Birmingham City, Jay Stansfield news should strike fear into League One: ViewBirmingham City are determined to have a squad that is capable of competing for promotion back to the Championship.The Blues are preparing for their 2024/25 season in League One, and to do so, the club has been very active in the transfer market.
Chris Davies' side have already made seven new additions in this transfer window, and it appears as though they are not stopping there, with Jay Stansfield now seemingly their next target.
Birmingham City open talks to sign Jay Stansfield According to Football Insider, Birmingham City have opened talks with Premier League side Fulham over the permanent signing of Stansfield.
The report states that the Blues are preparing to offer Fulham a package that could be worth as much as £6 million.
Stansfield is still under contract at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2027, but the report states that the Premier League side is open to letting the player leave.
Jay Stansfield's Birmingham City stats Stats as per Transfermarkt (As it stands on July 23rd) However, the Blues may not have a clear run at the player, as it has been reported by BBC Sport that Cardiff City have a tentative interest in the Fulham forward.
The report states that Cardiff could look to sign two new strikers this summer as they look to improve their forward line.
Jay Stansfield's record in League One Stansfield really impressed with Birmingham City last season in what was his first full campaign playing in the Championship.
The forward first emerged on the radar of several EFL clubs after impressing in his loan spell with Exeter City in the 2022/23 season.
The 21-year-old started his career with the Grecians but was soon picked up by the Cottagers in 2019, and before returning to Exeter in 2022, he spent most of his time at Fulham playing in their academy.
The 2022/23 season at Exeter was a chance for the player to show his parent club what he can bring to the table, and he did just that, as he scored nine goals and recorded seven assists in 36 League One games.
Stansfield averaged 1.4 shots per game that season, finishing with a goal conversion rate of 18%, with him possibly having the chance to add more goals to his name, as he missed seven big chances, as per Sofascore.com.
It was a very productive loan for the forward and one that earned him his chance to play in the Championship in the 2023/24 campaign.
Stansfield joining Birmingham City should strike fear into League One teams It would be expected that Stansfield would ideally like to continue playing in the Championship if he were to leave Fulham this summer.
However, it appears as though Birmingham City are doing all they can to bring the forward back to the club, even though they are a League One side.
This is a very ambitious pursuit from the Blues, but one that, if they are able to pull it off, surely makes them favourites for the League One title, and it strikes a sense of fear in these other clubs looking to compete at the top end of the division.
As previously stated, Stansfield already has a decent record playing in League One, and that was for a side that didn't have the attacking power that Birmingham has now.
Furthermore, the Fulham man took his game to the next level last season, as while Birmingham struggled at the foot of the table, Stansfield was still able to produce in front of goal.
The striker scored 12 goals in 43 league games, outperforming his xG, which stood at 9.28, as well as averaging a goal every 279 minutes of football.
Stansfield could have easily had more goals to his name last season, as while he scored 12 goals, he also was averaging 2.3 shots per game, and he missed eight big chances throughout the campaign, as per Sofascore.com.
It was a very productive season for the player, and one that many people would have thought he would either continue playing in or stay with Fulham in the top flight. So, for him to now be linked with a move to Birmingham City in League One is very surprising, and one that, if pulled off, makes the Blues a force to be reckoned with.
Stansfield has scored 21 goals in the last two league games, and he would partner Alfie May, who has been in sensational form in recent seasons, with him finishing the 2023/24 season with 23 league goals.
That has the potential to be a really frightening partnership, and one that many people will expect to lead Birmingham to glory this season.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/birmingham-city-jay-stansfield-transfer-should-strike-fear-into-league-one/
"Down the pecking order" - Norwich City told to look to Nottingham Forest, Fulham before transfer window ends
Norwich City will look to push for promotion next season after a play-off defeat to Leeds United ended David Wagner's tenure.
The Canaries have made a quiet start to the transfer window, with a focus on outgoings. Smart moves may depend on player departures.
Potential targets Harry Toffolo and Jay Stansfield could add depth to Norwich City's squad and increase tactical flexibility for the upcoming season.
This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...
Norwich City will be aiming to fight for promotion to the Premier League again next season.
David Wagner oversaw a sixth-place finish in the previous campaign, but a play-off semi-final defeat to Leeds United ended his time in charge of the first team squad.
Johannes Hoff Thorup has since replaced the German and will have his sights set on going one step further with the Canaries in 2025.
Norwich City's summer business so far
The Norfolk outfit have already sealed the signing of José Córdoba this summer, in what has been a relatively quiet start to the window.
But they still have until 30 August to complete any remaining deals, with outgoings proving a bigger priority so far.
While the team was strong enough for a top six finish last year, one or two additions may still be needed to maintain such a competitive level over the next 12 months.
Norwich City should target Harry Toffolo and Jay Stansfield
Here we ask our FLW writers their verdict on which realistic target Norwich should pursue before the end of the window...
Declan Harte
The impending signing of Callum Doyle is a smart move by Norwich and one they should absolutely get over the line.
It's been a surprisingly slow start to the summer, but it is a strong squad at Carrow Road and some signings may yet depend on who departs, if anyone.
But based on the squad, as it is now, another player capable of playing left-back could be a shrewd addition.
Doyle is able to play there or through the middle, but the team otherwise lacks options in that area.
Someone like Harry Toffolo from Nottingham Forest could be what they need, as he is a player with a lot of experience and knows what it takes to compete in the Premier League.
During his time in the Championship, he was crucial to Huddersfield Town reaching the play-off final, contributing an impressive six goals and seven assists in 42 appearances (stats from Fbref).
That he has fallen down the pecking order at the City Ground could also be an advantage for Norwich, as it might make him an affordable option to complement the arrival of Doyle, which could also allow for greater tactical flexibility.
Ned Holmes
Adam Idah has been strongly linked with a permanent move to Celtic and Norwich will want to bring in a replacement should he move on.
They already have Josh Sargent, who finished the season at a canter, and the experienced Ashley Barnes but Fulham's Jay Stansfield could complement that pair.
We've seen the 21-year-old's quality on loan spells with Exeter City, when he scored nine times and provided seven assists, and at Birmingham City, when he bagged 13 goals but was unable to steer them clear of relegation from the Championship.
With reports suggesting that Stansfield could be allowed to leave Craven Cottage this summer, Norwich should surely look to rival the likes of Blues, Cardiff City, Leeds United and Hull City for his signature.
A loan spell would be ideal for the Canaries but using the cash they earn from the potential sale of Idah to sign the young forward permanently would make a lot of sense as well.
He looks a player with a high ceiling and could earn Norwich a sizable profit in a few years – even if it does cost around £6 million to bring him to Carrow Road.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/norwich-city-jay-stansfield-fulham-nottingham-forest-harry-toffolo/
West Ham, Fulham and Leeds United linked £20m goal machine edges closer to transfer
The Blackburn Rovers star took the Championship by storm last season and appears destined for a Premier League move.
West Ham supporting Championship goal machine Sammie Szmodics is edging ever closer to joining Premier League rivals Ipswich Town this summer after a breakthrough campaign with Blackburn Rovers last time out.
The midfielder finished as the second tier's top scorer having plundered 27 goals for Rovers, despite the side's underwhelming form resulting in a 19th place finish. Szmodics was unlucky to miss out on the Championship Player of the Season accolade after his efforts.
Unsurprisingly, the former Peterborough United man turned heads with that output and has been hotly tipped to quit Ewood Park. The Hammers were one of the club initially linked with interest in the player, those rumours were fuelled by news that Szmodics is a fan of the London club himself.
The midfielder is a former season ticket holder at the club and only stopped going to matches when he moved up north for his career - although still managed to come down for midweek European action. However, any potential transfer to the London Stadium never really left the stage of early rumours this summer.
The Sun reported that Fulham were another Premier League club said to be weighing up a move for the star, alongside Championship outfit Leeds United. News of the Whites' interest picked up pace this week but the Yorkshire Evening Post has since labelled that as 'wide of the mark'.
That paves the way for newly promoted Ipswich Town, who are now frontrunners to bring the Hammers fan to the top flight. The East Anglian Daily Times reported that the club had sent a £6 million bid for the player.
Blackburn Rovers value Szmodics nearer the £20 million mark, with two years still remaining on his contract at Ewood Park, plus the option of another 12 months. However, BBC Sport report that the club's valuation has not deterred Ipswich with the Tractor Boys 'edging closer' to finalising a deal.
Speaking to No Tippy Tappy Football earlier this year, Szmodics admitted that a Premier League move would interest him and hoped the Championship club wouldn't stand in the way of that. He said: "Staying at Blackburn is a decision that's out of my hands because I still have two and a half years left on my contract. I love playing for Blackburn, it's a great football club, but obviously, when you score 33 goals in a season there's going to be speculation.
"I don't think anyone would begrudge me a move if a Premier League team came calling. It is my dream to play in the Premier League, I'm not saying that opportunity will definitely arise, but I don't think people could blame me for wanting to go and play there.
"If a Premier League team came knocking then it would be stupid for me not to see what could happen. If I stay at Blackburn, then hopefully I can keep scoring goals next season. I'd love to stay at Blackburn because you want to be the main man, and I've loved having that role this season. I've kept Blackburn up and done a really good job, so if I'm still there next season, then happy days.
"It is everyone's dream to play in the Premier League and although there's nothing on the table right now, I'd be stupid to turn down an opportunity to go and play in the Premier League. I want to test myself at the highest level and there will probably never be a better opportunity for me to do that than now."
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/west-ham/west-ham-fulham-and-leeds-united-linked-ps20m-goal-machine-edges-closer-to-transfer-4714210
Report: Forest, Fulham and Palace Back In For Chelsea Outcast?
What Price Loyalty in Football Nowadays?
Trevoh Chalobah, once a promising talent at Chelsea, now finds himself at a career crossroads. Recent reports and statistics provide a comprehensive look into his current situation and potential future. Let's delve into the details, comparing his performance and potential moves with a fellow teammate, Malo Gusto. He's not on their pre-season tour and all the smart money says he's set to move somewhere.
Uncertain Future at Chelsea
According to Teamtalk, Chalobah's future at Chelsea looks increasingly uncertain. The article highlights Chelsea's desire to "cash in on Chalobah" this summer. The report mentions the arrival of Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham as a free transfer, which further complicates Chalobah's position. Chalobah has had interest from clubs like Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Crystal Palace. As Teamtalk notes, "Chalobah's days were seemingly numbered following the arrival of Adarabioyo," indicating a shift in Chelsea's defensive preferences.
Despite his contributions, Chelsea seems ready to let go of Chalobah to generate funds. This move reflects a broader strategy to revamp the squad, potentially impacting other players like Conor Gallagher. With a contract until 2028, Chalobah's departure could bring significant financial relief and funds for further signings.
Chalobah's 2023-24 Season Statistics
Chalobah's statistics from the 2023-24 season demonstrate his involvement at Chelsea. At 25 years old, playing primarily as a centre-back, he made 17 appearances across all competitions. He featured in 13 Premier League matches, accumulating 950 minutes, with additional appearances in the FA Cup and EFL Cup. Although he didn't score, his defensive contributions were notable.
Chalobah's international experience with England U21 adds to his profile, making him a seasoned player with considerable experience. Despite his limited goal and assist tally, his defensive stats and presence on the field were significant. In contrast, Malo Gusto, who plays in a similar defensive position, appeared more frequently for Chelsea this season. At 19, Gusto's involvement in 19.5 matches indicates a higher usage rate. His ability to play both short and long passes, coupled with his slightly better tackle success rate, suggests Chelsea's preference for younger talent.
Comparison with Malo Gusto
Comparing Chalobah and Gusto provides insight into Chelsea's defensive dynamics. Chalobah's passing completion percentage (Cmp%) stands at 89.4%, with a tackle success rate (Tkl%) of 66.7%. Gusto, on the other hand, boasts a passing completion percentage of 86.4% and a tackle success rate of 67.3%. While Chalobah has versatility, being able to play as a centre-back, Gusto's stats show a slightly better overall performance in terms of passing and defensive actions. Gusto's 1,230 total passes compared to Chalobah's 783, and his higher number of defensive blocks, indicate a more prominent role in the team's defensive setup.
Market Valuation and Future Prospects
Chalobah's market valuation, as per Transfermarkt, stands at €13 million. Given his contract length, Chelsea is likely aiming for a transfer fee that reflects his experience and potential. His wages and long-term deal add complexity to potential moves.
The report from Teamtalk indicates that Chalobah is aware of his uncertain future and has even turned down offers, awaiting the right opportunity. His situation at Chelsea, coupled with the club's willingness to offload him, suggests that a transfer is imminent. The clubs previously interested in him might revisit their pursuit, especially given his proven Premier League experience and versatility in defence. It's a question of when and who for the player now.
https://eplindex.com/115835/report-forest-fulham-and-palace-back-in-for-chelsea-outcast.html
A chance for Fulham's next generation to shine
I don't think there is a Fulham fan who isn't frustration by the glacial pace of the club's recruitment. Marco Silva's squad is lighter than it was three weeks ago after the Whites released nine players, lost Bobby De Cordova-Reid to Leicester City and sold Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich. Fulham's transfer model places immense value on making signings at the end of a transfer window, but it increasingly asks a coach like Silva to work the oracle – especially in comparison to our competitors. The only other English top flight team not to have bought anyone in is Liverpool and Fulham's need for building is far more urgent than the task awaiting Arne Slot at Anfield.
Of course, the positive way to view the lack of experience and depth at Silva's disposal as pre-season steps up a gear is that it offers a chance to the leading lights from Fulham's academy. The current first team coach has demonstrated a willingness to give young talent its head: most famously in the form of Fabio Carvalho at the very start of his tenure, but Silva has also handed senior minutes to the likes of Jay Stansfield, Luke Harris, Martial Godo and Luc de Fougerolles. That quartet should all feature as the Whites begin a series of behind-closed-doors training games this weekend before heading off to face Benfica and Sevilla on the Algarve.
Fulham's highly-regarded academy has produced plenty of gems over the past decade, but the truth path to sustainability as envisaged by Shad Khan in the Bloomberg package yesterday runs through the integration of the best young talent into the senior side. Youth could play a big part in revamping what has been an ageing squad over the past few campaigns. Analysis from the Athletic showed Silva used only two under-21 players in the Premier League last term, the lowest of all clubs bar Arsenal. The talent is there, but the conditions have to be created for them to flourish.
de Fougerolles, who was part of the Canadian squad that finished fourth at the Copa America this summer, is a case in point. The Battersea-born versatile defender seized his opportunity during the Summer Series last year and must be licking his lips at an opportunity to grab some more first-team football as Fulham have failed to replace Tosin Adarabioyo to date. Still only nineteen, de Fougerolles will need regular game time to further his development and tests against the likes of Benfica, Sevilla and then Hoffenheim will do him no harm.
Right back Devan Tanton had a terrific season with Hayden Mullins' under-21s last term, which was capped off by winning the Fulham Supporters' Trust's Johnny Haynes trophy. It will be interesting to see how the Colombian international fares with Kenny Tete and Timothy Castagne ahead of him at right back – a loan away from Motspur Park looks his likeliest route to regular football once the season starts, but he could be another to feature prominently in the immediate future. On the other flank, the tremendously talented Jon Esenga – who starred in the under 21s' run to Premier League Cup glory last year – has a great chance to step up to senior level after Antonee Robinson's Copa America exertions.
Midfield feels like the area where the Whites badly need reinforcements – even if replacing a player of Palhinha's calibre is virtually impossible. It is unlikely that Josh King will step straight into the first team aged only seventeen, but the teenager's poise on the ball and reading of the game make him a hot prospect. Silva has already recognised the youngster's potential by naming him amongst the substitutes last season and the England youth international, adept at driving from midfield with the ball as well as picking a pass and winning a tackle, can't be far away from a senior appearance. King's journey from walking out with Tom Cairney as a mascot in the Championship promotion season of 2017/2018 to putting pen to paper on a professional deal shows you the promise of a category one academy as rich as Fulham's.
King isn't the only midfielder to have caught the eye whilst training with the senior side. Matt Dibley-Dias, another Haynes Trophy winner with Brazilian heritage was unfortunate not to make his senior debut for New Zealand last year when injury came at just the wrong time. Silva had selected the youngster among his substitutes at Everton on the opening day of the season and, having turned 21, Dibley-Dias's time is now. Comfortable as a holding midfielder or a more orthodox box-to-box operator, the Kiwi has a delightful first touch and a lovely long-range shot.
With the Whites short on wide options following the departure of De Cordova-Reid and Willian's refusal to extend his contract, we may well see more of Godo in the coming weeks. The England under-20 winger was a huge hit at Wigan Athletic last term after a meteoric rise from turning out for Margate two years ago and, whilst he will probably need a Championship loan come August, Godo's work ethic allied with a fondness for fooling full backs gives him every chance of making it to the top. Jay Stansfield, previously used as a winger by Silva before his loan exploits at Exeter and Birmingham City, could also be utilised out wide as well as through the middle in what could be a big season for the Tiverton-born talent.
There are other strikers in the mix as well. I'm intrigued to see where Olly Sanderson goes next after a couple of seasons plundering goals for Oxford City and Sutton United, whilst Callum Osmand's elevation to the senior squad earlier this month was arguably the most exciting of all. The Welsh youngster sunk Spurs with a stunning hat-trick in the Premier League Cup final and scored a hatful of goals at both under-18 and under-21 level last year. The eighteen year old's ceiling seems particularly high.
Refining the pathway from Motspur Park to the becoming a regular in the senior side at Craven Cottage has been a project occupying the brains trust of Fulham's academy for an awfully long term. A youth-set up that has delivered the likes of Marcus Bettinelli, Ryan Sessegnon, Harvey Elliott and Carvalho is the envy of England, but Fulham simply can't afford another Matt O'Riley mistake. These few weeks should give the next generation an opportunity to strut their stuff.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/a-chance-for-fulhams-next-generation-to-shine/
Aston Villa, Brighton, Fulham and Wolves 'offered' Copa America's best player for free
The best player at the 2024 Copa America has been offered to a handful of Premier League clubs.
Aston Villa, Wolves and two other Premier League clubs have reportedly been offered the opportunity to sign a 2014 World Cup star for free.
According to various reports, Rodriguez has ripped up his contract with Brazilian club Sao Paulo and is keen on a return to Europe, with England a possible destination.
Champions League side Villa have been offered Rodriguez, along with Midlands rivals Wolves and Nottingham Forest, Fulham, and Brighton. He is also attracting interest from Spain with Sevilla said to hold an interest.
Rodriguez is remembered for his displays at the 2014 World Cup for Colombia. The South American star scored in every game that Colombia played in, scoring six totals in total, whilst also getting two assists against Japan, as they went out in the quarter-finals to Brazil. He earned a move to Real Madrid on the back of his performances in Brazil, joining from Monaco for a reported £63m.
During his time in Spain he won two La Liga titles, lifted the Champions League Twice and was also a member of two of their Club World Cup winning teams. He was loaned out to Bayern Munich and won two Bundesliga titles during a two-year loan spell.
In 2020, he came to the Premier League to reunite with Carlo Ancelotti, and got six goals and eight assists during his time at Goodison Park. Since leaving Merseyside three years ago he has been on the move three times, signing for Al-Rayyan, Olympiacos and then Sao Paulo.
Rodriguez spent time out with injury last season, but rediscovered his touch at the recent Copa America. The Colombia captain was crowned the best player of the tournament as his six assists and one goal helped his country reach the final, where they lost to Lionel Messi's Argentina.
At 33-years-old, Villa are likely to pass up on the opportunity of signing Rodriguez having recently moved on Philippe Coutinho to Vasco da Gama with there an emphasis on signing players younger with resale value, unless there's an opportunity that can't pass them up. They signed Ross Barkley for a cut price fee after he excelled at Luton Town and he can play in Rodriguez' position.
https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/aston-villa/aston-villa-wolves-james-rodriguez-everton-sao-paulo-colombia-4714613
Man Utd Expecting Fresh Fulham Bid For Star
Manchester United are expecting another bid from Fulham for midfielder Scott McTominay, according to Sky Sports News.
The Red Devils have been very active in the transfer window in terms of incoming players and they are showing no signs of slowing down, with Manuel Ugarte eyed as a midfield reinforcement.
However, they need to offload players to help to fund new arrivals in the coming weeks.
Fulham are keen on replacing Joao Palhinha and Manchester United's McTominay is a player they like.
The Red Devils consider McTominay a valuable squad player but they are willing to let him go for the right price as they are looking to invest heavily in a new defensive midfielder.
They have already rejected a bid worth £17m from the Cottagers earlier in the window which shows they want more for the 27-year-old.
Fulham however are not giving up on the Scot as the Old Trafford outfit are fully expecting another bid from them for McTominay.
How much Fulham might offer remains to be seen.
Now it remains to be seen if Fulham's potential next bid for McTominay will be enough to convince the Red Devils to let him go.
https://insidefutbol.com/2024/07/24/man-utd-expecting-fresh-fulham-bid-for-star/653280/
Newcastle United handed double Serie A transfer blow as Fulham 'eye' Arsenal ace
Here, we round-up all the latest transfer gossip that has emerged surrounding Newcastle United and beyond:
Newcastle United delivered double Serie A blow
Two reported Newcastle United targets are set to move elsewhere this summer - with one potentially joining their Premier League rivals instead. The Magpies have made three signings so far this summer, but are yet to strengthen their attacking options, an area of the pitch which is a priority for them this window.
One player who had been linked with a potential move to St James' Park was Juventus winger Matias Soule. The 21-year-old spent last season on-loan at Frosinone and had been heavily-linked with a move to the Premier League with the Magpies, Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and Leicester City among the teams linked with a move.
The Foxes have even had a bid rejected by Juventus for the winger - and it seems they will lose out on his signature to Roma, with HITC reporting that Soule would prefer a move to Rome, rather than the Premier League, this summer. They also report that Dean Huijsen, who spent last season with Roma from Juventus, is a target for Bournemouth and that the Cherries are viewed as frontrunners for a deal. The teenager also has interest from the Bundesliga.
Fulham to return with bid for Arsenal star
Fulham are expected to submit an improved offer for Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe having already had a bid rejected by the Gunners earlier this summer. Smith Rowe has long been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium after failing to nail down a starting spot in Mikel Arteta's preferred XI - with the Cottagers among the frontrunners for his signature following Joao Palhinha's move to Bayern Munich.
Crystal Palace have also shown interest in Smith Rowe this summer as they look to fill the gap left by Michael Olise's departure. Newcastle United were among the clubs credited with an interest in Smith Rowe last summer, although Arsenal were reluctant to see him leave at that time.
However, the 23-year-old made just 13 Premier League appearances throughout a frustrating campaign for the former Huddersfield Town loanee.
https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-handed-double-serie-a-transfer-blow-as-fulham-eye-arsenal-ace-4714795
Fulham ready second Smith Rowe and McTominay bids
Fulham are set to submit improved offers for Arsenal winger Emile Smith Rowe and Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay, according to Sky Sports News.
The Whites failed with a first offer that was worth around £30m for England international Smith Rowe eight days ago but are looking to strike a deal with the Gunners to offer the 23 year-old regular first-team football. The Cottagers are hopeful that they can negotiate Arsenal's valuation downwards or put a package together in the manner that they managed with Bernd Leno two summers ago to secure Marco Silva's top summer target. Smith Rowe, who has joined Arsenal's pre-season tour of America, has also been the subject of an offer from Crystal Palace – and Fulham will have to battle their London rivals to seal the deal.
Sky Sports News senior reporter Dharmesh Sheth also suggests that Manchester United are awaiting a second bid for Scott McTominay. Fulham's initial offer of £17m was rejected, with United valuing the Scottish international skipper at around £40m. McTominay has a year left on his current contract, with the Red Devils holding an option for a year's extension, and, although Erik ten Haag has spoken of his desire to hold onto the 27 year-old, United's ownership have made clear that most first-team players are available for transfer at the right price.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-ready-second-smith-rowe-and-mctominay-bids/
Everton Ready to Beat Fulham to Kalvin Phillips Loan Deal Everton are looking to sign Kalvin Phillips to strengthen their midfield after the sale of Amadou Onana
The Toffees' financial constraints could mean that they are limited to offering Manchester City a loan deal.
Fulham are also interested after selling Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich.
Everton are ready to offer Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips an escape route from the Etihad Stadium this summer, according to talkSPORT.
The England international spent the second half of the 2023/24 season on loan at West Ham United but struggled to make an impact before being sent back to City early after suffering an injury.
He now has no future at the reigning Premier League champions and Sean Dyche wants to sign the holding midfielder to bolster his Toffees squad after they sold Amadou Onana to Aston Villa in a deal worth £50million.
Everton Ready Offer For Kalvin PhillipsToffees can only finance a loan move The financial situation at Goodison Park is uncertain right now and that means the club are currently only able to offer Manchester City a loan deal to sign the former Leeds United star this summer, according to the report.
Kalvin Phillips 2023/24 season stats| Appearances | 12 |
| Starts | 3 |
| Minutes | 402 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
Everton have already signed Tim Iroegbunam in midfield, while adding Jack Harrison and Iliman Ndiaye to their attacking options for the new season.
Napoli winger Jesper Lindstrom is also set to join the club from Napoli on loan with an option to buy, which will see the attentions of improving the squad steered towards central midfield.
Andre Gomes was released at the end of the season when his contract expired, while Dele Alli is training with the squad still despite his deal expiring also.
Everton to Make Dele Alli DecisionDele is training despite his contract expiring Despite suffering with major injuries and personal issues over the last 18 months, there is seemingly still a future at Goodison Park for Dele if he wants it.
The midfielder is being allowed to train with the first-team as he continues his recovery from injury, and a fresh deal has been agreed with Tottenham that means they don't have to pay a fee to re-sign him despite the initial terms of the transfer.
With Abdoulaye Doucoure signing a new contract last season and Idrissa Gueye's option to extend being triggered too, the club have got good options in midfield currently alongside James Garner and new signing Iroegbunam.
There is some money to spend for Dyche with Onana's sale, but a loan deal for Phillips would be much safer after the disaster of a time he had at West Ham.
The 28-year-old managed just eight Premier League appearances for the Hammers, which saw him get sent off once and register zero goals and assists from just two starts.
All statistics courtesy of FBRef and WhoScored.https://www.givemesport.com/everton-ready-to-offer-kalvin-phillips-manchester-city-escape-route-fulham-also-interested/
Premier League club expected to bid again for transfer of Arsenal midfielder
Fulham are reportedly expected to bid again for the transfer of Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe as they look for a replacement for Joao Palhinha in that area of their squad this summer.
Palhinha left for Bayern Munich earlier in this window and now Fulham could do with making some changes to strengthen in the middle of the park, with Smith Rowe looking like someone who could realistically be available due to his lack of playing time at the Emirates Stadium recently.
See below for this latest report on Sky Sports News, with Fulham and Crystal Palace mentioned as being among Smith Rowe's suitors, with the England international surely in need of more playing time at this stage of his career...
https://www.twitter.com/SkySportsNews/status/1816088612351439020
Smith Rowe came up through Arsenal's academy and initially looked like he could have a big future with the Gunners after doing well when he first broke into the first-team.
However, Mikel Arteta has quite quickly lifted the standards at the Emirates to make Arsenal more serious contenders for major trophies, which means it has now become that bit harder for Smith Rowe to be an automatic starter.
The 23-year-old is surely good enough, however, to play regularly for numerous other Premier League clubs, and it seems like Fulham could be a good step for him to get his career back on track.
The fact that Smith Rowe is homegrown could also be beneficial for Arsenal due to Financial Fair Play reasons, which is why we're also seeing rumours about the potential departures of Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson.
Nketiah is wanted by Ligue 1 giants Marseille as they show their ambition this summer under new manager Roberto de Zerbi, while Nelson was linked with Premier League new-boys Leicester City earlier today by Fabrizio Romano in the post on X below...
https://www.twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1816076281726841170
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/07/24/smith-rowe-transfer-fulham-to-bid-again/
Galatasaray Remain Keen On Signing Fulham Target
Galatasaray are still interested in getting their hands on Manchester United midfielder and Fulham target Scott McTominay this summer, according to Sky Sports News.
The Scotland midfielder's future at Manchester United is under the scanner despite the club not actively looking to sell him.
Fulham have their eyes on McTominay with Manchester United rejecting their initial offer of £17m earlier in the transfer window.
Manchester United are reportedly expecting Fulham to table an improved offer but McTominay continues to have suitors in Turkey.
It has been claimed that Galatasaray are still keen on getting their hands on the midfielder this summer.
The Turkish giants have been keeping tabs on the player this summer and have been exploring a deal.
Galatasaray are still eyeing a move for McTominay and are likely to keep monitoring the situation.
McTominay's sale would be considered pure profit for Manchester United and could open up the market for them in their pursuit of a new midfielder this summer.
https://insidefutbol.com/2024/07/24/galatasaray-remain-keen-on-signing-fulham-target/653334/
Fulham increase offer to €22m to sign target – Director continues talks with Whites
According to a claim in the Turkish media, Fulham have stepped up their pursuit for Fenerbahce defender Jayden Oosterwolde.
The Premier League side have been repeatedly linked with the Dutchman in recent weeks following reports of talks with the Super Lig side.
Sabah have today reported on the latest developments regarding the future of Oosterwolde, and they say Fulham have tabled an improved offer for the player.
It's claimed the west London club have increased their offer from €18m to €22m as they look to get a deal done this summer. The Turkish media outlet also report Fener sporting director Mario Branco has been in constant contact with Fulham with the hope of finding an agreement.
The Istanbul club are still demanding €30m for the Dutchman, which sounds ambitious. Fulham should expect to face competition to sign the central defender with claims Napoli are also in the race.
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-increased-bid-e22m-sign-target-director-continues-transfer-talks-whites/
Fulham Make New Play For Fenerbahce Man
Fulham have increased their offer for Fenerbahce full-back Jayden Oosterwolde and are now awaiting a response from Jose Mourinho's club, it has been claimed in Turkey.
Oosterwolde caught the attention of multiple English clubs this summer and attempts are being made to take him to the Premier League.
Nottingham Forest, Ipswich City and West Ham United were three clubs to take interest initially and the player's agent told us that his client is in demand.
Fulham are pushing for Oosterwolde and are suggested to have already made one off, which they have now followed up.
According to Turkish outlet Takvim (via Sabah), Fulham's latest offer is around €22m which is €4m more than they initially tabled.
It now remains to be seen what the Turkish club's response to Fulham's offer is.
Mourinho's club want a figure of €30m from any sale and the club's sporting director Mario Branco has been in constant touch with the Cottagers in an attempt to increase the figure.
With Oosterwolde having interest from several quarters, other clubs cannot be ruled out of getting involved in the race.
https://insidefutbol.com/2024/07/24/fulham-make-new-play-for-fenerbahce-man/653349/
R's take on Fulham in pre-season
RANGERS contested a behind-closed-doors friendly fixture versus Fulham on Wednesday afternoon.
New signing Žan Celar was given a 15-minute run-out in the match against our Premier League neighbours, which took place at the Cottagers' Motspur Park training facility.
Fulham's Harry Wilson hit a first-half brace for Fulham while Raúl Jiménez and Adama Traoré were also on target for Marco Silva's men.
After R's goalkeeper Joe Walsh fashioned an impressive early low save and Alfie Lloyd went close following a marauding run forward, the hosts took a 15th-minute lead from the penalty spot after a coming-together in the QPR box.
Jiménez tucked away the resultant spot-kick.
Rangers looked to provide an instant response and Elijah Dixon-Bonner blasted over an inviting opportunity from the edge of the area following good work from Daniel Bennie and Hevertton Santos down the right.
Fulham soon made the R's pay for that missed opportunity by doubling their lead on 25 minutes. Another neat move was eventually worked to Wilson out wide on the right, who cut in past his marker to find the far bottom corner.
As the R's continued to look for a reply, Santos' dangerous 38th-minute centre somehow evaded a host of bodies in the Fulham box, while Bennie was just unable to meet Dixon-Bonner's dangerous left-flank centre.
The home side carried a 3-0 lead into half-time, ultimately. Wilson took one touch to control a pass and subsequently nip inside his marker before burying his shot past Walsh in the 41st minute.
Michael Frey was among three players brought on at half-time for Rangers and, on the stretch, soon dragged an effort into the side-netting after meeting Lyndon Dykes' flick-on.
Fulham then added a fourth goal. A sweeping cross-field pass was controlled wonderfully well by Traoré on the halfway line before the winger embarked on a lung-busting run towards the R's box. His initial low effort was repelled by Walsh but, with the goalkeeper on the floor, Traoré followed up to head home into an unoccupied net.
As play continued, Fulham twice went close again before Rangers began to threaten their opponents a little more following six further changes in the 65th minute.
Frey was inches away from meeting Kenneth Paal's 69th-minute centre while Alfie Tuck drove straight at the home goalkeeper a minute later.
Celar was introduced for his QPR debut on 75 minutes and chances continued to flow at both ends.
Fulham hit the post while Tuck again threatened following an R's corner. Rayan Kolli also poked wide from another dead-ball situation.
But there would be no more goals as Martí Cifuentes and his QPR players now turn their attentions to Saturday's visit to Reading in pre-season.
QPR: Walsh, Santos (Dunne 65), Morrison (Cook 65), Fox (Clarke-Salter 65), Larkeche (Paal 65), Field (Tuck 46), Dixon-Bonner (Frey 46) (Celar 75), Talla (Smyth 65), Bennie (Colback 65), Lloyd (Kolli 46), Dykes (Andersen 65).
https://www.qpr.co.uk/news/2024/july/24/report-fulham/
West Ham 'Interested' in AC Milan's Alexis Saelemaekers West Ham are interested in AC Milan outcast Alexis Saelemaekers.
Several Premier League clubs are eyeing the Belgian winger.
Bologna decided against signing Saelemaekers on a permanent deal after his loan expiry.
West Ham United are among four Premier League clubs interested in AC Milan outcast Alexis Saelemaekers, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Hammers, alongside Leicester City, Nottingham Forest and Fulham, are all eyeing a move for the Belgian, who returned to the Rossoneri camp after a season on loan at Bologna.
The 24-year-old impressed under Thiago Motta last campaign, scoring four goals and providing three assists across 30 Serie A matches.
The Belgian is a subject of interest from several clubs around Italy and England, with Atalanta also eyeing a move, after Bologna decided against signing him on a permanent deal once the season finished.
Valued at around £17m this summer, Saelemaekers could soon be on the move again as AC Milan are still looking to cash in on several unwanted stars this summer, including ex-Premier League aces Divock Origi and Fode Ballo-Toure.
Reliable centre-back Malick Thiaw is also linked with a departure to England – Newcastle have reportedly reignited their interest in the 22-year-old, who could be available for £25m.
Saelemaekers on Premier League RadarAfter impressing at Bologna According to Tutto Mercato, several Premier League clubs have shown interest in Saelemaekers recently, including West Ham.
The Hammers have had a fairly quiet window so far, with deals for goalkeeper Wes Foderingham, defender Max Kilman, and winger Luis Guilherme.
Under new boss Julen Lopetegui, the east London outfit are still expected to introduce several fresh faces before the transfer window closes in August, including a new right-sided defender.
Saelemaekers, who is not expected to be part of new AC Milan boss Paulo Fonseca's project, played a memorable part in Bologna's impressive push for Champions League qualification last season.
Alexis Saelemaekers Bologna Stats (2023/24)| Competition | Games | Goals | Assists |
| Serie A | 30 | 4 | 3 |
| Italy Cup | 2 | 0 | 0 |
The 24-year-old, who has been described as 'special', is understood to be among several options for the Hammers, who look to bring in a versatile winger to support Mohamed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen next season.
Several attackers have emerged on West Ham's radar so far, including Arsenal's Reiss Nelson – according to GMS sources, the 24-year-old has already shown interest in a switch to the London Stadium as he looks to depart his boyhood club for more playing time. Leeds United's Crysencio Summerville is also reportedly an option, but the Dutch winger could be too expensive for the Hammers.
West Ham Eye Trevoh Chalobah'Ready to move' for the Chelsea outcast West Ham and Crystal Palace are interested in signing defender Trevoh Chalobah, who has been left out of Chelsea's pre-season tour.
According to talkSPORT, the Hammers are 'ready to move' for the centre-back if they manage to offload one or both of Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd this summer.
The duo have been linked with a London Stadium exit and could soon make way for another defender's arrival after Max Kilman joined from Wolves.
Chelsea academy graduate Chalobah is among players the Blues are still hoping to offload before the transfer window shuts, together with Romelu Lukaku and Armando Broja.
Statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 24-07-24. https://www.givemesport.com/west-ham-interested-in-ac-milans-alexis-saelemaekers/
Man United expecting improved Premier League bid for £30m star who wants to stay at Old Trafford
Man United are expecting Premier League rivals Fulham to make another bid for Scott McTominay before the end of the summer transfer window.
The London club are interested in bringing the Scotland star to Craven Cottage ahead of the 2024/25 campaign getting underway next month as Marco Silva looks to replace Joao Palhinha, who left to join Bayern Munich.
According to Football Insider, the Manchester club have placed a £30m price tag on the 27-year-old and are believed to have rejected a bid from Fulham this week as it fell below this valuation, reports talkSPORT.
The Cottagers are expected to return with an improved offer for McTominay with Sky Sports reporting that the Red Devils are anticipating a new proposal.
This bid is very likely to be the £30m asking price as Fulham will want to get the deal done and dusted having not added to their squad so far this summer. However, they may find it hard to convince the United midfielder to move as the 27-year-old's priority is to stay at Old Trafford and will hope to do enough throughout the 2024/25 campaign to earn a new contract.
Should Man United allow Scott McTominay to leave?
McTominay is out of contract at Old Trafford in 2025, therefore, this summer is the ideal time for Man United to bring in good money for the 27-year-old.
The Red Devils are in the market for a new central midfielder and are pursuing deals for PSG's Manuel Ugarte and free agent Adrien Rabiot. According to L'Equipe, United will need to part ways with €70m to secure the services of the Uruguay international, while Rabiot is likely to demand large wages.
To make one of these deals happen, Man United need to sell and their only options are McTominay or Casemiro, with the Brazilian being the harder of the two to move on due to his high wages.
The Scottish midfielder was a big player last season for Erik ten Hag but will need to be sacrificed this summer in order for the Manchester club to take steps forward and the Premier League giants should accept a £30m bid if it arrives from Fulham.
https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/07/24/scott-mctominay-man-united-fulham/
Report: Smith Rowe close to Fulham switch
According to David Ornstein, Emile Smith Rowe is on the verge of a move to Fulham, for a fee in the region of £35m.
There have been question marks over his future throughout the summer, and despite some talk that Mikel Arteta was keen to hang onto the 23 year old, it now looks as if he'll depart for pastures new.
Arsenal are set to play Bournemouth in Los Angeles this evening, kick off 7.30pm local time, so it could be instructive if Smith Rowe plays any part in proceedings.
If the deal is as close as reported, chances are he'll be omitted in case injury hampers or scuppers any potential transfer.
Let's see.
https://arseblog.news/2024/07/report-smith-rowe-close-to-fulham-switch/
FIRST INTERVIEW | New Assistant Manager Gonçalo SantosMarco Silva's new Assistant Manager, Gonçalo Santos, discusses his arrival at Fulham.