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Positive direction of travel for Fulham
After a relatively calm season, Fulham can look forward to a third consecutive year in the Premier League, which will go a long way to losing their tag as a "yo-yo" club. On the previous two occasions that they had been promoted to the top flight, they had immediately dropped back to the Championship, so there have clearly been signs of progress under Marco Silva.
Things also look a little better off the pitch, considering the club's most recent accounts from the 2022/23 season, when they finished in a very creditable 10th place in their first season back in the Premier League.
In 2022/23 Fulham's pre-tax loss more than halved from £57m to £26m, as revenue shot up £110m from £72m to a club record £182m following promotion to the Premier League, though profit from player sales dropped from £12m to £9m.
Much of the revenue increase was eaten up by operating expenses rising £76m (54%) from £141m to £217m, as the club increased its budget in order to compete in the top flight.
The main driver of Fulham's revenue growth was broadcasting (79% of total income, one of the highest in the Premier League), which almost tripled, rising £94m from £51m to £145m, thanks to the far more lucrative Premier League TV deal. However, there was also good growth in the other revenue streams, especially match day, which more than doubled from £6.8m to £15.2m, while commercial increased £8.7m (62%) from £14.0m to £22.7m.
Player sales
Fulham opted to hang on to their talent, so the bottom line was only boosted by £9m profit from player sales, which was even lower than the £12m they made in the Championship. This was mainly from the sale of Fabio Carvalho to Liverpool. Fulham have not made much money from player sales, generating a profit of just £21m in the last three seasons. They made £12m in 2021/22, mainly from the sale of Frank Anguissa to Napoli, while the gain in the season before that was only £146k.
This season will be a lot better after the club record sale of Serbian striker Aleksander Mitrovic to Saudi club Al-Hilal. The fee has been widely reported in the media as £45-50m, but the accounts noted that the total profit from player sales after the year-end was only £30m.
The club has largely bought older players with Premier League experience, which helps prospects in the short-term, but is not conducive to large player trading profits in the future.
Fulham have spent £334m on player purchases in the last five years, which is around three times as much as the £110m outlay in the preceding 5-year period, so they have really ramped up their activity in the transfer market. Looking at gross spend for the last five years, Fulham only spent more than four other Premier League clubs, namely Crystal Palace, Brentford, Sheffield United and Luton Town.
Losses are nothing new for Fulham, as the last time they made a profit was way back in 2011. Since Shahid Khan bought the club in July 2013, they have posted £384m of losses, averaging £38m a year. This includes £225m in the last four years alone, when the owner twice absorbed huge losses in a bid to return to the Premier League as soon as possible. That said, Fulham's loss has now fallen two years in a row from the horrific £94m in 2020/21.
Fulham's 23,800 attendance was one of the smallest in the top flight, only above Crystal Palace, Brentford and Bournemouth.
The expanded Riverside Stand will increase capacity by around 4,000 to 29,600, creating "a unique Thameside destination with first class facilities". The club has described this as a "game changer", as it will also include new restaurants, cafés, bars, corporate hospitality and event space.
The total cost of the project has risen to £200m, with more than £160m already incurred, so significant funding from the owner will be required to complete the development.
Fulham's wage bill rose £49m (54%) from £90m to £139m, which was another club record. In fact, their wages in 2022/23 were £25m (22%) higher than the last time they were in the Premier League two years previously. To highlight the magnitude of the challenge for clubs like Fulham, it was more than £200m below the top three clubs: Manchester City £423m, Chelsea £404m and Liverpool £373m.
In the last decade virtually all of Fulham's £620m available cash has come from the owners' pockets. Most of this was spent on player purchases with £285m (net), but also a significant amount went on infrastructure (£201m) with another £80m used to cover operating losses. Khan has essentially signed a cheque for around £1.4m a week ever since he arrived, which is a great deal of money by almost anyone's standards.
In fact, in the five years up to 2023 Khan's £456m funding was the second highest in the Premier League, only surpassed by Everton. Put another way, Fulham have received more from their owner than the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City plus aspirational clubs like Aston Villa and Newcastle United.
Whether Fulham can turn a profit for the first time since 2011 is more debatable, but the direction of travel is positive. In the meantime, the club is fortunate that owner Shahid Khan continues to provide significant financial support.
https://footballeconomyv2.blogspot.com/2024/06/positive-direction-of-travel-for-fulham.html
Bayern Munich now look to Manchester United superstar to strengthen base of midfield as Joao Palhinha's alternative
Bayern Munich have identified Manchester United star Casemiro as a transfer target
Brazilian outlet Trivela has reported that Bayern Munich recently held conversations with Manchester United ace Casemiro over a possible switch this summer as part of Vincent Kompany's squad rebuild.
The Brazilian has been widely linked with leaving Old Trafford this summer after his form has been extremely poor in recent months, and in the overall picture, the expensive transfer from Real Madrid has not worked out as all parties would have liked.
Casemiro was one of the world's best defensive midfielders before joining Man United and it looked as though Bayern Munich would offer him a route to reignite his career in Europe itself amid links to Saudi Arabia.
However, the talks between the Bundesliga giants and Casemiro are unlikely to materialise with Bayern expected to progress with Joao Palhinha's signing as initially anticipated.
Casemiro's possible move to the Allianz Arena falling apart is good news for Manchester United as his only realistic destination for next season remains Saudi Arabia.
Vincent Kompany's side would not have been ready to pay the kind of money the Middle Eastern clubs can and as such, Casemiro's sale to a Saudi Pro League club will help United in various dimensions.
First and foremost, they will be able to nullify their losses on his investment sizably and secondly, the proceeds from his sale will only add to Erik ten Hag's transfer budget for the summer.
https://weallfollowunited.com/2024/06/20/bayern-munich-now-look-to-manchester-united-superstar-to-strengthen-base-of-midfield-as-joao-palhinhas-alternative/?utm_content=cmp-true
Fulham and Everton interested in former Burnley defender Lorenz Assignon
According to a report from L'Équipe, Fulham and Everton are among the clubs showing interest in Stade Rennais full-back Lorenz Assignon (23).
Assignon began last season as Rennes' starting right-back, however, Julien Stéphan's arrival as manager changed that. As a result, he departed in January, joining Burnley on a six-month loan with the option to make the deal permanent. Whilst Burnley wanted to trigger the €10m purchase option, Assignon himself didn't want to remain with the Clarets as they dropped down to the EFL Championship.
As a result, the Frenchman returns to Les Rennais – a club at which he seemingly has no future. A departure is envisaged, and there is no shortage of suitors. As per L'Équipe, Olympique de Marseille, OGC Nice, Galatasaray, Everton and Fulham are all interested in the full-back, who will be allowed to leave this summer. After a successful but short stint in England, Assignon could be set for a Premier League return.
https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2024/fulham-and-everton-interested-in-former-burnley-defender-lorenz-assignon/
Four Championship players Fulham could target
Jack Stroudley looks at players that Fulham could look to sign from the Sky Bet Championship.
The dust has now truly settled on the 2023/24 Premier League season and with the fixtures coming out all eyes now turn towards the 2024/25 campaign with transfers the key talking point. Fulham appear to be establishing themselves as a Premier League side once again with Marco Silva stating after our 4-2 win over Luton that the club cannot stand still.
Recruitment will be important this summer and while focus will be towards current Premier League/European players, I think it's important to look in the division below as the Championship has uncovered some gems in recent years for other clubs.
Gustavo Hamer
Anyone that knows me will be rolling their eyes at this first suggestion due to the amount I go on about him but I really do think Gustavo Hamer is that guy. I suggested us signing him last summer when at Coventry City but were unfortunately pipped by Sheffield United where he has continued to excel.
The 26-year-old's ability to get the ball in midfield and create chances is something that Fulham could certainly do with. The position next to Joao Palhinha is still fairly up for grabs and bringing in Gus Hamer who got ten goal contributions in that position for a very poor Sheffield United side would be a serious pick-up and help us continue to establish ourselves.
Vinicius Souza
Cameron Donaldson did an excellent job of summarising Vini Souza's game in article recently so I'll try not to regurgitate the same information but Souza is a player that Fulham should be all over. The Joao Palhinha situation remains uncertain and may rumble on for some time and Souza is a player who had an excellent first Premier League campaign (again for a struggling Sheffield United).
He's just turned 25 so would continue to grow and develop under Marco Silva and with an average of 4.22 tackles per 90 (putting him in the top 1% of midfielders) alongside 2.53 clearances (top 4%) and 1.92 blocks (top 5%) he could come at a premium, but he'd fit the Palhinha role like a glove.
Jaden Philogene
With Willian still not committing his future and Fulham probably needing to improve in wide areas, Jaden Philogene seems like a bit of a no brainer to me. Playing off the left for Hull City, Philogene picked up 18 goal contributions last season and was a joy to watch for Liam Rosenior's side and he's only 22-years-old.
Philogene averaged 4.88 progressive carries (top 7%), 2.79 successful take-ons (9%), 3.69 shots (top 3%) and 2.5 tackles (top 2%) showcasing not only his ability to get forward and create a plethora of chances but to come back defensively when needed. It's obviously a step up but I think now is the time for Philogene and I hope that Fulham are at the front of the queue.
Teden Mengi
I've spoke about Teden Mengi before as a potential Tosin replacement but with the move to Chelsea now confirmed, it feels right to go back and talk about Mengi. Marco Silva has stated that he wanted two centre backs this summer and at just 21, Mengi could come in and become a long-term solution for Fulham (even if he doesn't start regularly to begin with).
He was in the top 2% for interceptions last season and top 9% for blocks while playing for a struggling Luton Town side. This one feels like a bit of a no brainer with time on his side and a solid year of Premier League experience, Fulham could allow Mengi the scope to continue to develop into a very solid Premier League central defender.
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-06-20-four-championship-players-fulham-could-target-2/
Fixtures In Focus
Following publication of the 2024/25 Premier League fixture list this week, we take a deeper dive into Fulham's matches this coming season.
The opening night trip to Old Trafford is a throwback to our first ever Premier League game. That fixture didn't kick-off the PL season, but it was televised, as the Whites impressed against the reigning champions.
Louis Saha stunned the home crowd with a beautiful lob from Sean Davis' pass with under four minutes played, but a trademark David Beckham free-kick had us level at the break.
Saha needed even less time in the second half to restore our lead, but two goals in three minutes from United debutant Ruud van Nistelrooy meant our efforts went unrewarded.
Championship winners Leicester City provide our first home opposition – a fixture which we've lost just once in the Premier League era. We most recently defeated the Foxes 5-3 just over a year ago, a game which saw us become the first side in PL history to have two players aged 32 or older both notch a brace in the same game, thanks to Tom Cairney and Willian's doubles that afternoon.
Portman Road hasn't been as alien a ground to us as it will be to most in the top flight. Further to our two Carabao Cup wins since the turn of the decade, we also travelled to Suffolk on four occasions during our time in the Championship, winning the most recent couple.
Two home games in a row then throw up contrasting memories from last season. West Ham's trip to the Cottage was one of the highlights of 2023/24, but Newcastle's visit was one of missed opportunity, while we'll hope the subsequent away days to the City Ground and Etihad are more prosperous than last year, too.
Fulham – Aston Villa at the Cottage is next up, and fans of a certain age will remember a dramatic game back in 2005 when Lee Clark scored a stoppage time equaliser, after Edwin van der Sar had saved two Juan Pablo Angel penalties.
"The manager made it very clear that he wasn't happy with the fact he took the second penalty," Villa coach Roy Aitken said afterwards. "He thought he should have stepped aside and let someone else take it. Basically he has told him that he will not take another penalty this season."
Having been our bogey ground for so long, Goodison Park has been good to us of late. After breaking the curse with a 2-0 win in 2021, we won there three times in one calendar year in 2023, most recently in our Carabao Cup Quarter-Final penalty victory.
Two London derbies follow, as we entertain Brentford before heading South-East to Crystal Palace – a fixture we've taken five points from in our last three visits.
Three of the next four fixtures are at home – Tottenham is away – against sides we took maximum points from at the Cottage last term. Wolves was a dramatic evening at the Cottage with three penalties, Brighton one of our more comfortable afternoons, and the fact that Arsenal missed out on the title by two points makes our win over them in SW6 all the more impressive.
Liverpool away follows, a match we played well in twice last season across two competitions but narrowly lost each. Promoted Southampton travel to the Cottage for our final outing before Christmas, almost two years on from their last visit, when João Palhinha headed in a late winner on a soaking wet New Year's Eve.
It's a nice easy trip for fans on Boxing Day, as we travel across Fulham to Stamford Bridge. It's the second time our neighbours have hosted us on December 26th – the first was a hard fought 3-2 loss having battled back from two down back in 2005, before Clint Dempsey netted in a 1-1 draw six years later.
We're at home either side of the turn of the year. After seeing out 2024 against Bournemouth, Ipswich make their first Premier League appearance at Craven Cottage since 2001, when Barry Hayles and Jermaine Wright were the scorers in a 1-1 draw. The Tractor Boys were also our first opponents of 2018 – a remarkable evening which saw Ryan Sessegnon and Aboubakar Kamara score four goals between them in just eight second half minutes.
FA Cup weekend follows, but then it's two away trips in five days to grounds that we won at on our previous visits. Our 2-0 triumph at London Stadium was very recent, while a sole Aleksandar Mitrović strike and a Bernd Leno masterclass earned us a slender win at the King Power at the beginning of 2023.
We've played well against Manchester United at home in both our games under Marco Silva, but were cruelly denied any points by last gasp winners on each occasion.
Newcastle away is normally in December or January these days, so our February 1st trip up north makes a change. It's the first time the fixture has been played outside of the aforementioned months since 2017, which coincidentally is the last time we beat them. Tom Cairney hit a worldie before a 16-year-old Ryan Sessegnon grabbed a brace to secure a 3-1 win over the eventual Championship title winners at St James' Park.
Ryan Sessegnon celebrates with Tom Cairney after scoring against Newcastle
Next up is Forest at the Cottage, a fixture we bagged five in last year, before we host Palace on home turf a week later.
It's then back-to-back away matches, with Molinex followed by a trip to the Amex, a ground we've never lost at in the Premier League.
It's then Spurs at home and Arsenal away, fixtures with the North London sides which were highly prosperous last term.
A late Palhinha strike earned 10-man Fulham a point at the Emirates at the start of the season, while we later become the first team to stop Tottenham from scoring in a game under Ange Posteglou when the boys delivered arguably their performance of the campaign in a 3-0 victory.
With Liverpool at home following, that spell marks one of our tougher periods of the season, with subsequent meetings away to Bournemouth and at home to Chelsea no walks in Bishop's Park either.
That SW6 derby fixture comes exactly 19 years and one month since our first Premier League victory against them, on Saturday 19th April.
Our last two trips to St Mary's have involved relegated sides. The Whites were already down when we were beaten there three years ago, while our 2-1 win on our last visit sent Saints down.
That's followed by another away at Villa Park, before we host Everton in a fixture that has ended goalless the last two seasons.
Brentford away and Manchester City at home were two of our final three fixtures last season, and there's some symmetry this time around.
Both games are on Sundays, with the Bees match on Sunday 18th May due to the FA Cup Final the day before, before we close the campaign out against City at the Cottage a week later.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/20/fixtures-in-focus/
Fulham offer Willian new deal
Fulham have offered new terms to Willian over a contract extension as they battle to keep the Brazilian veteran at Craven Cottage.
The Sun's Andy Dillon says that Marco Silva wants to keep the former Chelsea and Arsenal winger in SW6 for at least another twelve months. The Cottagers are understood to have offered an improved deal in an attempt to ward off continued Saudi Arabian interest in Willian.
The same report suggests that Fulham are poised to reject an impending £38m bid from Bayern Munich for Joao Palhinha.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/fulham-offer-willian-new-deal-2/
Bayern 'losing patience' over Palhinha
Bayern Munich 'are losing patience' with Fulham having failed to agree a deal to sign their top transfer target in Joao Palhinha, according to reports from Germany.
Sport BILD claims that the German giants won't go beyond £38m in their attempts to sign the Portuguese midfielder, which is well below Fulham's £60m valuation. Sport BILD reports £38m is Bayern's 'absolute upper limit' – although English reporting earlier this afternoon suggested the Whites would be rejecting that offer out of hand.
Palhinha, who didn't feature in Portugal's dramatic stoppage-time win over the Czech Republic at Euro 2024 on Sunday night, is believed to be prepared to remain at Craven Cottage if Fulham's asking price is not met this summer.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/bayern-losing-patience-over-palhinha/
Fulham eye Assignon deal
Fulham are interested in signing Stade Rennais right back Lorenz Assignon, according to a report from L'Equipe.
The French sports paper suggests that the Whites, Everton, Olympique de Marseille, OGC Nice and Galatasaray are all interested in signing the 23 year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Burnley. The Clarets were keen to sign Assignon for the £8m option contained in their loan agreement, but the defender wasn't keen on dropping down to the Championship.
There is apparently no future for Assignon under Julian Stephan and he is expected to leave Stade Rennais this summer. Fulham extended Kenny Tete's contract for a further twelve months earlier this summer and have Belgian international Timothy Castagne as Marco Silva's first choice, but are known to be looking at defensive reinforcements.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/fulham-eye-assignon-deal/
Everton ahead of Fulham in Edoardo Bove chase
Everton and Bournemouth are reportedly ahead of Fulham in the race to sign 22-year-old Italian midfielder Edoardo Bove from Serie A club AS Roma.
According to a report by Graeme Bailey on HITC, Edoardo Bove is the subject of interest from Everton. The Toffees are scouring the market for a midfielder heading into the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, the 22-year-old AS Roma midfielder is also a target for Fulham, although the Cottagers are behind Everton in the race to sign him from the Serie A club.
Who is Edoardo Bove?
Edoardo Bove has established himself as one of the best young midfielders in Serie A since breaking into the first-team squad at AS Roma. A native of Rome, he spent his formative years with the Giallorossi before making his first-team debut as an 18-year-old in May 2021.
Since then, the 22-year-old has come leaps and bounds, establishing himself as a regular in the middle of the park for AS Roma. Bove turned out over 2,500 minutes of game time across 45 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with one goal and two assists.
Meanwhile, Edoardo Bove's progress at AS Roma has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe, particularly in the Premier League. The latest report mentions Everton and Fulham as his prospective suitors heading into the summer transfer window.
Everton and Fulham are pursuing several mutual targets, particularly for the midfield unit. Recent reports have linked the two Premier League clubs with many midfielders, including Lamine Camara. Edoardo Bove has emerged as the latest common midfield target for Everton and Fulham.
Premier League move on the horizon?
While Everton will look to replace the exit-bound Amadou Onana, Fulham will aim to fill the void that Joao Palhinha will leave when he inevitably joins Bayern Munich. Bove is thus a viable target for the two Premier League clubs. However, the Toffees and Bournemouth are more advanced than Fulham in the race to sign the 22-year-old AS Roma midfielder.
The report has claimed that the Serie A club will demand around £18 million to part ways with the 22-year-old Italian midfielder. That is a fair price for the highly-rated prospect. It will be interesting to see if he arrives in the Premier League in the summer transfer window after his adventure in Serie A.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/06/20/everton-ahead-of-fulham-in-edoardo-bove-chase/
Club join race for Fulham forward – Entourage believe there's a 'real chance' move will get through
Earlier this week, the Brazilian media revealed that Grêmio are interested in signing Carlos Vinícius from Fulham this summer.
The striker has just had a loan spell at Galatasaray, and with him unlikely to have a place in Marco Silva's squad, clubs have started to move.
Now it seems there should be a little competition to bring Carlos Vinícius back home, because according to journalist Jorge Nicola, Palmeiras are keen on his signing as well.
The reporter claims to have spoken to someone close to the centre-forward, who said there's a 'real chance' he can leave Fulham for them.
Nicola says he also recently had a conversation with Carlos Vinícius' agent, Flavio Ribeiro, who claimed there's indeed a 'big chance' the player will move back to Brazil soon.
The striker is valued by Transfemarkt at €4m, and has a contract with Fulham running until 2025.
When Grêmio were first reported to be interested, we said there was a good chance they'd want a loan. Now with Palmeiras also involved, it seems the chances for a permanent deal are bigger.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-join-race-fulham-forward-entourage-believe-theres-real-chance-move-will-get/
Fulham renew Trevoh Chalobah transfer interest as Chelsea demand £25m fee
Blues academy graduate could help solve a looming centre-back shortage at Craven Cottage
Fulham have revived their transfer interest in Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah.
The centre-back is one of several players who could leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chalobah has four years left on his contract but, as an academy graduate, would count as pure profit in any sale as Chelsea bid to ensure that they stay in line with Premier League profit and sustainability rules.
After missing the first six months of last season with a hamstring injury, Chalobah impressed at the end of the campaign and Fulham, who considered signing him last summer, have now renewed their interest.
While Chalobah is expected to push to stay put at Chelsea, the club's finances could mean it is out of his hands.
If he did make a switch across west London, it would represent a reverse move to that of Tosin Adarabioyo, who has joined Chelsea as a free agent from Fulham.
With Adarabioyo gone and Tim Ream nearing a move to MLS side Charlotte FC, Fulham could soon be left with just two recognised senior central defenders in Calvin Bassey and Issa Diop.
Fulham are now considering an approach for Chalobah, who had interest from Inter Milan and Bayern Munich last summer.
He is valued by Chelsea at £25million and is currently on holiday before the club's pre-season tour of the United States.
https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/chelsea-fc-transfer-news-chalobah-fulham-b1165740.html
Report: Everton & Bournemouth Lead Chase for £18m Midfielder
Everton and Bournemouth Vie for Promising Roma Midfielder
Battle Heats Up for £18m Talent
The chase for football talent never ceases in the dynamic market of the Premier League. The latest gem drawing significant attention is Edoardo Bove, a young and versatile midfielder from Roma, who has caught the eye of several top-tier English clubs. According to a report by HITC, Everton and AFC Bournemouth are currently leading the pack, with Leicester City and Fulham also showing strong interest in the 22-year-old, valued at around £18 million.
Everton's Youthful Strategy
Everton appears to be strategically investing in young talent this summer, with the club also nearing a £10 million agreement for Aston Villa's Tim Iroegbunam. The young midfielder's potential move to Goodison Park comes amid revelations that his chances of first-team football under Unai Emery at Villa are slim, especially with Ross Barkley set to return. Everton's interest in Bove signifies a clear intent to rejuvenate their squad, incorporating youth to inject vitality and resilience into their midfield setup. Both Bove and Iroegbunam could significantly enhance an ageing Everton side, which is currently reliant on veterans like Abdoulaye Doucoure and Idrissa Gana Gueye.
Bournemouth's Inside Track
On the south coast, AFC Bournemouth may have an ace up their sleeve in the form of Thiago Pinto, the club's President of Football Operations, who shares a past with Bove at Roma. This connection could prove crucial as both clubs vie for the midfielder's signature. Bove's robust playing style, combined with technical skills honed under the tutelage of Jose Mourinho at Roma, has seen him likened to Daniele De Rossi, another Giallorossi legend. Mourinho himself has praised Bove's maturity and tactical acumen, famously noting his standout performance in a Europa League match as being worthy of a seasoned professional.
Leicester and Fulham: Still in Contention
While Everton and Bournemouth might be leading, Leicester and Fulham remain keen contenders in the pursuit of Bove. The midfielder's aggressive and athletic style would offer a fresh dynamic to any Premier League midfield, possibly providing the spark both clubs are looking for as they aim to bolster their squads for the upcoming season.
The Mourinho Effect and Legacy
Bove's development under Jose Mourinho at Roma cannot be overstated. Described by Mourinho as the only player who "played with legs, body, and mind" in a crucial European encounter, Bove has evidently embodied the spirit and fight that Mourinho values. Furthermore, Roma icon Francesco Totti's emotional remarks about Bove starting in midfield highlight the profound impact and potential Bove carries into each game.
As Bove's contract extends until 2028, his commitment to Roma is clear. However, the lure of the Premier League and the opportunities it offers could be a decisive factor in his career. The endorsement by figures like Pinto, emphasizing Bove's embodiment of Roma's values and his influential role on and off the pitch, underscores the high regard in which he is held.
The summer transfer window often brings its share of surprises and last-minute twists. With clubs like Everton and Bournemouth showing a clear strategy towards building a future around young, talented players like Bove, the coming weeks could be pivotal in determining where this promising midfielder will ply his trade in the near future.
The saga of Edoardo Bove is just another chapter in the ever-evolving narrative of football transfers, blending
youth, ambition, and strategic planning. As Premier League clubs continue to scout globally for talent that can alter their fortunes, players like Bove represent not just potential on the field but also a vision for the future.
In conclusion, as Everton and Bournemouth lead the race with their strategic foresight, and Leicester and Fulham lurk close behind, the pursuit of Edoardo Bove is set to be one of the intriguing narratives of this transfer window. Whichever club secures his services will no doubt be gaining a player with not only exceptional skill and potential but also the character and mindset to match the high pressures of the Premier League.
https://eplindex.com/113208/report-everton-bournemouth-lead-chase-for-18m-midfielder.html
Fulham considering making move for Trevoh Chalobah
Fulham are considering making a move for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah in the summer transfer window, according to a report from Evening Standard.
The Cottagers have already lost Tosin Adarabioyo, who joined the Blues on a free transfer this summer. Tim Ream is also nearing a move to MLS club Charlotte FC, which will leave Fulham with only two recognised defenders – Calvin Bassey and Issa Diop.
Fulham considered signing the 24-year-old last summer and they will try their luck again to bring him to Craven Cottage.
The newspaper reported online on 20 June that Chalobah is one of the players Chelsea could sell this summer. He has progressed through the club's academy ranks, and whatever Chelsea get from him will be considered a pure profit.
He has four years left on his contract and is valued by the Blues at £25 million. Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are also interested in signing the centre-back.
Fulham have an edge over other rivals in the race for Trevoh Chalobah
Chalobah missed the opening six months with a hamstring injury last season but he made a strong impact towards the end of the campaign.
The homegrown player would love to stay at Stamford Bridge, but Chelsea will not mind selling him if the offer is right. Considering that the Blues need to comply with financial rules, they would be more than happy to let him go at the above-quoted price.
Fulham have not lodged a bid yet but they are likely to do so in the coming days. Although Man Utd and Spurs are interested in signing the centre-back, Fulham probably have an edge over others.
Chalobah wants to join a club where he will get regular football, and Fulham can offer that. At Spurs, Ange Postecoglou has Christian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Radu Dragusin as three main defenders, and it won't be easy for Chalobah to compete for a regular starting role.
Likewise, United have other targets. They have made an offer for Jarrad Branthwaite and are interested in Leny Yoro. They might have an interest in Chalobah but doubts remain whether he is at all in their top priority list.
https://sportsview.co.uk/2024/06/fulham-considering-making-move-for-trevoh-chalobah
Fulham revive Chalobah interest
Fulham have reignited their interest in Chelsea centre back Trevoh Chalobah, according to the Evening Standard.
The paper reports that the Whites are targeting the 24 year-old centre back as a potential replacement for Tosin Adarabioyo, who will move from Craven Cottage to Stamford Bridge on a free transfer next month. The Standard suggests that Chalobah could be one of a number of homegrown talents who the Blues sell on this summer to secure their financial position under the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules.
Chalobah, who has four years to run on his current Chelsea contract, is believed to be keen to stay with his boyhood club and fight for a place in Enzo Maresca's first-team having featured towards the end of the season after recovering from a hamstring problem. But Chelsea could take the matter of his hands by inviting a bidding war for the cultured centre back, who attracted interest from the likes of Inter Milan and Bayern Munich last summer.
Fulham hold a long-term interest in Chalobah that predates Marco Silva's arrival in SW6 but may baulk at matching Chelsea's £25m valuation. The defender has made 80 first-team appearances for the Blues, scoring five goals, and also spent time on loan at Ipswich Town, Huddersfield Town and Lorient.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/fulham-revive-chalobah-interest/
Fulham in transfer tussle to sign Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain
Fulham are reportedly interested in signing former Arsenal and Liverpool utility man Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain this summer.
According to a report by Sabah via Sport Witness, Fulham, Southampton, and Sheffield United are keen on signing former Arsenal and LIverpool utility man Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the summer transfer window.
The midfielder has done quite well since he moved to Besiktas. But he is reportedly keen on returning to England once again. It will be interesting to see if the Turkish outfit are ready to sanction his departure. He made 30 appearances for Besiktas last season, scoring four goals in all competitions. He could prove to be a useful acquisition for Fulham.
The Cottagers need more creativity and goals in the middle of the park, and the former Arsenal and Liverpool midfielder could be ideal for them. He is versatile enough to operate as a central attacking midfielder, a central midfielder as well as a winger. He will add creativity, goals, and drive to the side.
Fulham need a quality playmaker
Fulham need to improve their squad if they want to do well next season and finish in the top half. Signing a quality midfielder could prove to be a wise decision. The former England international is still only 30, and he is at the peak of his powers.
He could prove to be a useful acquisition for the London club if they can get the deal done. However, Fulham have also shown interest in several other midfielders, including Lamine Camara.
Meanwhile, Oxlade-Chamberlain has played for Arsenal and Liverpool in the past, and he knows the Premier League well. He should be able to settle in quickly and make an instant impact at Fulham if the transfer goes through.
The opportunity to return to his homeland will be attractive for the 30-year-old as well, and a move to Fulham will be an enticing option. The player will certainly hope that the two clubs can work out and agreement soon.
Apart from his quality and versatility, the 30-year-old midfielder could help with his winning experience as well. He has won major trophies like the Premier League title and the UEFA Champions League during his time in England, and he could prove to be an invaluable addition to the Fulham dressing room.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/06/20/fulham-in-transfer-tussle-to-sign-alex-oxlade-chamberlain/
Fulham 'renew interest' in Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah — report
Music to the ears of Pure Profit FC
It's been a quiet first month of the offseason in the Chelsea war room, with surprisingly little transfer action. Rumors obviously abound, but not too many concrete developments have occurred yet, contrary to general expectations.
One of the few bits of business that has been completed is the club agreeing terms with free agent Tosin Adarabioyo, who had run down his contract at Fulham. Ironically, Tosin's departure from our friendly neighbors has left them short of center backs for next season, and that has now apparently prompted them to "renew" their interest in Chelsea center back Trevoh Chalobah, who's said to be available for the relatively low fee of £25m.
Sign a player for free and sell them a replacement for millions? That's some 4D chess right there.
According to the Evening Standard, this is all just a "consideration" from Fulham at this point, but Chelsea are obviously willing to do business at the specified price point and Chalobah may be willing to move in order to look for consistent gametime. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have also been credited with interest, but a move to Fulham would be a lot more palatable in a tribalistic sense.
https://weaintgotnohistory.sbnation.com/chelsea-fc-transfer-rumours-news/2024/6/20/24182537/fulham-renew-interest-in-chelsea-defender-trevoh-chalobah-report
Fulham Now Value Key Star at £40m Amid Man Utd Interest
Antonee Robinson will require a bid of around £40M to leave Fulham due to Ian Maatsen's £37.5M move setting the benchmark.
Fulham value Robinson highly after consistent displays in the Premier League last season.
Despite interest from top clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea, Fulham have not yet entertained an offer for Robinson.
Antonee Robinson's future remains at Fulham for the time being despite a superb season at Craven Cottage in the Premier League under Marco Silva - though GIVEMESPORT sources have now revealed that the USA star will take a bid of around £40million to prise away from the River Thames as a result of Ian Maatsen's imminent £37.5m move to Aston Villa.
Robinson starred for Fulham upon their promotion to the top-flight in 2022, but last season saw him become an indispensible part of Silva's side with gut-busting, consistent displays that wreaked havoc upon many sides. He's been touted with the exit across the past year but Fulham could now ask for a premium for his sale.
Antonee Robinson and Ian Maatsen: Transfer Latest
The duo have both been tipped with the exit this summer
Maatsen's move to Villa burst into life on Wednesday evening when reports flooded in that the Dutchman had seen a bid accepted by Chelsea for his services from Unai Emery's men.
He almost joined Burnley last summer in a £31.5million deal but turned the Clarets down to remain and fight for his place at Chelsea, but after first-team chances became unclear, Dortmund housed Maatsen on loan last season after his sporadic handful of first-team appearances at Stamford Bridge - and they too failed to make a move despite the opportunity to activate a £35m release clause.
Robinson, meanwhile, has been linked with a move away but there hasn't been much of an update on his future just yet, with clubs thought to be keeping him on a shortlist with the premise of a potential move away.
Sources: Maatsen Fee Has Set Robinson Bar
The Dutchman's move has set a precedent for Fulham
GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed that Fulham will use Maatsen's move from west London to the west Midlands as a guider for any club that wish to make a move for Robinson this summer, with the US international featuring in many fan and pundits' Premier League Team of the Season after a strong campaign for the Cottagers last time around.
Robinson has taken interest from Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea on English shores this season with United suffering injury woes in the left-hand side of their defence, Liverpool looking for a long-term successor to Andy Robertson and Chelsea constantly revitalising their squad with incomings. Although a move to Chelsea does seem bizarre with fellow left-back Maatsen on his way out of the club, it's thought the move will be down to avoiding PSR issues.
Dortmund may also make a shock move for Robinson after missing out on Maatsen, who rose to prominence in Vincent Kompany's 101-point Burnley team that won the Championship in 2022/23.
But Fulham value Robinson at £40million, and that has been backed up with Maatsen's £37.5million move to Villa, with the Cottagers now set to use that deal as the bar for the 'going price' on young, impressive left-backs.
Fulham are not thought to be entertaining the idea of a sale for Robinson and they do not intend to sell him, but if any club makes their interest known then Fulham will ensure that they are ready to fight - just as they have done with Joao Palhinha, given that they are making Bayern work for his signing by standing strong on their asking price for the Portuguese metronome.
£40million for Robinson is a Fair Price
Plenty of left-backs are going for tens of millions in the current market
Robinson won Fulham's Player of the Season award, is a current international and has 100 Premier League appearances at the age of just 26 - with huge room for growth over the coming seasons.
We have already seen left-backs go for big sums of money in intra-Premier League deals in the past; Chelsea in particular have signed Ben Chilwell and Marc Cucurella for over £50million each, Oleksandr Zinchenko joined Arsenal from Manchester City as a £32million player despite bearing a bit-part role at the Etihad Stadium, whilst Maatsen's imminent £37.5million move and Lewis Hall's £28m transfer to Newcastle have seen Chelsea pick up big sums of money for their young stars.
https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-to-use-villa-swoop-as-marker-for-robinson-exit/
Tottenham face competition from Fulham & Man Utd for Chelsea ace Trevoh Chalobah
Tottenham are facing competition from Fulham and Manchester United for Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah.
According to the Evening Standard, Fulham have revived their interest in Chalobah as they look to replace Tosin Adarabioyo, who joined Chelsea on a free transfer this summer.
The 24-year-old has been deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge and is one of several players who could leave the club.
Chalobah still has four years left on his Chelsea contract. While the club will not force him out, they're willing to listen to offers from the Premier League and abroad.
The former England Under-21 international struggled with a lengthy hamstring injury and didn't feature in Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea team during the first half of the season.
He was in terrific form for the Blues towards the end of the season, but that has done little to convince the club to retain his services.
Despite being one of the better centre-backs on the Blues roster, they have slapped a bargain £25 million price tag on him.
Chelsea seem desperate to get Chalobah off their books, and Tottenham should be looking to capitalise on his situation.
Chalobah would be a value-for-money signing for Spurs
Chalobah didn't feature for Chelsea until February last season, but after a run of games, his enormous quality was on display.
In 13 Premier League appearances, Chalobah kept two clean sheets, averaging 1.2 tackles, 3.5 ball recoveries, and 3.8 clearances per 90 minutes.
His 90% pass accuracy suggests he will be key to Tottenham's build-up play, and his impressive 65% success rate in ground duels emphasises his strength in defending 1v1 situations.
At 24, Chalobah still has a lot of room for improvement, but he has already developed into one of the finest young defenders in the Premier League.
Snapping him up for £25m would be a bargain for Spurs, and they should be looking to steal a march on their competition in the race for his signature.
Stats from Sofascore.com
https://whiteheartlane.com/tottenham-face-competition-from-fulham-man-utd-for-chelsea-ace-trevoh-chalobah/
Fulham interest in midfielder dismissed – Player said to be out of Marco Silva's plans
Earlier today, Portuguese outlet A Bola reported Fulham's interest in Benfica midfielder Florentino Luís.
It was claimed that with João Palhinha leaving for Bayern Munich, Marco Silva wants a new name for midfield and sees the Eagles' player as a target. The story claimed that the Lisbon side would demand €30m for the transfer.
Well, it didn't take long until outlet Record showed up with their own piece, but this time denying Fulham's interest in Florentino.
The website shows up to say that the midfielder is out of the Whites' plans. As even though they need a replacement for Palhinha, the 24-year-old isn't on their list.
Florentino has been linked to several English clubs lately, and Record claims that he indeed has a market among Premier League sides, but that does not include Fulham.
Those are two major Portuguese outlets showing conflicting information on the same day, so we should soon get to know who's right.
This season, Florentino recovered his good football at Benfica, and interest from Fulham wouldn't be something crazy.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-interest-midfielder-dismissed-player-said-marco-silvas-plans/
Not sure I understand FFC interest in Assignon with both Tete and Castagne still on board?
Quote from: WindyCity on June 21, 2024, 03:35:56 PMNot sure I understand FFC interest in Assignon with both Tete and Castagne still on board?
Tete is in his final year of his contract and doesn't seem keen on extension. Could see us buying a new RB and selling Tete so we don't lose him for nothing next year.