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Newcastle eye move for 28-year-old Premier League midielder from London club
Newcastle United are set to be busy in the transfer market as they aim to add depth to their squad.
The Magpies suffered an injury crisis in 2023-24 that derailed their season.
Their participation in the Champions League increased the number of matches they played last season and the injuries they suffered in all areas of the pitch have increased the demand for a bigger squad at St. James' Park.
In order to address their issues in the midfield, they are targeting a move for Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira, according to Football Insider.
With three goals and seven assists in 34 Premier League starts last season, the Brazilian international was one of Marco Silva's most important players.
The 28-year-old's performance at the club level was so good that in March, he received his first call-up to the national team since 2018.
If Newcastle move ahead with their interest in the midfielder, he could line up alongside his compatriot Bruno Guimaraes for the Magpies next season.
Pereira's contract with Fulham expires in the summer of 2026, and he has been linked to a move away from Craven Cottage recently.
The report mentions that the player is open to a move away from the club and Newcastle could provide the new adventure he wants right now.
Newcastle United need a new midfielder this summer
The Magpies would particularly move for the player if one of their midfielders leave the club this summer, with Sean Longstaff linked to newly promoted Leicester City.
The Fulham midfielder is currently away on international duty with Brazil at the Copa America.
An impressive showing in the competition can fast track his move away from Fulham and Newcastle would be ready to grab the opportunity to sign him.
He would add creativity, physical presence and passing quality to the Newcastle United midfield and Howe would love to have a hardworking player like him in the team.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/06/22/newcastle-move-midielder-brazilian/
Southampton Linked With Move For Fulham Midfielder
Latest reports suggest that Saints are interested in signing a midfielder from Fulham, sceptics will groan and say not another ex player returning to St Mary's, but it isn't Harrison Reed that is the centre of attention, so they can rest easy.
According to southamptonfcnews the man in question is Bobby De Cordova-Reid who has not signed a new contract at Fulham and is now a free agent.
Last season he played 33 times in the Premier League for the cottagers, although only 17 of them were in the starting line up, with the other 16 coming on as a substitute, primarily used out wide on either flank, he scored 6 goals and added another 2 assists.
Overall in 5 seasons at Craven Cottage he played 159 League games, with 101 of them coming in the Premier League, he also had a season with Cardiff in the top flight adding another 27 games.
Add to that around 200 games in the Championship for not only Fulham & Cardiff but also Bristol City and he could be a good addition as Saints build their squad for next season.
So although he turned 31 in February, he could still cut it at Premier League level and could fit the bill at St Mary's giving a balance of experience with De Cordoba-REid & Ryan Fraser and potential with the likes of Sam Edozie.
Some Saints supporters have not been too impressed with the players linked with Saints so far, but it should be remembered that building a squad is about balance, it is about getting in players that are low cost but with experience and also youngsters and finally some players at the top of their game.
All this has to be done without falling foul of financial fair play rules and also with one eye on the fact that if we are relegated we do not want to repeat mistakes of the past and find ourselves lumbered with players who we have paid large transfer fees for and are lumbered with their wages and can do nothing other than send them out on loan.
https://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/southampton/news/62575/
Journalist reveals update on whether Leeds United will sign Fulham attacker
Leeds United won't sign Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who is likely to stay in the Premier League.
That's according to Graeme Bailey, who would also be surprised if Callum O'Hare joins.
The Whites could have benefitted from recruiting both players.
Earlier this month, TEAMtalk reported that Leeds United were interested in securing a move for Fulham attacker Bobby De Cordova-Reid.
They weren't the only team in the mix for him though, with Everton also believed to be interested in securing an agreement for the player, even with the club potentially needing a takeover deal to materialise before they can start getting busy in the transfer market.
It has been revealed by the Cottagers that they have entered discussions to potentially tie the Jamaican down to a new contract in the English capital, but TEAMtalk believes he has turned down the offer of a two-year contract.
With the player potentially set to leave Craven Cottage, that could give the Whites the opportunity to swoop for him, but they will face a considerable amount of competition for his signature with Southampton now thought to be interested in the player.
Following the Saints' promotion back to the Premier League, at Leeds' expense, they could have an advantage over Daniel Farke's side in the race.
The winger could be a very useful player to have at Elland Road though, with the Whites not having that many wing options at their disposal right now.
Crysencio Summerville and Willy Gnonto are two options, but both of them could potentially secure an exit from Elland Road before the summer transfer window closes.
Jaidon Anthony, meanwhile, has returned to AFC Bournemouth and Jack Harrison looks set to secure another loan switch to Goodison Park, which will leave the club short of options out wide.
Leeds United won't be signing Bobby De Cordova-Reid
With Reid yet to put pen to paper on a new deal, that may have given Leeds fans hope that he would make the move to Elland Road.
But journalist Graeme Bailey has seemingly ruled out this potential summer move.
He told Leeds United News: "Callum O'Hare is not one I've heard massively in the last few months so I would be surprised, to be honest. But he's a good player on a free.
"Bobby Reid will be staying in the Premier League."
Leeds United could have benefitted from signing Callum O'Hare and Bobby De Cordova-Reid
Reid did fairly well last season and has a fairly impressive record for the Cottagers.
With this in mind, it would be no surprise if he stays in the top flight, either with his current team or another side.
That's a shame for Leeds, who could have benefitted from having him at their disposal, knowing that Summerville could potentially be on his way out of Elland Road this summer.
O'Hare, meanwhile, could be an excellent option to have in a central advanced midfield role, with the Whites not having a huge number of options in this area.
However, he may have to settle for a place on the pitch with Georginio Rutter also available as an advanced midfield option.
With this in mind, it would be a bit of a surprise if he makes the switch to Elland Road, knowing that he's likely to start at his current club if he remains there.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/update-whether-leeds-united-will-sign-fulham-bobby-decordova-reid/
Fulham turn down €45m transfer offer – Negotiations ongoing for summer deal
Bayern Munich have reportedly improved their offer for Fulham star João Palhinha.
According to Sky Deutschland journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Bundesliga side are now putting €45m on the table.
Fulham, however, have reportedly turned down the bid, and the clubs still struggle to find an agreement.
This isn't the end, with Plettenberg making it clear that the door 'is not yet closed' and the negotiations are 'ongoing'. However, Bayern Munich are already said to be exploring other options, to at least make sure they won't spend the summer without signing a big reinforcement for midfield.
Palhinha, meanwhile, is still said to be very keen on the transfer. It's now said he 'wants the move' and 'hopes for an agreement' between the clubs.
This time, it isn't said how much Fulham want to let him go. The Portugal international is currently valued by Transfermarkt at €55m, and it would be no surprise if the Whites demand even more than that. The problem is that Bayern seem to be slowly reaching their limit.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-turn-e45m-transfer-offer-negotiations-ongoing-summer-deal/
Report: Bayern Munich still negotiating with Fulham for João Palhinha
Will this be another big deal for Bayern Munich?
The seemingly never-ending saga between Bayern Munich and Fulham FC for João Palhinha seems to still be bustling per Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg:
News João #Palhinha | FC Bayern and Fulham are moving towards each other. Negotiations are ongoing as always reported. However, there is not yet a total agreement!
Details:
▫️Bayern currently offer €43-45m all-in
▫️A verbal agreement is in place. Palhinha can sign a contract until 2028!
More steps to go but Bayern and Palhinha still optimistic to get the deal done and sealed soon.
Later, Plettenberg added additional context:
FC Bayern have improved their offer for João #Palhinha again, but in the last 48 hours, there has still been no agreement with FC Fulham!
Bayern offer around €45m all-in now. Fulham want more.
The door is not yet closed. Palhinha wants the move and hopes for an agreement. However, as reported in our show, Bayern is also exploring other options to secure themselves!
Saga continues. Negotiations ongoing.
@kerry_hau | @SkySportDE
Will this deal cross the finish line?
https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2024/6/22/24181756/report-bayern-munich-still-negotiating-with-fulham-joao-palhinha-transfer-rumors-kane-kimmich-olise
Toure: Reports Fulham interested in record-breaking Atalanta striker
Premier League outfit Fulham are reportedly interested in exploring a move for Atalanta striker El-Bilal Toure, who became the club's most expensive signing of all time when he arrived from Almeria last summer.
The Mali international switched LaLiga for Serie A in the summer of 2023, costing Atalanta a sum of around €30m.
However, he then suffered a serious injury to his hamstring almost immediately after his signing and subsequently missed the first 23 Serie A matches of the 2023-24 campaign.
Toure did manage to net on his league debut for Atalanta, coming off the bench in an eventual 4-1 victory over Genoa in February. He also made a consistent series of appearances, largely from the bench, from April onwards, in both the league and the Europa League.
Reported Premier League interest in Toure
According to reports from l'Equipe and TMW, Fulham are interested in striking a deal with Atalanta for Toure.
The West Londoners are said to be prepared to take the striker on loan with an option to buy, however, Atalanta are not willing to let their record signing leave under those circumstances.
https://football-italia.net/reports-fulham-interested-in-toure-atalanta/
Newcastle United eyeing Andreas Pereira swoop
Newcastle United are reportedly keeping close tabs on Fulham star Andreas Pereira, who wants to embark on a new adventure.
Premier League side Newcastle United have set their sights on signing Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira this summer. Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider's Inside Track podcast via Football Insider, senior correspondent Pete O'Rourke revealed that Pereira is among Newcastle's targets in the current transfer window.
Pereira's Resurgence at Craven Cottage
The Brazil international is currently under contract with Fulham until 2026, with the club holding an option to extend for a further year. Pereira, who joined the Cottagers from Manchester United in 2022, appears open to a move away from Fulham in pursuit of higher honours.
Newcastle United's interest in Pereira comes amidst potential midfield departures at St. James' Park. The Magpies could entertain bids for Sean Longstaff from Leicester City. Should Longstaff leave, Eddie Howe would be particularly keen to bring in Pereira to bolster the midfield. Newcastle's recruitment staff are working tirelessly to identify and secure incoming players during this transfer window.
Pereira has enjoyed a resurgence in his career since his time at Manchester United, where he struggled to secure major silverware. His successful loan spell in Brazil and his subsequent return to the national team have increased his profile.
Last season, he was a key player for Fulham, contributing 10 goal contributions in the Premier League. The 28-year-old also scored his first goal for Brazil earlier this month and is currently participating in the Copa America, where a strong performance could further elevate his market value, currently estimated at around £17m (€20m).
The Appeal of St. James' Park
Newcastle United see Pereira as a valuable addition to their squad, especially as they aim to compete for trophies. Howe and his team are eager to convince Pereira that a move to St. James' Park would provide him with the platform to achieve his ambitions. Pereira's versatility and experience would make him a significant asset for Newcastle, who are looking to strengthen their squad depth and quality.
Pursuing Andreas Pereira is a smart move for Newcastle United. His blend of Premier League experience and international pedigree could bring a new dimension to the Magpies' midfield. Furthermore, his demonstrated ability to contribute offensively aligns with Newcastle's ambitions to climb higher in the league standings and compete for titles.
While securing his signature might be challenging, it could prove to be a pivotal acquisition for Newcastle, enhancing their competitiveness and depth. More so, the Brazilian will also welcome the opportunity at another shot at the big time. Given his time with Manchester United, he will be pumped to make the most of a second go, this time on Tyneside.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/06/22/newcastle-united-eyeing-andreas-pereira-swoop/
Report: Fulham are set to enter the race for centre-back linked with Spurs
The Standard claim that Fulham have set their sights on Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah, who is reportedly also on Tottenham's wishlist.
It has been well documented that Ange Postecoglou wants to strengthen his backline this summer and Chalobah is one of a whole host of centre-backs mooted as targets for Spurs over recent months.
Earlier in the summer, it was suggested that the Blues would cash in on the 24-year-old as they needed funds to ensure they do not fall foul of PSR (The Times).
Several outlets have reported recently that Tottenham are expected to push ahead with a move for the 24-year-old as Ange Postecoglou seeks to bolster his options at the back (The Telegraph).
Fulham are keen on Trevoh Chalobah
The Standard have now said that Fulham are also set to enter the race for the centre-back and are considering an approach for the England international.
The report adds that even though Chalobah would prefer to stay at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea are expected to sell him for around £25m due to their financial situation.
The publication does not make any mention of Spurs but adds that Inter Milan and Bayern Munich had also previously explored a move for the Blues academy graduate.
Spurs Web Opinion
Chalobah would tick almost every box for Tottenham and Ange Postecoglou, given that he is homegrown, quick, versatile and experienced in the Premier League.
However, I do not see the 24-year-old agreeing to the move unless Ange guarantees him game time.
https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-fulham-are-set-to-enter-the-race-for-centre-back-linked-with-spurs/
Man Utd could land Shaw alternative by signing "one of the best LBs"
Manchester United's 2023/24 campaign was something of a mixed bag of results for the Red Devils. Despite winning a trophy, they struggled in the league and the Champions League and it almost cost Erik ten Hag his job.
However, after much deliberation, the United board decided to keep him at the club, as reported by David Ornstein.
In the Premier League, the Red Devils came 8th in the table, on 60 points, although they were some way outside of the top four, eight points behind Aston Villa to be exact.
However, according to Understat's expected points table, they massively overperformed. The Understat metric had them in 14th on just 44xPTS.
In the Champions League, it was a poor return for United, crashing out at the group stage and conceding the most goals by a Premier League side in one group stage of the tournament, as per Opta Joe. Their defence of the Carabao Cup also ended in the fourth round, thanks to a defeat at Old Trafford against Newcastle United, the side they beat in the final the previous season.
However, they did win the FA Cup, beating Manchester City 2-1 in the final, thanks to goals from academy graduate duo Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo. It was the second trophy in as many seasons for Ten Hag.
Now, as the new season draws near, rumours have begun to intensify linking United to several players who could enhance the quality of their squad, including one player United are thought to have had a long-term interest in.
Man Utd target Premier League left-back
The player in question here is Fulham and United States international Antonee Robinson. The 26-year-old has been superb for Fulham over the past season, and it has led to fresh links with some of Europe's biggest clubs.
According to a report from Will Lancaster and Dean Jones of GiveMeSport, the American 'has taken interest' from the Red Devils, as they look to strengthen at left-back. That follows injury-riddled seasons for both of United's left-backs; Tyrell Malacia, who has not played a minute, and Luke Shaw.
However, United are not the only side who are interested in signing Robinson this summer. Rivals Liverpool are in the market for a new left-back, with the American one option, and London club Chelsea are also thought to be of interest, as they start life under Enzo Maresca.
The report explains that Fulham are using Ian Maatsen's move from Chelsea to Aston Villa as a guideline when it comes to a fee for their left-back. The Dutchman is switching to Villa Park for a fee of around £37.5m. The Cottagers are expected to ask for around £40m in order to sell Robinson this summer.
Why Robinson would be a good signing
The 26-year-old American international was a mainstay for Fulham this season in the Premier League. He featured 37 times in the Premier League, playing 90 minutes in 32 of those games, and missing only one match with a slight muscle injury.
He also registered six assists for Fulham, the most of his career in a single league campaign. That tally for Fulham was bettered only by Andreas Pereira, who created seven goals, as per SofaScore. As football analyst Ben Mattinson put it, Robinson "is one of the best LBs" yet to be signed by a top club.
He was very close to a move to one of Europe's biggest clubs, AC Milan. The Italian giants were keen on signing Robinson back in 2020, during the January transfer window. The fee was agreed with his then-club Wigan Athletic, which was £6m, although it could have risen to £10m. However, the deal collapsed after Robinson was found to have an irregularity in his heart rhythm, which was found during his medical.
One of the most outstanding aspects of the 26-year-old's game is his defensive ability. Not only does he rank highly amongst players in the Premier League, but he is also an outstanding defender when comparing him to the rest of the players in Europe's big five leagues. He reads the game superbly and does not back away from challenges, such is reflected in his stats.
Should United sign Robinson, they would be bringing in a direct alternative to Shaw. Sadly, the 28-year-old missed 34 games with two separate injuries last season, hence their thought process behind signing a new left-back. Whilst the Fulham man is not quite as good technically as Shaw, he is more than able to hold his own.
According to FBRef, Robinson averaged 3.55 progressive passes per 90 minutes, compared to Shaw's 4.93 per 90 in the 2022/23 season. The American actually averages more passes into the penalty box than Shaw did two seasons ago, with 1.27 compared to the Englishman's 0.99 per 90. Their key passing stats are also close, with the Fulham man averaging 0.91 compared to Shaw's 1.20 in 2022/23.
Where Robinson does excel over United's number 23 is when it comes to progressive carrying. He averages 2.73 progressive carries and 1.93 carries into the final third per 90. Comparatively, Shaw averaged 1.87 progressive carries and 1.55 carries into the final third during the 2022/23 season. Robinson is a wonderful ball carrier and uses his physicality to help ride tackles and a sharp burst of pace to get away from defenders.
In signing the American, United would be adding a different profile to Shaw to their squad. That is to say, he is a proficient ball carrier and statistically one of the best defenders in Europe, whereas Shaw is technically brilliant and a wonderful passer.
With that in mind, it is easy to see why Robinson would be a great addition to United's squad. For a fee of just £40m, he could be a superb option for United, adding excellent depth and being able to rotate often with Shaw to ensure the England international does not get too burnt out, thus increasing the risk of an injury.
This is why ten Hag must now swoop to sign the USMNT star, who is set to compete in the Copa America, before the end of the summer window.
https://www.footballfancast.com/man-utd-robinson-could-be-dream-shaw-alternative/
Copa América 2024: USA must set tempo vs. Bolivia - Tim Ream
DALLAS -- United States men's national team defender Tim Ream said his team must set the tempo early in Sunday's Copa América opener against Bolívia.
"We have to come out with an intensity, with a desire to impose ourselves on the game and make sure that we're the ones that are doing the right things and creating the feel and the intensity of the games," Ream told reporters Thursday at the Cotton Bowl. "It's going to be important for us to do that from the first minute. Obviously, we don't want to have anything happen like [against] Jamaica, where you're scrambling for the rest of the game."
That Jamaica game was the Concacaf Nations League semifinal in March. The USMNT conceded in the first minute and equalized in second-half stoppage time before scoring twice in extra time to advance to the final, which the Americans won.
Sunday marks the beginning of the USMNT's Copa América campaign on home soil, the team's biggest test ahead of a co-hosted 2026 World Cup. The USMNT is the favorite against a Bolivia team ranked 84th in the world, the worst among all South American teams.
Bolivia, however, is under new management as of last year with the appointment of coach Antônio Carlos Zago, a former Copa América winner with Brazil as a player in 1999. The USMNT expects a more aggressive Bolivia team at Copa América based on changes Zago has made.
"They have a few talented players on the ball that if they get the space to turn in the pockets and come at us, it could be trouble," USMNT goalkeeper Matt Turner told reporters Friday. "They like to shoot from distance, put balls into the box, and not for nothing, but their region is difficult. They're going up against really, really good teams all the time.
"So, for us, it's going to be a challenging game. It's a game for us to understand what this tournament is really all about and how much it means to all these South American countries as well. So I think we got a taste of that in the friendlies, but now that the lights are really on, it's important for us to put our foot down and put out a good performance."
Ream also expects a higher-pressing Bolivia team but says the USMNT will be ready if it encounters a more conservative opponent sitting in a lower block.
"They've changed their style a little bit in terms of the way they press, and we're prepared for that," Ream said. "We're prepared for them to, more than anything, press higher up the pitch, because that has been the change that they've made. But again, you don't know until you get into the game and read what is happening."
Bolivia enters Copa América on a run of three straight losses in preparation matches against Colombia, Ecuador and Mexico. The U.S., meanwhile, bounced back from a 5-1 loss to Colombia this month by drawing with Brazil 1-1 on June 12.
The USMNT and Bolivia last played in 2018, when the Americans won 3-0. An 18-year-old Josh Sargent scored in his USMNT debut that day, and fellow 18-year-old Tim Weah also scored his first goal in his second appearance. Both players are part of the USMNT's Copa América roster.
Ream is the oldest player ever named to a USMNT Copa América roster at 36. This will be Ream's first Copa América alongside a young squad that largely has not experienced the tournament. Only Christian Pulisic and goalkeeper Ethan Horvath were on the roster for the USMNT's Copa América Centenario squad in 2016.
Playing South American opponents in a competitive setting -- including Uruguay in the group stage -- is an experience the USMNT doesn't often get.
"It's a great opportunity for us," Ream said. "It's a great opportunity to test ourselves, to play against the best in South America, and a good chance for us to see how far we've come in the past three to four years."
https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/40408768/copa-america-2024-usa-set-tempo-vs-bolivia-tim-ream
Palhinha helps Portugal reach second round
Joao Palhinha helped Portugal reach the second round of the European Championships this afternoon as Roberto Martinez's side comfortably beat Turkey 3-0 in Dortmund.
The Fulham midfielder came into the side as one of a number changes after the Portuguese had to come from behind to secure a stoppage-time win over Czech Republic in their first Group F fixture last weekend and assumed his usual role in the engine room. Palhinha took an early knock after a hefty challenge and was booked on the stroke of half time before being replaced by Ruben Neves.
Manchester City's Bernado Silva opened the scoring before a dreadful defensive mix-up saw Samet Akaydin double Portugal's lead by passing the ball beyond his own goalkeeper. Bruno Fernandes made it three before the hour mark to ensure Portugal booked their place in the last sixteen.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/palhinha-helps-portugal-reach-second-round/
Castagne's Belgium shocked by Slovakia
Timothy Castagne's Belgium suffered the first shock of Euro 2024 – as they were stunned by a battling Slovakian side in Frankfurt.
The Slovaks took the lead in the seventh minute after a mistake from Manchester City's Jeremy Doku allowed Ivan Schranz to fire Slovakia into a shock early lead. Romelu Lukaku then had two second half goals disallowed by VAR as Slovakia's stubborn defence held firm to secure a surprise three points.
Belgium will try and get their first points on the board against Romania in Cologne in their second game on Sunday evening.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/castagnes-belgium-shocked-by-slovakia/
Ream demands USA set tempo in Copa opener
Fulham defender Tim Ream has urged the United States to set the tempo in tonight's Copa America opener against Bolivia.
Previewing the game in Dallas, Ream told reporters:
"We have to come out with an intensity, with a desire to impose ourselves on the game and make sure that we're the ones that are doing the right things and creating the feel and the intensity of the games. It's going to be important for us to do that from the first minute. Obviously, we don't want to have anything happen like Jamaica, where you're scrambling for the rest of the game.
They've changed their style a little bit in terms of the way they press, and we're prepared for that. We're prepared for them to, more than anything, press higher up the pitch, because that has been the change that they've made. But again, you don't know until you get into the game and read what is happening."
The Fulham veteran, who was recalled to the national time ahead of the Qatar World Cup on account of his consistent Craven Cottage displays, is relishing the opportunity to play in the prestigious South American tournament, with the USA involved for the first time in eight years.
"It's a great opportunity for us. It's a great opportunity to test ourselves, to play against the best in South America, and a good chance for us to see how far we've come in the past three to four years."
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/ream-demands-usa-set-tempo-in-copa-opener/
Castagne helps Belgium to vital win
Fulham full back TImothy Castagne played a crucial role as Belgium kept their hopes of qualifying for the last sixteen of the European Championships alive with a 2-0 win over Romania in Cologne this evening.
Belgium, who were stunned by Slovakia in their opening fixture five days ago, made a dream start when Youri Tielemans fired them in front from a clever piece of centre forward play by Romelu Lukaku inside the first two minutes. Lukaku then had a goal disallowed before Kevin de Bruyne put the contest beyond the Romanians with a brave finish in the final ten minutes.
Castagne, who was switched from right back to the opposite side of the Belgian back four in the final quarter of hour after a tactical change, produced two brilliant bits of last-ditch defending to deny the Romanians a route back into the contest. Belgium's final game of the group stage sees them take on Ukraine in Stuttgart on Wednesday.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/castagne-helps-belgium-to-vital-win/
USMNT's Antonee Robinson: 'I would love to send a message. We're a team that should be respected'
ntonee Robinson has come a long way in the 4½ years since his failed move to AC Milan.
For a time, that was the only talking point people would discuss about him. It was a line regularly trotted out in broadcast commentary, lamenting how he nearly joined the Italian giants, seven-time champions of Europe, from "lowly" Wigan Athletic, which was then in England's second tier and are now in its third.
The transfer fell through after the detection of an irregular heart rhythm during his medical and he was only spared an investigative procedure due to the impact of the COVID-19 lockdown in the United Kingdom. As Robinson explained to The Athletic in 2021, while football was postponed for those three months he stopped the caffeine shots he had been drinking before matches. The problem went away.
"I'm not paying too much attention now that the issue has actually been identified," Robinson tells The Athletic. "I know that, going forward, if I was to ever move to another club, that I can at least say, 'Look, this is the issue I've had, this is the truth from the doctors and specialists, it's fine.'
"It's not been too much of a scare anymore. I still don't drink coffee or have caffeine shots or anything like that. I don't have caffeinated drinks. But other than that, I pretty much eat the same things. I have a fairly healthy diet, but I still snack a lot. Naturally, I have a really high metabolism – and I chase a 2-year-old around all day, so I burn off everything I eat pretty well."
He's talking about his daughter, Atlas. Robinson's second child, Ocean, was born this month. On the field, he has also come of age.
The whole Milan affair could have left a sense of regret but at Fulham, the opposite has been true. This past season for the USMNT international was described by his Fulham head coach Marco Silva as his "best" yet.
The Athletic chose him as our Fulham player of the season and in the first part of this interview with him, Robinson discussed his development on the field in detail, pointing to the strengths he has honed and weaknesses he has been ironing out, with the help of coach Silva. His determination to keep progressing was clear.
Aside from the support of his manager, he ultimately put a lot of his improvements down to maturity. "A lot has improved, but mainly it is just a bit more experience, maturity and feeling comfortable in the league," he says.
On international duty with the United States, this is probably a more pronounced sentiment. He now has 41 caps and holds a more senior position in the group. "It's quite strange because, at Fulham, we don't have the youngest squad," he said. "So I'm one of the youngest players in the team. Then I go to the U.S., and I'm one of the oldest players. I get to experience both sides of the coin.
"I really love playing for my country – and I have been in this group for six years now – especially as I've seen a lot of the lads who started with me develop and go on to do amazing things, like Weston (McKennie) and Tim Weah, who won the Coppa Italia (with Juventus). They were with me in my first-ever camp.
"Watching all of us develop and become these established players in top leagues and with the national team has been an amazing journey. I'm relishing every minute I get to play for them. I know it's going to come to an end eventually, but I'm hoping that's a long, long time away."
The journey Robinson has been on with USMNT covers a complete reset after the failure to qualify for the 2018 World Cup and then a rebuild with an eye on the future. That future is now, as the U.S. enters what may be an important moment in the country's soccer history.
If successful, the game in the U.S. could take a step to the next level. This goes beyond just Lionel Messi joining MLS last season. It is at international level where soccer will take center stage. There is the men's World Cup in the States in 2026, being co-hosted with Canada and Mexico, and first there is this summer's Copa America, also on U.S. turf.
Robinson has been part of the development cycle that has been geared to peaking at those two tournaments. Does that bring pressure? "There is a little bit, yeah," he said. "A lot of the lads who came into the team at a similar time as I did, it was a real rebuild period. They were calling in a lot of young guys who they thought would have a chance in the future. So there was a lot of pressure on us, especially going into the World Cup.
"Nearly everyone in the squad is playing in a European league now, rather than MLS. And it's a very, very talented squad. You look at the likes of Christian Pulisic and Gio Reyna, who are incredible talents. Then Weston, who is an unbelievable player. There's a lot of hype around that from the American side. With that just comes the added pressure that we want to be competing against the best teams in the world and people see that there's no reason we can't."
Robinson believes in the potential of this group of players. "What better opportunity than the World Cup in the States, on home soil?" he asked. "And this Copa America is going to be a World Cup warm-up. It's the biggest competition that we can play in, besides the World Cup. It's like the Euros for the European countries, it's that big. It's a very major competition.
(Copa America is the South American equivalent of the Euros, but with that federation's 10 countries often joined by several guest sides to make the tournament bigger – in this case, six teams from North and Central America and the Caribbean).
"So I would love for us to be able to leave our mark on that and, really send a message to the world that we're a team that should be respected, and that we can go on and do even more amazing things."
It will not be easy. USMNT face Panama, Uruguay and Bolivia in the group phase; then if it can navigate that hurdle, the knockouts pose more daunting opponents. Brazil and Argentina are, of course, the heavyweights. As much as there is excitement about the quality within the group, expectations can run away from themselves and move beyond what is realistic. Robinson is keenly aware of that, but also sees a pathway for the USMNT to follow.
"There's definitely a little bit of needing to manage expectations," he says. "If you look at us, it would be foolish to say that we are the best team in the world, because we know we're not, we're not there yet. You look at how some teams have performed and it's being able to find the ability to beat a team that's better than you.
"A great example would be Morocco in the World Cup, and how amazing they were, beating some of the best teams. No one would say, on paper, that they were one of the best teams at the World Cup, but they found a way to win all those games. That's something we need to be able to do.
"When we go to the Copa America, we're only going to be able to win it if we can get past Uruguay, if we can get past Colombia, if we can get past Brazil, if we can get past Argentina. So it might not be that we feel the team is better than them, but we have to find a way collectively to be able to dig in. Even if we're not the best performer in that game, we have to still find a way to win.
"I'll take (facing) Argentina going into the final, them having 90% possession and 30 shots on goal, if it means we win 1-0. I don't care. We want to win the trophy."
It is that drive that has carried Robinson forward so far with Fulham.
It may help his country, too.
https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2024/jun/22/usmnts-antonee-robinson-i-would-love-to-send-a-mes/
Fulham transfer news: Cottagers 'lining' up move for Serie A striker
Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Atalanta BC forward El Bilal Toure this summer.
Marco Silva's side are still looking to replace Aleksandr Mitrovic after he left Craven Cottage for the Saudi Pro League last summer.
Fulham began the 2023-24 campaign with Raul Jimenez as their main striker before he lost his place in the side to Rodrigo Muniz.
The Brazilian proved to be something of a revelation, registering nine goals in 26 Premier League appearances to finish the season as Fulham's top scorer.
Muniz and Jimenez are set to make up Fulham's centre-forward options for next season, but the Cottagers will no longer be able to call upon Armando Broja, who has returned to Chelsea following the end of his loan deal.
Fulham considering Bilal Toure move
Carlos Vinicius is also likely to be moved on after spending the second half of last season on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray.
Fulham's firepower will be bolstered by the return of Jay Stansfield following his loan stint with Birmingham, but Silva will still want to bring in a new striker to compete for that number nine spot.
According to L'Equipe, via Tutto Mercato Web, Fulham are showing an interest in signing Atalanta marksman Bilal Toure.
The report claims that the Premier League club are looking to sign Bilal Toure on loan with an option to buy, but it appears that Atalanta are reluctant to discuss such a proposal.
Bilal Toure spent two-and-a-half years with Reims in France before joining Spanish side Almeria in the summer of 2022.
The Mali international scored seven goals in 21 La Liga appearances to help Almeria secure survival in the 2022-23 campaign.
The striker's performances in Andalusia ultimately earned him a move to Atalanta, who signed him last summer in a reported €30m (£25.5m) deal.
Unfortunately for Bilal Toure, he missed the first four to five months of the 2023-24 season due to a hamstring issue.
Bilal Toure struggled to force his way into the Atalanta side when he eventually returned to action, settling for just three starts in 17 appearances.
The 22-year-old registered four goal contributions and still finished the season with a Europa League winners' medal.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-considering-move-for-serie-a-forward_546543.html?newsnow
Newcastle United could hinder Tottenham hopes of landing PL-proven James Maddison backup
Newcastle United join Tottenham Hotspur in the race for Andreas Pereira
Newcastle United are eyeing Brazilian midfielder Andreas Pereira from Fulham, a potential target for Tottenham Hotspur. The Premier League-experienced player is currently on national duty at Copa America.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has included Pereira's name on the target list for the club in the upcoming transfer window. The Brazilian midfielder, a product of the Manchester United academy, spent eight years at Old Trafford.
During his time with the Red Devils, Pereira went on loan to clubs such as Granada, Valencia, Lazio, and Flamengo. His performance notably improved during his stint with Flamengo under then-manager Dorival Junior, who is now the Brazil national team coach.
The 28-year-old Andreas Pereira joined Fulham in 2022 from Manchester United and has shined during his two-year journey with the Cottagers. The Brazilian international contributed three goals and seven assists across all competitions in the last campaign for the club. Pereira has a contract with Fulham until 2026, but he has been linked with multiple Premier League clubs this summer.
Ange Postecoglou has shown interest in Pereira, as he needs a backup option in the midfield for the upcoming season. Spurs star midfielder James Maddison, who was fabulous under Postecoglou in the first half of the last campaign, struggled to regain his form after an injury in November. The England international was also left out of the England national squad for Euro 2024 by Gareth Southgate.
The Aussie coach must find a backup option for Maddison this summer. Spurs also need to bring in additional midfielders through summer transfers to strengthen their squad. If Maddison regains his form, Postecoglou could potentially build a dynamic playmaking combo with the English and Brazilian midfielders.
Securing a player like Andreas Pereira would provide valuable depth and versatility to the Tottenham midfield. Pereira's ability to contribute both goals and assists makes him an ideal candidate to support Maddison and offer different tactical options. This combination of talents could enhance Spurs' creative capabilities, allowing them to be more unpredictable and effective in breaking down opposition defences.
https://tothelaneandback.com/2024/06/23/newcastle-united-join-tottenham-hotspur-in-the-race-for-andreas-pereira/