Exclusive: Birmingham City open talks to re-sign Jay Stansfield
Birmingham City have opened talks over a permanent deal to sign Jay Stansfield from Fulham, sources have told Football Insider.
Stansfield, 21, had a successful loan spell at St Andrew's last season, and the Blues have now begun discussions over a full-time deal.
The League One outfit are prepared to offer a package worth up to £6million to get a deal over the line as their free-spending summer looks set to continue.
Fulham are in a strong negotiating position due to Stansfield's contract running until 2027, but are open to letting him leave this summer.
Birmingham City in talks over £6million Jay Stansfield transfer
Stansfield is a product of the Fulham academy, having made the move from Exeter City in 2021, but has only represented the club eight times since his debut in 2020.
He spent a season on loan at his boyhood club Exeter in 2022-23 before making the short-term move to St Andrew's in the summer of 2023.
In 47 appearances for the Blues last season, the forward bagged 13 goals and provided three assists, becoming a key part of the side despite their eventual relegation.
With Birmingham now in League One, the recruitment team is looking for a way to bring Stansfield in permanently as they look to achieve promotion immediately.
Having already landed a deal for ex-Charlton forward Alfie May, the Fulham forward is seen as the next piece of the puzzle for Chris Davies' attacking plans.
Stansfield would join new signings May, Bailey Peacock-Farrell, Ryan Allsop, Alex Cochrane, Emil Hansson, Willum Thor Willumsson and Christoph Klarer as the club's busy summer continues.
A £6million deal would represent a League One record, with the Blues having already broken the previous record twice this summer in deals for Willumsson and Klarer.
https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-birmingham-city-open-talks-to-re-sign-jay-stansfield/
Why do Fulham want to make Emile Smith Rowe their record signing?
Rumours abound that Fulham are looking to sign Arsenal's attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, with a first bid reportedly turned down by the Gunners, I'm asking the question: Why would Fulham want to potentially make the England international their record signing?
Versatility
Marco Silva is a man who loves players in his squad capable of playing in multiple positions. Timothy Castagne, Alex Iwobi, Bobby De Cordova-Reid and others have succeeded under Silva while being utilised in different areas of the pitch. Smith Rowe is another of those, with experience on both wings, in the 10 role, and in central midfield already in his career. With the loss of Willian and BDR plus the potential departure of Andreas, Smith Rowe could quickly plug gaps in the starting XI.
Regardless of that versatility, getting the best out of Smith Rowe would still be a key job for Silva. Smith Rowe's productivity in the final third has been noticeably better when playing either in behind the striker or coming in off the left. More than 70% of Smith Rowe's career goal contributions have come from occupying those areas of the pitch. Granted, the last two seasons have been a struggle injury-wise for Smith Rowe, but when he has played for Arsenal, Arteta has often played him in a dual eight role with Martin Odegaard, leading to zero goals and just four assists in 25 Premier League games in that time for Smith Rowe, proof if it was needed that he is most effective in more advanced areas.
Marco's magic
While it looks like it's Fulham that need to convince Smith Rowe and Arsenal that a deal can be done this summer that suits all parties, Smith Rowe must see what Marco Silva has done to get the best out of his players over the last couple of seasons and want a piece of that. Willian, Tim Ream, Antonee Robinson, Bernd Leno, Aleksandar Mitrovic and so on have all played some of the best football of their career under our Portuguese head coach, many of whom were either seen as outcasts or 'past it' when Silva first took them under his wing.
That's not to suggest Smith Rowe is an outcast. He has obvious talent, has international caps for England and is still only 23 years old. However, his career has stagnated. Injuries have plagued his ability to break into an Arsenal side that under Arteta have gone from strength to strength and a fresh start elsewhere may be exactly what the young man needs to take his career to the next level and bring him back into international contention. If Marco Silva were to get the best out of Smith Rowe like he has with so many others, Fulham would have one of the league's most exciting attacking talents on their books with his best years ahead of him.
An England international
It's rare that Fulham find themselves with England internationals on their books, especially in the 21st century, but Smith Rowe does already have senior caps under his belt, including a goal in a win over San Marino. Were Smith Rowe to impress enough to get himself back into England contention, it would not only justify the decision by both club and player to make the move work, but would also increase his value massively as he enters the prime of his career.
It is also worth mentioning the importance of Smith Rowe's homegrown status. Like every Premier League club, Fulham have a homegrown quote to attend to which has been affected by their outgoings so far this summer. Rodak came through our academy and has moved on, as has Tosin who had represented England at multiple youth levels. Bringing homegrown talents into the squad that aren't just 39-year-old third-choice goalkeepers is an important aspect of squad building for every Premier League club and Smith Rowe would be a superb addition in that regard.
Big game experience
One of the big differences for Fulham from the 2022/23 season to the season just gone was a greater ability to win games against the bigger sides in the Premier League. Home wins against Arsenal and Tottenham and a famous last-minute winner at Old Trafford were huge standout moments last year, as well as a deep run in the Carabao Cup in which we were narrowly beaten by Liverpool in the semi-finals. Bringing in players who are used to winning big games like those, such as Willian in the past two years, is another big step towards making Fulham an established and competitive Premier League club.
Despite Smith Rowe's young age and fitness struggles recently, he has still played in a number of big occasions. As mentioned, he has played multiple times for his country already which is always a big moment for any player. On top of that, Smith Rowe has experience in different leagues, playing in the Championship for Huddersfield and the Bundesliga for RB Leipzig. Most of his big game experience has of course come at Arsenal, including trophy wins at Wembley and appearances in multiple European competitions. Add to that experience of winning big games for Arsenal in the Premier League, Smith Rowe could instantly add valuable experience to our dressing room.
Connections
Maybe this might be a bit out there, but we know that quite often players are more willing to join a new club if their pals are there to help them settle in. Look at how easy it was for Iwobi to settle in at Fulham with Bassey by his side for example. As previously mentioned, Smith Rowe has played with Arsenal, England and Leipzig, and as you would imagine, that means he's had some very talented teammates. With many outgoings so far and nobody in to replace them as of the time of writing, who could Smith Rowe potentially convince to come with him to the Cottage? Time to be massively speculative...
Reiss Nelson at Arsenal is another exciting attacking talent who has found himself as an outsider at the Emirates who has interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Fulham according to some reports. Also capable of playing on either wing, seeing Nelson and Smith Rowe on either side of Muniz could be a lot of fun. The departure of Palhinha leaves gaps in the middle of the park... maybe Emile could convince former Leipzig teammate and Mali international Amadou Haidara to join him in London to help to fill that gap in our midfield. Or maybe after his three England caps, Smith Rowe is pally enough with Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham and could... okay, maybe not.
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-07-22-why-do-fulham-want-to-make-emile-smith-rowe-their-record-signing/
Birmingham City open talks to re-sign Premier League striker permanently
Birmingham City have opened talks with Fulham over a potential permanent deal for Jay Stansfield, as per Football Insider.
Birmingham City are looking to take League One by storm this season.
The Blues have had an extremely busy, but positive summer transfer window so far.
They were relegated last season on the final day and it capped off a season to forget for the club. At one stage they were top six contenders, but a managerial change at the wrong time led to them falling into the third tier.
Stansfield, 21, played 43 league games for Birmingham City last season, scoring 12 and assisting two on loan from Fulham.
The English striker spent the year before in League One with Exeter City, scoring nine and assisting seven in 36.
He is yet to get a real chance in Fulham's first team, and now reports claim Birmingham City have opened talks to sign him on a permanent deal this summer.
It goes on to say whilst Fulham are in a strong position to negotiate given his contract runs until 2027, they would be willing to let him depart this summer and a deal is a possibility.
An ambitious move
Chris Davies' side have spent big this summer and they are going all in on promotion at the first time of asking.
The Blues will undoubtedly be favourites for the third tier title, but many clubs before them have tried a similar tactic and struggled, so it isn't a forgone conclusion nor does spending money guarantee success.
However, a permanent deal for the youngster would be an incredibly strong signing and it would once again show how serious Birmingham City are taking the league this season.
Looking ahead
Davies is in his first season as a manager, but he has been dealt a strong hand and it will be interesting to see whether he can manage the dynamics of the dressing room and get this squad firing at its best.
The Blues will be aiming for the top spot, so there will be pressure on Davies and his staff to do the business. However, sometimes too many signings means it takes sometime for the squad to gel together and with the season starting in a few weeks there isn't much time of pre-season left.
Birmingham City still have another five weeks or so to add to their squad, but as things stand they have a team more than capable of making an immediate Championship return and they are certainly one of the teams to watch in the Football League this season.
https://the72.co.uk/2024/07/22/birmingham-city-open-stansfield-talks/
Fulham preparing 'official offer' for young forward – Following him for considerable time
According to a claim in the Turkish media, Fulham are showing an interest in Besiktas youngster Mustafa Hekimoğlu.
The 17-year-old forward has impressed in Besiktas' youth system which has brought him to the attention of the Premier League club.
Aksam today claim Fulham are closely watching Hekimoğlu and could soon be knocking on the door to sign the youngster. The Turkish media outlet say the English club have been following the attacker for a considerable time and they are preparing an 'official offer'.
The 17-year-old forward has impressed in Besiktas' youth system which has brought him to the attention of the Premier League club.
Aksam today claim Fulham are closely watching Hekimoğlu and could soon be knocking on the door to sign the youngster. The Turkish media outlet say the English club have been following the attacker for a considerable time and they are preparing an 'official offer'.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-preparing-official-offer-young-forward-following-considerable-time/
'Medical booked' - Ex Crystal Palace, Fulham and Everton £12m target on verge of transfer breakthrough
The former Crystal Palace and Fulham transfer target is set to make a move to the continent despite Southampton's promotion.
Former Crystal Palace and Fulham transfer target Che Adams is on the verge of completing a transfer to Serie A side Torino following the expiry of his Southampton contract.
The 28-year-old will undergo a medical in Italy on Monday before the deal is finalised. Adams is available on a free transfer after refusing to sign an extension at St Mary's Stadium following the Saints' promotion, despite being offered a 'brilliant contract' by the club.
Adams joined Southampton from Birmingham City in 2019 and made 191 appearances for the side. He made 46 appearances in all competitions under Martin last season, scoring 17 goals, and also played in all three of Scotland's Euro 2024 matches in Germany this summer.
The talisman was the centre of a transfer storm 12 months ago following Southampton's relegation to the Championship. This year, Wolves were the principal Premier League side credited with transfer interest, after it had been reported that Crystal Palace, Fulham, Bournemouth and Everton were battling to complete a deal last summer.
The Daily Mail had reported that the Toffees offered £12 million for Adams last year in a bid to bit their rivals to a deal, but Southampton were not interested in selling the striker.
It had also been reported that Crystal Palace were willing to double the Scotland international's wages to bring him to South London ahead of the 2023/24 campaign. Roy Hodgson was reportedly a fan of the player thanks to his work rate and link-up play.
Journalist Dean Jones told GIVEMESPORT at the time: "The talk is he's going to double his wages if he makes the move and that sounds quite dramatic, and it is really, considering he is only on about £30k-a-week right now at Southampton.
"So it's not that big a deal to give him £60k-a-week. Southampton don't really want to sell him. They've got intent of their own this season. Only if they get a replacement through the door do I think this will become more feasible."
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/crystal-palace/medical-booked-ex-crystal-palace-fulham-and-everton-ps12m-target-on-verge-of-transfer-breakthrough-4711461
Fulham reject Birmingham bid for Stansfield
Fulham have rejected a bid for Birmingham for striker Jay Stansfield.
The 21 year-old scored thirteen goals in his loan spell at St. Andrew's last season and was voted the club's player of the season despite being unable to prevent Blues from dropping into League One. Birmingham have offered a structured deal that could be worth up to £6m for Stansfield, but Fulham turned down the offer – and have also rebuffed loan approaches from several Championship clubs – as head coach Marco Silva sees the England under-21 international as part of his first team squad.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-reject-birmingham-bid-for-stansfield/
"Money Talks" – Journalist Offers Update On £6 Million Birmingham City Transfer
An agreement to bring Jay Stansfield back to Birmingham City is not close, with the Blues hoping to secure a permanent deal, according to journalist Darren Witcoop.
Rumours had started to circulate over the weekend that the League One newcomers had reignited their interest. This followed news that a host of Championship clubs were keen on the striker, who scored 13 goals in all competitions for Birmingham last season.
Parent club Fulham have made no secret how highly they rate the 21-year-old. Manager Marco Silva confirmed in May that Stansfield would remain at Craven Cottage next season after successful loan spells in League One and the Championship:
"He's going to be back with us", Silva told The Standard. "Everything we planned, apart from the collective goal of Birmingham which was not what we wanted, was a box (ticked).
"He played the season before in League One (with Exeter City), and to be able to give a step forward in the Championship and be an important piece in the attack-line and score important goals (was pleasing). Jay achieved all the important things.
"Now is the moment for him to come back and be one of the players in our attacking line for next season."
Football Insider broke the news this morning that Birmingham had entered into talks with Fulham over a potential £6 million deal. This was confirmed by Witcoop shortly after.
With Premier League football seemingly on the horizon for the England under-21 international, a drop back down to League One does seem a bit nonsensical. However, when asked about how likely a deal is, the journalist stated that it isn't something the player wanted to do, but 'money talks'.
A number of Championship clubs are also said to be in the running. The forward has previously been linked with Sunderland, who are said to be in the market for a striker. Queens Park Rangers also expressed an interest last summer prior to his move to Birmingham.
Writer's View
Birmingham are absolutely desperate to blow the rest of the competition away in League One. They are really showing their financial clout, having already spent over £10 million this summer.
Signing Stansfield would be a real signal of intent and would surely be the final piece of the jigsaw for manager Chris Davies. Convincing the player to give up an opportunity of Premier League football for the third tier would be a staggering achievement. Although he's only 21, you'd really have to question his ambition if he does move back to St Andrew's on a permanent basis.
https://therealefl.co.uk/2024/07/22/money-talks-journalist-offers-update-on-6-million-birmingham-city-transfer/
Everton make 'enquiry' about former Leeds United star also linked with Fulham
Everton have reportedly enquired about signing former Leeds United star Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.
Over two years have passed since Phillips was prised from his boyhood club in a deal reported to be worth £45m. He had been a crucial figure for Leeds, both in the Championship and in the Premier League.
However, his meteoric rise was slowed up on his arrival in Manchester. Opportunities proved limited in Pep Guardiola's star-studded squad and he was loaned out to West Ham United earlier this year.
It was hoped the temporary switch would breathe life into his career but continued struggles with form denied Phillips the chance to resurrect his reputation. The 28-year-old is now back at Manchester City and working in Guardiola's pre-season pack.
According to TEAMtalk, Everton have enquired about the possibility of taking the England international to Goodison Park. He has also been linked with Fulham in recent weeks.
The Toffees are thought to favour a loan with an option to buy, although Manchester City are reportedly hesitant about another loan if there is now obligation to buy.
Phillips himself is understood to be keen for game time and open to the idea of playing under Dyche on Merseyside. A move to Everton would reunite him with his former Leeds teammate Jack Harrison.
https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/everton-make-enquiry-about-former-leeds-united-star-also-linked-with-fulham-4711799
Jay Stansfield should delay Premier League dream to drive Birmingham City project
Birmingham City have been linked with a move to bring Jay Stansfield back on a permanent transfer - it's ambitious, but he has a strong connection
(https://i2-prod.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/article27602259.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_JS309038188.jpg)
Jay Stansfield scored a stunning winning goal on his Birmingham City debut
On the face of it, the idea of Birmingham City bringing Jay Stansfield back to the club following relegation to League One would appear entirely fanciful. And yet. And yet...
Stansfield didn't just strike a chord while on loan last year - he played an entire romantic symphony. At a time when players who spend time at clubs on loan can often be accused of being disinterested and detached from their surroundings, knowing that the club's fate won't directly impact them, it speaks volumes that Stansfield's spell can be reflected on as the polar opposite.
In tears at the end of the season as he addressed the fans, having collected every single award going, it was clear Stansfield felt genuine pain and regret that Blues had suffered relegation. Nobody can apportion blame to the striker, who in his first season in the Championship netted a dozen goals and worked tirelessly despite managerial inconsistencies.
Stansfield bears attributes Blues supporters value. Firstly, you must work hard, that's a given. Stansfield, under John Eustace, under Wayne Rooney, under Tony Mowbray and under Gary Rowett, did so - in a variety of positions across the front-line, too. This isn't a hardened, experienced Championship player, either - Stansfield was just 20 when he joined.
It's almost certain that Blues would have returned for Stansfield this summer had they maintained their Championship status, despite Marco Silva's comments outlining that he intended to integrate him into his Premier League squad. Here we are, though, at the end of July, a little over a fortnight out from their League One campaign commencing, and whispers of a move to bring Stansfield back have surfaced.
Blues couldn't have been any more serious about their seasonal intentions, in the way they've gone about their transfer business, if they'd tried. They've signed two Championship goalkeepers to compete with one another. They've signed this division's reigning golden boot winner. They've broken the League One transfer record twice in the space of 24 hours towards the end of last week. They're so far from concluding their business, too.
In Krystian Bielik, Blues have convinced perhaps their most important player to remain - not only to remain, but agree an extended stay. Others, namely Paik Seung-ho, will hopefully follow suit in staying loyal.
Even though there'll be more business to conduct, more holes in the squad for Davies and Craig Gardner to plug, Stansfield would surely be the juiciest of cherries atop the icing on the cake, the clearest message yet that Blues don't intend to be trifled with under Knighthead and that they truly are recruiting for the Championship as much as they are League One.
It wouldn't exactly be straightforward, of course; Stansfield might feel as though he deserves a crack at the top flight having proven himself in the second tier. Why shouldn't he? Under a quality coach in Silva, in the environment of a stable Premier League club, Stansfield could thrive. Fulham, armed with their Joao Palhinha sale money, are eager to add proven talent though.
Championship teams will like the idea of luring Stansfield back to the second tier after his Blues exploits, but targets and new recruits for Blues are having to look past their current league status. Knighthead mean business and, bar the Wayne Rooney debacle, haven't really put a foot wrong - for the football side of things or where the wider club is concerned.
You also of course have the existing affinity between Stansfield and this club, which can count for a lot. Blues are willing to spend, possess players and staff Stansfield is familiar with and has befriended and hope that their League One season will be a speed bump in the longer journey.
If they were to come calling and strike a deal with Stansfield - who at 21 has his entire career ahead of him - the forward should think long and hard about delaying his Premier League aspirations and consider fronting this ambitious and talented squad which is being moulded by Knighthead's project.
Stansfield stands on the brink of a Premier League career, yet if he is patient and has faith in the Chris Davies project, he also stands on the brink of becoming a Birmingham City hero - and that lasts forever.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/jay-stansfield-should-delay-premier-29588446
Spurs join Chelsea and Aston Villa in race for 'outstanding' £35m Premier League playmaker
The Brazil international is a transfer target for several Premier League clubs this summer.
Tottenham Hotspur are believed to have joined Chelsea and Aston Villa in the race for Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira this summer.
That's according to Brazilian outlet Globo with the suggestion being that Spurs' turn to the Cottagers man could come as they give up on any hopes of bringing Crystal Palace man Eberechi Eze to North London. It had been believed that Spurs would offer the £60 million demanded by the Eagles but Manchester City could now be frontrunners as they look to find a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne - the Belgian is linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.
Ange Postecoglou's side will face a battle for Pereira. Not only is the former Manchester United a key part of Marco Silva's Fulham set-up, but he is supposedly a target for Chelsea and Aston Villa too.
Fulham paid £10 million to sign the player, who is a childhood Arsenal fan, from the Red Devils permanently in 2022 and Pereira put pen to paper on a four-year contract. That deal still has another two years to run, which would put the west London club in a strong position for negotiations.
The Cottagers have already played hardball when selling Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich this summer, rejecting multiple bids before accepting a £47.4 million offer. Having already lost an important midfield man, Fulham could be reluctant to see Pereira leave - although have been linked with serious transfer interest in Arsenal man Emile Smith-Rowe, who could be an ideal replacement.
Globo adds that Pereira has in fact reached an agreement with Silva to leave Fulham. The player and manager are known to be very close and often praise one another. Silva hailed the playmaker as 'outstanding' shortly after signing him while in April Pereira said: "I have a great relationship with him. He's always put a lot of confidence in me.
"This season has been a special season for me with a lot of ups and downs, but I came back from an injury. He's always kept believing me and that's what's important. It's a lot of hard work. He's always been speaking with me about arriving more in the box and get opportunities to score. I've been working a lot with him, with Boa and with everyone, today it's finally paid off and I'm being happy."
A £35 million is touted for any possible transfer, with Chelsea supposedly readying a bid of that amount for the Brazil international, who is viewed as a potential for Conor Gallagher should the England international move to Spurs.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/spurs/spurs-join-chelsea-and-aston-villa-in-race-for-outstanding-ps35m-premier-league-playmaker-4712138
Fulham now considering bid for 'outstanding' £30m Leeds United player
Leeds United are facing a nervous few weeks over a few of their players with Fulham now among the clubs considering a bid for one of their top stars.
The Whites have had a good summer so far and have made a number of good signings, while only losing Archie Gray so far for big money.
The likes of Willy Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville, and Georgi Rutter are all still at Elland Road, with the season just a few weeks away from starting.
Of course, the likelihood of Leeds hanging onto all those players has been seen as slim ever since they failed to win promotion last season.
And after West Ham apparently made a bid for Summerville earlier on today, it now appears Fulham are in the mix to sign him as well.
Fulham considering bid for Leeds winger Crysencio Summerville
According to a report from Sky Sports, Summerville is a man in-demand and after confirming the West Ham news, they also note that Fulham are keen.
The Cottagers are looking to add to their squad and will see Summerville as a player who has a point to prove back in the Premier League.
The 'outstanding' winger had a fine campaign with Leeds last season but didn't deliver in the playoff final when they needed him most.
Summerville has been linked with a move to Liverpool for some time as well but with things quiet on Anfield, that now seems unlikely.
Leeds previously quoted Aston Villa £30m for Summerville and after selling Archie Gray for £40m, are under no pressure to sell right now.
Still, with interest from a number of teams coming along, it will be interesting to see how Summerville reacts.
The winger has spoken of his desire to play at the highest level in the past and should Fulham come knocking, he could well be asking to depart.
https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-now-considering-bid-for-outstanding-30m-leeds-united-player/
West Ham and Fulham target Leeds star
West Ham, along with fellow Premier League side Fulham, are showing an interest in Leeds attacker Crysencio Summerville, reports Sky Sports.
The London clubs are the latest to be linked with a move for the Dutch winger, after the likes of Chelsea, Liverpool and Roma.
Summerville was named Championship Player of the Season last term after a stunning campaign for Leeds, who finished third.
The 22-year-old netted 20 goals and provided nine assists to earn a WhoScored rating of 7.65, that better than any other player in the division.
Summerville is now into the final two years of his Leeds contract, but initial discussions over a move to West Ham or Fulham have highlighted a 'big gap' in valuations.
The Premier League clubs would need Leeds' asking price to be reduced in order to pursue a deal at this stage.
https://www.whoscored.com/News/rrNneloG30-Vz7mFufd41w/Show/West-Ham-and-Fulham-target-Leeds-star
'Very expensive' - West Ham bid for 'outstanding' Leeds United star threatened by Fulham
The Championship winger turned heads as he dominated in the second tier last season and now has Premier League suitors.
West Ham have launched a bid to sign Leeds United forward and last season's Championship Player of the Year, Crysencio Summerville.
Any deal for the highly-rated 22-year-old would represent a major coup for Julen Lopetegui as he prepares for his debut season in charge at The London Stadium. The Dutch youngster blew away the second tier last season as he plundered 19 goals and notched nine assists with Leeds United narrowly missing out on promotion.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano broke the news of official Hammers interest on Monday. Taking to social media platform X, he wrote: "West Ham have submitted initial proposal to Leeds United for Crysencio Summerville. Talks took place also on player side, but still not close, considered very expensive.
"AS Roma have also included Summerville in their list but only in case Soulé deal doesn't happen."
West Ham have already strengthened at the back with the £40 million signing of Max Kilman from Wolves, the centre-back arriving in London to be reunited with Lopetegui. Luis Guilherme has also come through the doors for around £25 million but the young Brazilian is perhaps more of an investment for the future at just 18 years old.
Summerville is the kind of player who could compete for a place in the starting XI immediately and would add an option for Lopetegui as question marks remain over the future of Lucas Paqueta. Star men Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus have also been linked with big-money moves away but both seem likely to stay at West Ham.
Any transfer attempt to land Summerville could be rivalled by Fulham. Just hours after confirmed West Ham interest emerged, Sky Sports reported that the Cottagers are showing 'initial interest' in the Leeds United man.
Any negotiations could become stuck on a transfer fee with Sky adding that there is a 'big gap in valuations' between the Premier League clubs and Leeds United with the player still having two years on his contract at Elland Road.
Summerville was linked with an exit from Yorkshire following relegation last season but stayed with the club and proved his importance. Speaking about the player earlier this year, Leeds United boss Daniel Farke said: "He is playing an outstanding season in terms of performances, end product and also his willingness to work for the team, to be there and deliver on a daily basis even in training, otherwise you can't deliver consistency in this league.
"You have to be on it each and every day on the training pitch but also with good habits in nutrition, sleep and recovery. We don't have to speak about the potential of Cree, the sky is the limit with his potential but to show consistency this is crucial. It's no coincidence he has delivered many end products."
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/west-ham/very-expensive-west-ham-launch-bid-for-4712335
Transfer gossip: Leeds United and Hull City show 'interest' in £5m-rated Sunderland-linked striker
The Sunderland-linked striker is attracting interest from clubs in the Championship and League One
Leeds United and Hull City are also interested in Sunderland-linked striker Jay Stansfield.
The Fulham man spent last season on loan at Birmingham City and impressed during challenging circumstances as The Blues were relegated from the Championship to League One.
Despite their relegation, Birmingham City are thought to be keen on Stansfield's return to St Andrews and have held discussions with Fulham regarding a potential return. However, the Premier League club are said to rate the striker at over £5million.
Alfonso Leocadio, a football journalist with just under 40,000 followers on X, has also stated that Leeds United are "long-term admirers" whilst Hull City also holds an interest in the player. Stansfield was heavily linked with a move to Sunderland last season before joining Birmingham City on loan.
Stansfield - an England youth international - would go on to net 13 goals in all competitions despite The Blues' relegation to League One.
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/transfer-gossip-leeds-united-and-hull-city-show-interest-in-ps5m-rated-sunderland-linked-striker-4712198
Fulham join Chelsea, Liverpool and Brighton in 21-goal ace pursuit
Latest Fulham news and rumours as they prepare for the start of the new season
Fulham are gearing up for the start of the new Premier League season.
Marco Silva remains in charge at Craven Cottage and has the chance to bring in some new players over the coming weeks. Here is a look at some of the latest news and rumours coming out of the club...
Winger on radar
Fulham are interested in a move for Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville. According to Sky Sports, they are keen on the Championship star along with West Ham.
Summerville, 22, is a key player for the Whites but they face a battle to keep hold of him after they lost the play-off final to Southampton at Wembley.
He has been playing his football at Elland Road since 2020 and scored 21 goals in all competitions last term.
Chelsea, Brighton and Hove Albion and Liverpool are also said to be admirers of the player, as per a report by GiveMeSport.
Journalist Ben Jacobs has said: "There is interest in him. We know Brighton have taken a look. We know that he could still be on Chelsea's radar. Newcastle are also interested in the player.
"So it will still be a big surprise if between now and the end of the window, given how many clubs want players in his position, it will be a surprise if somebody doesn't make a formal offer for Summerville."
Sky Sports' report claims Fulham are also still keen on Fluminense midfielder Andre, Manchester United's Scott McTominay and Arsenal's Emile Smith-Rowe, although it remains to be seen whether they can land the trio in this window.
Youngster wanted
According to Turkish news outlet Aksam, Fulham are preparing an 'official offer' for Besiktas attacker Mustafa Hekimoğlu.
The 17-year-old has risen up through the academy of the Turkish Super Lig giants and is under contract until 2027.
He could be seen by Silva as one for the future and someone who would be capable of breaking into their senior team down the line.
Hekimoğlu has made seven appearances for Besiktas to date, six of which have come in the league.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-join-chelsea-liverpool-and-brighton-in-21-goal-ace-pursuit-4712519
Fulham told to pay as much as €30m for defender – Whites request another meeting
According to a claim in the Turkish media, Fulham are still showing interest in Fenerbahce defender Jayden Oosterwolde.
The Dutchman has been linked with a move to the Premier League in recent weeks and along with Fulham, West Ham United, Brentford, Ipswich Town and Nottingham Forest have all been tracking the central defender.
Takvim reports on Fulham's pursuit of the Fenerbahce player and they state the Premier League may have to pay as much as €30m to sign him this summer.
It's claimed Fener's sporting director Mario Branco has informed interested clubs they will not accept any bids lower than this.
However, it seems this hasn't deterred Fulham and they have requested another meeting with the Super Lig club. Napoli are said to be in the running for Oosterwolde and also want to enter into more talks.
The Turkish media outlet say it's not known whether the two clubs will match this new valuation. In reality it's doubtful, and it's also doubtful they'd need to.
He made 39 appearances for Fenerbahce last season, scoring two goals. The 23-year-old is contracted to the Yellow Canaries until June 2027.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-told-theyll-pay-e30m-defender-whites-requested-another-meeting/
Fulham considering Mustafa Hekimoglu swoop
Fulham will reportedly look to sign 17-year-old Turkish attacking sensation Mustafa Hekimoglu from Besiktas JK in the summer transfer window.
According to a report by Turkish outlet Aksam, Mustafa Hekimoglu is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are already interested in the teenage striker's compatriot and Besiktas teammate Semih Kilicsoy. They are now formulating an offer to sign the 17-year-old attacking sensation from the Turkish club in the summer transfer window.
Who is Mustafa Hekimoglu?
Mustafa Hekimoglu is the latest highly-rated prospect to rise in prominence in Turkiye. The country is experiencing the rise of several promising prodigies like Arda Guler, Semih Kilicsoy, and Kenan Yildiz. Hekimoglu has joined those teenagers in an elite company, with the country's future in international football seemingly bright.
The 17-year-old is a native of Istanbul and has spent most of his formative years with Besiktas, joining the famous club in 2017. Since then, he has rapidly progressed through the ranks before making his first-team bow midway through the 2023/24 season. Hekimoglu has turned out eight times thus far for Besiktas but is yet to get off the mark.
Nevertheless, Mustafa Hekimoglu's stock in the market is high, with several well-known clubs across Europe setting their sights on him. A move to the Premier League might be on the cards, with Fulham keen on signing the Turkish attacking sensation in the summer transfer window.
London calling?
Fulham's interest in Mustafa Hekimoglu is understandable. The Cottagers have been scouring the market for a striker heading into the summer transfer window as they are keen on filling the gaping hole in the offensive department created by the departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic last year.
While Rodrigo Muniz stepped up, Raul Jimenez blew hot and cold throughout the 2023/24 season. So, several strikers, including Semih Kilicsoy, have emerged on Fulham's radar, with Kilicsoy's compatriot and Besiktas teammate also a target. The latest update has revealed that the Cottagers are preparing a bid to sign the 17-year-old attacking prospect.
It is unclear how much Besiktas will demand to part ways with the Turkish youth international or if the Turkish giants are even open to parting ways with him. However, it will be interesting to see if Fulham's opening bid does the trick.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/07/22/fulham-considering-mustafa-hekimoglu-swoop/
Fulham Tipped To Bid Again For Crystal Palace Target
Fulham are expected to return with an improved offer for Crystal Palace target Emile Smith Rowe, who has travelled to the United States with Arsenal for their pre-season tour, according to Sky Sports News.
The 23-year-old is set to seek a move away from his childhood club in pursuit of regular game time which is unlikely to be possible at the Emirates.
He has multiple clubs on his heels with offers already being sent to the Gunners, who have so far stuck with their valuation.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has shown interest in Smith Rowe as he looks to make progress from last season.
They have one more club in the form of Fulham rivalling them for the 23-year-old's signature.
In fact, the Cottagers have already taken the first step in the direction of signing Smith Rowe, tabling an official bid which the Gunners rejected.
The expectation though is that Marco Silva's side will return with an improved bid for the player.
It now remains to be seen how much the Cottagers have to offer to convince Arsenal to sell.
Smith Rowe will likely be wanting clarity on his future as quickly as possible.
https://insidefutbol.com/2024/07/22/fulham-tipped-to-bid-again-for-crystal-palace-target/653042/