEW's founder and the Jags' chief football strategy officer, has known for a long time that he wanted to run his first London show at Wembley, but admits the outpouring of interest has exceeded even their very optimistic early projections.

"We stand on the verge of breaking so many historical milestones," Khan tells Uproxx Sports. "Certainly this will be the biggest wrestling event ever in Europe and one of the biggest events in history."

As of this writing, AEW has sold more than 80,000 tickets and stands less than 800 tickets away from breaking the all-time paid ticket sales record — per WrestleTix, WWE set that record by selling 80,709 tickets for WrestleMania 32.

AEW has known of the significant interest in a large-scale show abroad, but Khan admits that Wembley wasn't the only venue the promotion considered for its first All In show. Khan also considered Craven Cottage, the oldest football stadium in London and home to the Premier League's Fulham FC, which boasts a record attendance of 49,335 from a soccer match in 1938. (Khan serves as the vice chairman and director of football operations for the club.)

"There's two places I thought about," Khan says. "One is also very dear to my heart, and that's Craven Cottage. Wembley is, for a pro wrestling event, the more economical choice for many reasons. In that, you can have much more capacity for attendance since Wembley is a larger stadium by far, and also, the same wonderful charms of Craven Cottage and all the history of that magnificent venue. (Craven Cottage) poses so many challenges to loading in a pro wrestling event and it would cost millions more to produce the event at Craven Cottage than at Wembley."

For Khan, the magnitude of this show hasn't set in yet, although he calls it the "single biggest opportunity" the promotion has ever had. It follows the trend of taking a leap of faith like the Young Bucks and Cody Rhodes did at the original All In back in 2018, which made history as a self-promoted independent show that sold 10,000 tickets.

The group that puts the Elite in All Elite Wrestling recently committed their collective futures to the promotion and are expected to be heavily involved in the show. The Young Bucks will feature prominently in another dream showdown with FTR over the AEW World Tag Team Championships, while Kenny Omega, Hangman Page, and Kota Ibushi will face off against Juice Robinson, Jay White, and Takeshita.

"Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks have been a huge part of what we do since the very beginning, both in the ring and backstage," Khan says. "AEW started when I first spoke to The Young Bucks about this idea that I wanted to launch a pro wrestling promotion and I was trying to get people to support it. Hangman Page is one of our first champions, a great world champion and also a great world tag team champion and one of our top stars. And I think all four of them are a huge part of the the identity of the company."

MJF versus Adam Cole for the AEW World Championship is the main event, featuring one of the best enemies-turned-friends storylines in some time. The Fatal 4-way match between Hikaru Shida, Toni Storm, Saraya, and Britt Baker is sure to be a barnburner for the AEW Women's Championship. Chris Jericho against Will Ospreay is a match that's been years in the making. The just-announced Stadium Stampede will be a brawl between the Blackpool Combat Club, Eddie Kingston, Best Friends, and Lucha Bros.

And then, there's Sting.

Khan says the opportunity to spotlight the icon's return to the ring is the one thing he never truly expected to happen in AEW.

"Sting stepped away from pro wrestling for several years and by all indications, he was going to retire. He felt he had a great run in him alongside his tag team partner, Darby Allin. He's had some of the most exciting and memorable matches in AEW in the last several years and Sting has accumulated an undefeated record where Sting is, in many ways, the most successful wrestler in AEW," Khan says.

"Every time he steps in the ring we try to pay tribute to his great career and how honored we are to have Sting with us. I think this will be one of the great memories we've been able to make for Sting in AEW. Sting and Darby Allin. Darby's old friends, Swerve Strickland and A.R. Fox in a coffin match, in front of the biggest paid crowd ever to watch Sting wrestle in his entire amazing career."

With a loaded roster and interest at its highest since launching the promotion, Khan has big aspirations and wants to continue hosting large-scale events in North America, Europe, and other continents as well. With matches still to be announced, All In's card is living up to the billing as one of the biggest events in wrestling history.

But despite that, the future of the All In event is unclear. When asked if we can expect it as an annual event, Khan admitted there's "a lot to consider."

"In addition to the live event, also on the media rights landscape, there are a lot of interesting things happening," Khan continues. "We're very focused on these events. Doing this for the first time to have AEW All In on August 27th, followed by AEW All Out the next weekend."

Fans can tune in live to watch All In on August 27 on traditional pay-per-view, through Bleacher Report, and internationally through FITE.



https://uproxx.com/sports/tony-khan-interview-all-in-2023/

As well as Hudson-Odoi another 'sensational' Chelsea player could end up at Fulham – journalist
Fulham and Chelsea have something of a strange rivalry.

For some fans, this is the west London derby, this is the rivalry that matters more than any other and bragging rights are there to be won or lost every time these two teams meet.

However, unlike most other rivalries of this ilk, these two clubs don't have any issues in terms of doing business with one another.

The likes of Gael Kakuta, Tomas Kalas, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Lucas Piazon have all crossed this divide in recent years, and now, we could be set to see two more players swap Stamford Bridge for Craven Cottage.

Callum Hudson-Odoi is reportedly closing in on a move to Fulham, while according to Dean Jones, speaking on The Done Deal Show, Fulham are also having a look at Armando Broja.

Broja to Fulham an option
Jones shared what he knows about the 'sensational' Chelsea star.

"I think we will get a good gauge on it on whether or not Broja will be able to speak to other clubs or not. That would be the one to make way. Right now with Nicolas Jackson you're thinking Broja is the main backup and alternate option there. West Ham have had an eye on Broja for a while and Fulham are having tentative steps around looking at the Broja perspective," Jones said.

Mitrovic replacement
This isn't surprising at all.

Fulham will soon be in the market for a new striker as Aleksandar Mitrovic closes in on a move to Al-Hilal, and it looks like Broja could be an option.

A physical striker who suits Fulham's style, Broja could be the perfect Mitrovic replacement for the Whites.

He's proven in the Premier League, and he could well be available after Chelsea's spending spree this summer.

Fulham could do much worse than replacing Mitrovic with Broja.



https://tbrfootball.com/as-well-as-hudson-odoi-another-sensational-chelsea-player-could-end-up-at-fulham-journalist/

Player strongly pushing for Fulham exit – Stance made clear, only wants one club
Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo is pushing to leave the club this summer and sign for Monaco before the end of the window.

That's according to Foot Mercato, who say the Ligue 1 club are working to make a deal happen after finalising a deal for Wilfried Singo.

They are 'still targeting' Adarabioyo having already seen an offer worth more than €10m rejected by Fulham.

That was not enough to convince those in charge at Craven Cottage to let Adarabioyo go, even though he has entered the final year of his contract and indicated he won't be signing an extension.

The defender was left frustrated by that refusal from Fulham, with FM stating that the lack of movement is beginning to 'seriously annoy the player'.

He did not participate in the opening day defeat of Everton and is still keen to move on and according to FM's information, he has again made it clear to his management that he only wants to go to Monaco.

He's also made it clear he won't be going anywhere else, although whether that is enough to convince Fulham to bend and change their stance.

An answer on that front is expected 'in the next few hours' but even if it isn't, Adarabioyo is very much a name to keep an eye on after making his stance clear.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/player-strongly-pushing-fulham-exit-stance-made-clear-wants-one-club/

Report: Spurs receive potential boost in rumoured pursuit of Tosin Adarabioyo
Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas has revealed that Monaco's latest offer for rumoured Tottenham target, Tosin Adarabioyo, has been knocked back by Fulham.

It has been widely reported recently that Ange Postecoglou is prioritising signing another central defender before the transfer window shuts on September 2 (Football Insider).

Adarabioyo, who has one year left on his contract at Craven Cottage, has been heavily linked with a move to Spurs over the last couple of months (Football London).

However, it was reported by  GiveMeSport last week that the Fulham man has dropped down Tottenham's wishlist, with Torino's Perr Shurrs alleged to have emerged as the North London club's top target.

Meanwhile, it was suggested by Foot Mercato last week that Adarabioyo is now edging closer to a move to Moncao.

Monaco's offer knocked back for Tosin Adarabioyo
However, if Thomas' latest update is to be believed, the Ligue 1 side have now failed with an approach for the 25-year-old.

The journalist revealed that Moncaco submitted an £8.5m for Adarabioyo, which the West London club have turned down.

Spurs Web Opinion
The fact that Monaco are bidding suggests that they already have a verbal agreement in place with Adarabioyo over a potential transfer.

It does appear as if Tottenham have abandoned their pursuit of the Fulham man and are now looking elsewhere to bolster their backline.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-spurs-receive-potential-boost-in-rumoured-pursuit-of-tosin-adarabioyo/

The £50m daring swoop that could see Fulham follow in Brighton's European footsteps
The Cottagers have been touted as admirers of Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun

Aleksandar Mitrovic vowed that he would never play for Fulham again. It was a promise he kept for all of 58 minutes. On Saturday afternoon, the bulky Serbian was benched by manager Marco Silva for his side's Premier League opener against Everton amid a slew of speculation about his future in west London. Less than an hour of playing time later, and he was introduced to the fray - like some brooding toffee hammer - as the Cottagers tried to puzzle out a way of cracking their hosts' resolve.

If reports are to be believed, even in spite of his Goodison Park cameo, the working relationship between Mitrovic and Fulham is not a sustainable one. The striker is understood to be a target for Saudi outfit Al-Hilal - the club who recently lured Neymar to the Middle East by jangling the keys to a 25-bedroom mansion in front of him like a property developing toddler - and the expectation is that an agreement will be reached sooner rather than later.

That, then, would leave Fulham with something of a void to fill. Already this summer, the Cottagers have signed Raul Jimenez from Wolves, but after a relatively barren turn at Molineux last season, there are question marks over whether or not he can provide the goals they need to properly build on the encouraging foundation they laid during their recent top flight return. Aside from the Mexican, Silva's only real alternatives up front - assuming Mitro does depart - are Brazilian duo Rodrigo Muniz and Carlos Vinicius; the former spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan with Middlesbrough, and the latter could only muster five goals in 34 outings across all competitions during the same spell. Evidently, a striker is needed.

Which brings us to Folarin Balogun, the wantaway Arsenal prospect who electrified French football last term, and who is said to be catching the eye of those in the boardroom at Craven Cottage. According to the Daily Mail, Fulham are considering a bid for the 22-year-old in the event(uality) of Mitrovic's exit, and even in spite of his hefty price tag. Depending on who you ask, the striker is valued at somewhere between £40 to 50 million.

Obviously, that is a lot of money, but then again, Balogun boasts a lot of potential. Last season, during a loan stint with Stade de Reims - they of Will Still fame - he netted 22 times across all competitions, and in the period since, has been linked with everyone from RB Leipzig to Inter Milan. He has also committed his future to the USMNT and is now a regular senior USA international, and there is an argument to be made for Arsenal asking for no more than is justifiable - especially when you consider the sweltering climate of the current transfer market. Manchester United, after all, have just spent £72 million on Rasmus Hojlund - a player who registered six strikes fewer than Balogun last term.

From a Fulham perspective, the Hale End academy graduate would offer not just a goal threat, but a talent who could grow in line with the club's own ambitions. You would imagine that the aim for this season, conservative as it may seem, is to consolidate a hard-won Premier League status. After that, however, who can say? Why can't Fulham follow the recent examples set by clubs like Brentford or Brighton and seek frequent top-half finishes, or European qualification, even?

If his time in France is anything to go by, then Balogun is only just getting started. You suspect that were it not for the player's own desire to seek out first team opportunities elsewhere, Arsenal would be quite happy to integrate him into their plans this season. If nothing else, their valuation speaks volumes as to just how highly he is rated by his boyhood side. Fulham, in short, could do far, far worse.

Ordinarily, a fee upwards of £40 million would feel fairly astronomical for a club like the Cottagers, but the widespread suggestion is that Al-Hilal's latest offer for Mitrovic comes in at around £46 million. Worst case scenario, Fulham might have to cough up a little extra to get a deal for Balogun over the line. If they're smart, and if they can drive Arsenal down a touch at the negotiation table, that lump sum may even cover the cost entirely.

Of course, this would be a deal with a touch of risk attached. Balogun, after all, has just 70 minutes of Premier League football to his name at the time of writing. But think of it this way, if we were talking about any other 22-year-old who had systematically tore apart one of Europe's strongest leagues last season, outscoring the likes of Lionel Messi and Neymar in the process, would there be as much trepidation about taking a punt on him? The answer, in all likelihood, is no.

Fulham, if they're serious, could sign Balogun this summer, and in doing so, make a real statement about the trajectory that they see their future taking.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/fulham/the-ps50m-daring-swoop-that-could-see-fulham-follow-in-brighton-european-footsteps-4258363

Player Makes Clear To Club He Wants Monaco And Not Tottenham Move
Tosin Adarabioyo has told Fulham that he does not want to join Tottenham Hotspur and has his heart set on a move to Monaco.

The 25-year-old defender, who managed to feature in 29 games for the Cottagers last season, has less than a year left on his current contract at Craven Cottage.

Fulham are keen to cash in on him given his situation, but Monaco have not yet offered a sum the Premier League side will accept.

The Cottagers are trying to sell the defender to Tottenham, according to French outlet Foot Mercato, but Adarabioyo has told them that he only wants to join Monaco.

It is claimed that Adarabioyo is now waiting to see if Fulham will change their stance.

Adarabioyo is now annoyed by the situation and desperate to move to Monaco.

The defender did not play in Fulham's Premier League opener away at Everton, which the Cottagers won 1-0.

Monaco have so far put €10m on the table for the defender to take him to Ligue 1.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/08/17/player-makes-clear-to-club-he-wants-monaco-and-not-tottenham-move/616081/

Fulham submit enquiry for Eric Bailly
Fulham have enquired about the availability of Eric Bailly, with Marco Silva's search for a new defender taking him to Manchester United.

According to Mail Sport, Fulham are keen on exploring a deal for Eric Bailly to add depth to their backline. The Ivory Coast international is not their first choice targe t for the position but could become an alternative before the window shuts down.

Marco Silva wants a new defender before the transfer window shuts on September 1. Central defence still seems like an area which would need some depth, as the manager appears to search for a new option. The future of Tosin Adarabioyo still seems up in the air, but whether he leaves remains the question.

Fulham have already signed Calvin Bassey from Ajax earlier in the summer. And now, Silva probably wants one more to keep his depth intact at the back. There are a few options for the Cottagers boss, including Benfica's Morato and Manchester United's Erik Bailly.

The interest in Bailly emerged last month, but Silva may look at the injury-prone star as an alternative to his priority target Morato. The Manchester United outcast, who arrived on a €38 million deal in 2016, seems to have no future at the club following a loan at Marseille and will have returned to the squad way down in the pecking order.

Fulham have remained keen on Morato since July, with reports indicating Benfica had already rejected a bid for the centre-back. He wants to join the Cottagers and could force a move through if Silva desperately wants him to join.

If the Cottagers cannot sign him, they will move for Bailly, who cost Manchester United €38 million years ago. After many injury-ravaged seasons, the valuation will have to reduce drastically, but the Red Devils could cash in on the centre-back.

His contract with Manchester United expires in 2024, but the club can extend it by another season. They could take up the option if they feel it could affect his valuations, although the chances are low. Fulham might make a move once their pursuit of Morato becomes clearer. For now, there are chances Silva will sign the Benfica star as his preferred option, but one cannot rule out an approach for 29-year-old Bailly until the window shuts.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/08/17/fulham-submit-enquiry-for-eric-bailly/

Tony Khan Reveals Why Craven Cottage Was Not Used To Host AEW All In
Tony Khan reveals why Wembley Stadium is the choice of venue for AEW All In.

When rumours of the UK show first started, many speculated that Craven Cottage would be the location of the event, as the Fulham Football Club ground is also owned by the Khan family. With multiple venues discussed prior to the announcement, the AEW president would shock the world by choosing the largest stadium in the UK to host the pay-per-view.

Wembley Stadium was a bold choice that has appeared to have paid off judging by the ticket sales, but why was the venue chosen in the first place? Speaking with Uproxx, Khan explained that he would have loved to host the inaugural European show in Craven Cottage, but for financial and logistical reasons, Wembley Stadium was a no-brainer:

    "There's two places I thought about. One is also very dear to my heart, and that's Craven Cottage. Wembley is, for a pro wrestling event, the more economical choice for many reasons. In that, you can have much more capacity for attendance since Wembley is a larger stadium by far, and also, the same wonderful charms of Craven Cottage and all the history of that magnificent venue. (Craven Cottage) poses so many challenges to loading in a pro wrestling event and it would cost millions more to produce the event at Craven Cottage than at Wembley."

Tony Khan DIsciplines MJF And Adam Cole On AEW Dynamite
In a rare on-camera segment, Khan was seen interacting with MJF and Adam Cole as the best friends took part in their latest bonding session. Tired of MJF and Cole constantly hitting Double Clotheslines on backstage personnel, the finishing manoeuvre was strictly limited to the ring.

Whilst Khan has avoided one logistical nightmare by opting for Wembley Stadium over Craven Cottage, the AEW CEO faces new challenges by running 2 pay-per-views only 7 days apart. Khan was asked about this issue but chose to not give an answer. With backstage news being the buzz of the internet just days before All In, logistics might not be Khan's only headache right now.



https://itrwrestling.com/news/tony-khan-reveals-why-craven-cottage-was-not-used-to-host-aew-all-in/

Games for the weekend 19/08
Our first home game of the season we face Brentford for a 3 o'clock kick off
Well that was a lucky win against Everton, I didn't think we played that badly however if Everton had been more clinical then the result could have been very different?
Leno was outstanding, easily MotM, what a signing he's proved to be.
I was a little surprised to see Tim Ream in the starting eleven, mainly due to him recovering from the broken arm but also because Bassey has such a good debut against Hoffenheim.

Over on the forum our stats guru Ludlow Richard pointed out...
the stats show how difficult it has been for Fulham to win away on the first game of the season in the top flight.
We have played 14 away games on the first day of the season in the top flight. WE have won just three of them, all by 1-0: Portsmouth in 2009, Sunderland in 2013 and Everton yesterday. In those 14 away games we have only scored more than 1 goal on two occasions (1965 v Blackpool: we drew; and 2001 v Man Utd: we lost). So what this goes to show is that whatever we thought of yesterday's win, it was a rare occurrence and the team deserve plaudits for the win.

It was good to see Pereira coming on for a substitute appearance, hopefully Palhinha will be available for the Brentford game.
There were photos of Mitro on crutches and with a protective boot on his left foot getting off the train at Euston, hopefully this was as a precaution? I'm still expecting him to go to Saudi, but I guess we'll have to wait and see, I do hope he doesn't leave on the last day of the window.

Brentford looked good against Spurs so I think we'll need to perform at a better level than we did against Everton.

Our record against Brentford is 4 wins, 8 losses and 3 draws.

assuming no new signings, departures or injuries my squad would be...
COYW's

Games of Interest...
Friday 18th
Forest v Sheff Utd

Saturday 19th
Fulham v Brentford
Spurs v Man Utd

Sunday 20th
West Ham v Chelsea

Monday 21st
Palace v Arsenal

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come on over to the forum and join in the conversation...
https://www.friendsoffulham.com/forum/index.php?board=36.0


http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/?p=2858

Everton make fresh £12m offer for Che Adams in bid to beat Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Fulham in race to sign Southampton forward 

    Everton have revived their bid to sign Southampton forward Che Adams
    The 27-year-old has scored two goals in three games so far this season
    Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Fulham have also shown interest

Everton have revived their bid to sign Che Adams and made an offer worth £12million to Southampton.

The Scotland international has been a target for Crystal Palace, Bournemouth and Fulham this window.

The 27-year old has scored two goals in three games so far this season.

Scotland international Adams wants a move back to the Premier League after Southampton were relegated last season.

Everton have already made four signings this window in the form of Ashley Young, Youssef Chermiti, Arnaut Danjuma and Jack Harrison.

(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2023/08/17/23/74452595-0-image-a-26_1692311771184.jpg)
Southampton forward Che Adams has scored two goals in three games so far this season

Everton Sean Dyche is keen to boost his attacking options.

Wilfried Gnonto is training alone at Leeds United's Thorp Arch as he pushes for a move to Goodison Park.

The Italy international refused to play for Leeds last week in their Carabao Cup tie with Shrewsbury Town and said he still wasn't in the right frame of mind to travel for their Championship game at Birmingham City on Saturday.

Leeds have told Gnonto they don't want to sell him despite Everton making bids in excess of £15million earlier this summer.

That has upset the 19-year old and his representatives as he wants to return to the top-flight to stay in with a chance of retaining his place in the Italy squad for the European Championships.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12418981/Everton-make-fresh-12m-offer-Che-Adams-bid-beat-Crystal-Palace-Bournemouth-Fulham-race-sign-Southampton-forward.html