Fulham player 'bothered' about January exit links – Doesn't rule out signing new deal
Palmeiras are keen on signing Andreas Pereira in the winter market and have sent a €20m offer to Fulham.
On Monday, O Globo stated the 28-year-old's agent has insisted his move to the Brazilian club isn't close and Fulham are reluctant to let him leave in January.
ESPN Brasil have taken a look at the recent claims about Palmeiras interest and provide the Fulham player's stance.
They say the Brazil international is 'bothered' by the exit links and about the recent claims that he has agreed a deal with Palmeiras.
Pereira hasn't yet responded to the South American club's proposal because he's waiting for offers from other clubs. In addition to this, the report states Marco Silva's side aren't willing to let him leave in January.
These factors make it difficult for Palmeiras to sign the former Manchester United man in the next window.
The midfielder's deal lasts until 2026, with an option for another year and ESPN state he 'doesn't rule out' signing a new contract at Fulham.
This would certainly please Marco Silva and his side as Pereira is a key part of Fulham's squad. He made 17 league appearances this season and it includes 15 starts.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-player-bothered-about-january-exit-links-doesnt-rule-out-signing-new-deal/
Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham hold talks over player this week – Club ready to sacrifice him in January
Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham United have all held meetings about Juventus midfielder Nicolò Fagioli.
That's according to Tuttosport, relayed by Tuttomercatoweb, who say the midfielder is very much up for sale at the Italian club.
The newspaper explains that Fagioli is not the first choice at Juventus at this moment in time and the Italian side have decided to include him in the list of possible sacrifices in January should an attractive offer arrive for him.
They currently rate him at €20m but are willing to sit around the table and talk about a deal for him should any suitors come forwards.
The hypothesis of a move to the Premier League is 'gaining ground' and there have been 'some meetings' with Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham this week. Tuttosport do not make it clear if it was Juventus meeting with the Premier League sides, Fagioli's agents or a mix.
Either way, talks have been held this week and the possibility of a move is growing as Juventus eye up a sale.
Marseille are also in the picture but are yet to open up to anything beyond a loan with a right to buy, which doesn't particularly appeal to the Bianconeri.
That puts Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham out in front ahead of the January transfer window opening and things picking up pace.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/crystal-palace-fulham-and-west-ham-hold-talks-over-player-this-week-club-ready-to-sacrifice-him-in-january/
West Ham handed devastating injury blow ahead of Aston Villa and Fulham
Jarrod Bowen was forced off in the defeat to Liverpool and is set for a period on the sidelines.
West Ham have been handed a devastating injury blow heading into the New Year with confirmation that star man Jarrod Bowen fractured his foot in Sunday's Premier League meeting against Liverpool.
The Hammers were beaten 5-0 by Arne Slot's side but it seems that the scoreline may only be the start of worries left after that drumming at the London Stadium. Bowen limped off in the 60th minute of that game and was replaced by Crysencio Summerville.
That problem came as a result of a challenge from Liverpool midfielder Alexis MacAllister. Bowen has five goals and four assists in the Premier League so far this term and has started every league match of the season for the club.
Jarrod Bowen injury confirmed by West Ham
The England international's versatility and reliability have been key for Lopetegui as his West Ham side struggles for consistency. However, the London outfit will have to make do without their captain for a number of weeks. A statement on the West Ham website confirmed the injury on Tuesday but no timeframe was given to the recovery
It read: "West Ham United can confirm Jarrod Bowen sustained a fractured foot injury in Sunday's Premier League fixture against Liverpool.
"The injury to his left foot, picked up in the first half at London Stadium, will sideline the Hammers captain heading into the New Year."
It appeared likely that Bowen would miss out of the upcoming trip to Manchester City on Saturday but now the winger looks set to miss more than just the visit to the Champions. West Ham face Aston Villa in the FA Cup on Friday, January 10 before welcoming London rivals Fulham to the London Stadium on Tuesday, January 14.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/west-ham/west-ham-jarrod-bowen-injury-blow-4926747
Everton to follow Evan Ferguson offers for brand new transfer
Everton could follow Fulham's interest in a loan deal for Brighton forward Evan Ferguson, according to Miguel Delaney.
The report in the Independent (31 December) claims that Fulham are chasing a loan deal for the Irish attacker.
It states that the interest from the Cottagers could see the Blues, Tottenham, Arsenal and Manchester United join the race to sign the promising striker on loan.
However, it also claims that Seagulls boss Fabian Hurzeler is unwilling to allow the talent to leave the AMEX Stadium.
Ferguson would be a game-changer for Everton
The Irish international would be a game-changing signing for Sean Dyche's side as they have struggled for goals so far this season, with the manager under pressure as a result
Beating the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United to the loan signing could change the destiny of their season as they are currently being dragged back into a brutal survival battle.
The Toffees are in 16th place in the Premier League, just two points above the relegation zone and Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Beto have just three goals between them, the last of which was from the Guinea-Bissau forward in the draw with Fulham on 26 October.
Ferguson has struggled with injury this campaign, scoring just one goal in 12 league appearances but he has shown he can find the back of the net in previous seasons.
He has notched 12 goals in 46 league appearances across the past two seasons, in a total of 2,315 minutes which works out at around 25 full matches.
If the Blues could pull off a temporary deal for the talent and he can find his way back to form, it could be a massive coup for the Goodison Park club.
https://www.goodisonnews.com/2024/12/31/everton-to-follow-evan-ferguson-offers-for-brand-new-transfer/
Ruben Amorim contemplating winter Manchester United move for Antonee Robinson
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is reportedly mulling over a winter move for 27-year-old Fulham full-back Antonee Robinson.
According to a report by Give Me Sport, Ruben Amorim is weighing up a move for 27-year-old Fulham defender Antonee Robinson heading into the winter transfer window. However, Manchester United will face competition from Chelsea and Liverpool.
Robinson has established himself as a reliable performer in the Premier League, and he is certainly one of the best left-backs around. The USMNT international is valued at £40 million, and Manchester United could certainly use someone with his quality, thus justifying their interest.
Luke Shaw has struggled with persistent injury problems, and Manchester United need a top-quality left wing-back at their disposal. Antonee Robinson could make a huge difference for them at both ends of the pitch, and it will be interesting to see if they come forward with an offer to sign him next month.
Manchester United certainly have the financial muscle to pay £40 million for him, and the 27-year-old could be attracted to the idea of playing at Old Trafford as well.
Liverpool and Chelsea keen as well
Chelsea and Liverpool are keeping tabs on his situation as well, and it will be interesting to see if Manchester United's interest in the player forces them to act as well. Chelsea need an upgrade on Marc Cucurella and Renato Veiga. The United States international could prove to be the ideal acquisition.
Antonee Robinson is well-settled in the Premier League, and he could make an instant impact if he joins the club. As for Liverpool, they need to find a quality long-term replacement for club legend Andrew Robertson.
The Scottish international has been an exceptional player for Liverpool concerning the club from Hull City but he is clearly on the decline now. The player is on the wrong side of 30, and they were pulled to replace him and bring in someone younger with more quality.
Robinson would be the perfect fit for all three clubs, and he would certainly improve them immensely. The player will be attracted to the idea of joining a big club, and it remains to be seen how the situation develops. Liverpool will be able to offer him UEFA Champions League football and they are pushing for the league title as well.
On the other hand, Manchester United and Chelsea are going through a period of rebuilding under new managers. It remains to be seen what the defender decides if all three clubs come forward for him next month.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/12/31/ruben-amorim-contemplating-winter-manchester-united-move-for-antonee-robinson/
Fulham man seen as proof of problem with manager – Calls for change continue after disappointing 2024
Fulham defender Timothy Castagne being captain for Belgium is a sign of their problems and a reason why Domenico Tedesco should be replaced.
That's according to journalist Frank Raes, speaking to HUMO, who believes it is time for Belgium to go in a different direction with their manager.
Tedesco has been facing increasing criticism for months as Belgium have struggled to pick up positive results under his leadership.
Several of the big names in his squad choosing not to attend across two international breaks earlier this year was also seen as a sign that he no longer enjoyed the faith of the dressing room.
There have been calls from former players, pundits and journalists for him to be removed from his position, particularly following the loss to Israel in their final Nations League game in November.
Castagne has been a regular under Tedesco to date, starting all of their games at Euro 2024 and featuring regularly throughout the unsuccessful Nations League campaign despite now only being a substitute at Fulham.
Raes believes that is a problem and sees the fact that the Fulham man is viewed as being key as another issue to use as a negative point for Tedesco and Belgium.
"We no longer have the quality of 2018, we have become an average team," he told HUMO.
"If Timothy Castagne is your captain, a bencher at Fulham, then you know it. We have a hard time accepting that,
"It's all so childish. Tedesco tried too hard to profile himself as a young coach, and that was a bitter disappointment. With some strange lineups in the Nations League, he subsequently signed his death sentence: he is a dead man walking,"
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-man-seen-as-proof-of-problem-with-manager-calls-for-change-continue-after-disappointing-2024/
Fulham 'one of three Premier League teams' interested in Juventus' Nicolo Fagioli ahead of January transfer window
Fulham are reportedly one of three Premier League clubs that made contact over a potential move for Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli.
Marco Silva can currently call upon a number of midfield options, including Sander Berge, Sasa Lukic, Tom Cairney, Andreas Pereira and Josh King.
However, the Cottagers seem to be keen to add further quality to their engine room as they look to maintain their European push in the second half of the season.
Having, picked up 29 points from 19 matches, Fulham are currently sitting in eighth place and three points adrift of the European qualification spots at the halfway point of the campaign.
With the table tightly congested, Fulham will be aware that a quality signing or two could be the difference between securing European football or falling just short of that objective.
Fulham among Fagioli's potential suitors
According to Tuttosport, via Tuttomercatoweb, Fulham are one of three Premier League clubs that have made contact over a potential move for Fagioli in the last week.
The report claims that Juventus will demand around €20m (£16.6m) to part ways with the midfielder in the January transfer window.
Like Fulham, Crystal Palace and West Ham United have also made contact about a possible transfer, as the Premier League trio weigh up whether to step up their respective pursuits in the new year.
French club Marseille have been credited with an interest, although they are only open to a loan move with an option to buy.
Fagioli has also been linked with AC Milan and Napoli, but a move to either club appears to be off the table at his point.
Milan have seemingly cooled their interest in the 23-year-old, while Napoli are reluctant to entertain a swap deal involving Giacomo Raspadori.
Why is Fagioli heading towards Juventus exit?
The Italy international has made 66 first-team appearances for Juventus since emerging from the club's youth system.
However, Fagioli has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter under head coach Thiago Motta, who took over the reins from Massimiliano Allegri in the summer.
Fagioli has started just five of his 15 Serie A matches this season, including just one start in his previous seven league appearances.
As a result, Juventus are seemingly willing to entertain a potential departure, which could allow Fagioli to gain regular playing time elsewhere.
https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/transfer-talk/news/fulham-one-of-three-pl-teams-interested-in-fagioli_561800.html?newsnow
Celtic interested in James McAtee, could be priced out of move by Fulham, West Ham United
Manchester City attacker James McAtee has been linked with a move away from the Premier League club in recent months.
James McAtee has struggled for regular game time this season, and he needs to move on in search of regular playing time. Scottish champions Celtic are keen on securing his signature, and they will face competition from West Ham United, Fulham and Crystal Palace, as per Football Insider.
All three English clubs are keen on securing his signature if he is made available. Meanwhile, Celtic are hoping to sign the player on loan, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done. The Premier League clubs will be able to pay more than them in wages and transfer fees for the player.
It remains to be seen whether Celtic can get ahead of their rivals and secure his signature. McAtee needs to play regularly at this stage of his career, and moving away from Manchester City would be ideal for him. The youngster is highly rated around the country, and he has a bright future ahead of himself. He could develop into a quality player with the right guidance.
Manchester City should cash in on McAtee
Manchester City will not be able to provide him with the opportunities he needs right now, and they should look to cash in on the player. The 22-year-old has the physical and technical attributes to do well in the Premier League, and a move to Scotland would also be an interesting opportunity for him. There is no doubt that he has the qualities to thrive in Scottish football and he could transform Celtic in the attack.
The attacker has a contract with Manchester City until the summer of 2026, and he could be available for a reasonable amount of money. It will be interesting to see if his suitors are willing to sign him permanently next month.
Meanwhile, Celtic might not be able to compete with the English clubs financially, but they have an advantage in the race to sign the player. They might be able to offer him UEFA Champions League football, while the likes of West Ham, Fulham and Crystal Palace will certainly not be able to offer that.
https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/12/31/celtic-interested-in-james-mcatee-could-be-priced-out-of-move-by-fulham-west-ham-united/
Liverpool Midfielder Wanted by Premier League Club in January Window – Report
Exploring the Shadowy Corners of Fulham's Interest in Liverpool's Wataru Endo
Premier League club Fulham are the latest side to register their interest in Liverpool's veteran midfielder, Wataru Endo. The Japanese midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away from Anfield over recent months, and the London side are eyeing a January move to sign the midfielder to help their bid to land European football.
A Tactical Displacement Casting Long Shadows
Arne Slot, a name now synonymous with a fresh tactical ideology at Liverpool, has rendered the gritty and robust style of Endo a relic. The midfielder, known for his disruptive play, now finds himself adrift in a team that sails a course set for technical finesse over brute force. The Athletic's James Pearce captures this in a poetic lament, declaring Endo as a man "not suited to Slot's style of play."
Fulham's Quiet Contemplation and Strategic Move
In the quiet corners of planning rooms, Fulham's interest in Endo emerges as a clever move, a strategic whisper in the clamour of the transfer market. Marco Silva sees in Endo not just a player, but a symbol of tactical resistance, a potential fulcrum in Fulham's midfield to pivot their season towards European nights long missed.
This pursuit, as chronicled by The Daily Mail, suggests a dance of numbers and potential—a £11.8m bid from Marseille dismissed in the summer's early haze, now a beacon guiding Fulham's calculated approach.
The Echoes of Transfers and Tactical Shifts
The dynamics of Liverpool under Slot, while harmonious for many, cast shadows where players like Endo linger. This narrative isn't just about a player unsuitable for a system, but about the ever-shifting sands of football where strategies evolve and individuals must find their place or move on.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From the dimly lit terraces of Anfield, the tale of Wataru Endo strikes a chord of melancholic necessity. For those who bleed Liverpool red, the notion of his departure is tinged with a spectral sadness. Yet, there's a recognition, almost Lynchian in its acceptance, that the beautiful and brutal ballet of football must adapt or perish.
Endo's saga, marked by a stoic defence and a tireless chase of the ball, may soon find its next chapter in the quieter, yet no less passionate, realms of Craven Cottage. For Liverpool, the decision to let go, if it comes, will be a surrender to the grander narrative crafted by Slot, a narrative that promises as much mystery and revelation as any Lynchian twist.
As Fulham circles, the story of Wataru Endo is not one of failure but of change—a metamorphosis from the known to the unknown, from the light into the enigmatic dark.
https://anfieldindex.com/77066/liverpool-midfielder-wanted-by-premier-league-club-in-january-window-report.html
Fulham Want to Sign Liverpool Star in Bargain January Move – Report
Assessing Fulham's Strategic Interest in Liverpool's Wataru Endo
As reported by The Daily Mail, Fulham's current standings in the Premier League have positioned them as hopeful contenders for European football next season. In a bid to strengthen their squad, Fulham's management is considering a strategic move for Liverpool's Wataru Endo, a player who has found himself sidelined under the new managerial regime of Arne Slot.
Slot's System Leaves Little Room for Endo
Despite being a pivotal figure in the midfield under previous management, Endo's suitability under Arne Slot's tactical blueprint appears minimal. Slot's preference for technically adept and creatively inclined midfielders starkly contrasts with Endo's more disruptive, defensive style of play. The result? A talented player left mostly on the bench, coming on mostly as a substitute in less critical game phases.
James Pearce of The Athletic articulately summarised Endo's situation, stating he is simply "not suited to Slot's style of play." This succinct analysis captures the crux of the issue: a mismatch between player attributes and managerial tactics, making Endo a prime candidate for a January transfer.
Fulham's Clever Coup?
Marco Silva's Fulham is positioned well in the league, but they seek additional reinforcements to maintain their momentum towards a possible European spot. Their interest in Endo is not only a testament to his abilities but also to Fulham's strategy of identifying undervalued assets in competitive teams. A move for Endo could provide Fulham with a robust midfield presence, adding both experience and a proven defensive mettle that could be crucial in tight matches.
According to The Daily Mail, Fulham's approach could see them benefiting from Liverpool's tactical reshuffle, especially if they can secure Endo at a value reflective of his limited use this season. Despite Liverpool's rejection of a previous £11.8m bid from Marseille, Fulham might find more success, especially given the clear indication that Endo does not fit into Slot's long-term plans.
Liverpool's Midfield Dynamics and Transfer Implications
Under Slot, Liverpool has seen a resurgence in form with several players excelling in the new system. However, Endo's situation illustrates the challenging dynamics of football management, where not all players adapt well to changes at the helm. Liverpool might need to consider their strategy carefully; maintaining squad depth while also allowing players who are not part of the tactical core to seek opportunities where they can be more impactful.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter's perspective, the situation with Wataru Endo is bittersweet. While it's frustrating to see a player of his calibre underutilised, the realities of football management often lead to tough decisions like this. Endo's potential departure could be seen as a necessary move for both his career and Liverpool's squad efficiency under Slot.
His defensive prowess and work rate have endeared him to many, but with Arne Slot steering the ship towards a more creative midfield setup, it's understandable why Endo hasn't found his place. For Fulham, acquiring a player of Endo's quality could be a significant boost, particularly if they are aiming to consolidate their position and push for European qualification.
In essence, if Liverpool can secure a reasonable fee for Endo, it could be a win-win situation for all involved—Liverpool can invest in a player more suited to Slot's vision, Endo can hopefully find more regular football, and Fulham can bolster their squad with a seasoned Premier League player.
https://eplindex.com/125052/fulham-want-to-sign-liverpool-star-in-bargain-january-move-report.html
Pereira poised to stay with Fulham
The chances of Andreas Pereira joining Palmeiras during the January transfer window appear to have receded dramatically, according to reports in the Brazilian press.
Palmeiras have seen two bids rejected over the past fortnight and are awaiting a formal response to their latest £12m offer. Monday's O Globo quoted Pereira's agent as suggesting that a move wasn't imminent and that the Londoners are not keen on letting the former Manchester United man leave Craven Cottage in January. This matches with Marco Silva's insistence last week that the 28 year-old will have to submit a formal transfer request to leave the club.
ESPN Brazil reports today that Pereira himself is bothered by the furore surrounding Palmeiras' interest and, intriguingly, contains a suggestion that the Brazilian international 'doesn't rule out' extending his Fulham contract, which currently runs until 2026. There is also the inference that Pereira's reluctance to return to his home land has more to do with potential offers from European clubs, including Nice, who he raved about in a previous interview.
https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/12/pereira-poised-to-stay-with-fulham/
Chelsea 'eye' Premier League striker pair worth £54m amid West Ham and Fulham interest
An Ipswich Town striker and Brighton centre forward have generated interest from Chelsea, West Ham and Fulham.
According to new reports, Chelsea are keen on signing both Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap and Brighton and Hove Albion's Evan Ferguson in the January transfer window. The Blues have been linked to several strikers in the past few months, but they could swoop for Delap or Ferguson who are both younger than several other linked forwards.
Liam Delap recently made headlines as he scored one of Ipswich's two goals in their 2-0 win against Chelsea on Monday night. He has scored seven league goals in 18 games for the Tractor Boys this season.
Meanwhile, Ferguson has struggled to break into Fabian Hurzeler's team this season. He has made 12 appearances in the Premier League, scoring just one goal. However, according to TalkSport, the Blues are keen to bolster their front line with either Delap or Ferguson in an attempt to take some of the pressure off Nicolas Jackson.
The Chelsea man has scored nine goals in 18 Premier League games so far this year under Enzo Maresca. The report suggests that Chelsea continue to have a longstanding interest in Ferguson despite his poor form for the Seagulls this year. Meanwhile, it also suggests that they have sent scouts from Stamford Bridge to watch Delap play for Ipswich on several occasions.
Chelsea learn hefty price tag for Brighton star
Ferguson, 20, has been one of the most in-demand young strikers in world football after his break out season in 2022/23. He came into Brighton's first team, and scored six goals in 19 games at the age of just 18. The report suggests that due to his high potential and young age, Brighton view Ferguson as a very expensive asset which could cause problems for Chelsea should they want to make a move for him.
The Seagulls reportedly value Ferguson at £80m-£100m despite his poor season under Hurzeler this year. The hefty price tag means that it would be unlikely that Chelsea could secure the services for Ferguson in January. Recent reports have also linked both Fulham and West Ham to the Irish international. The Hammers have emerged as the favourites to sign him, but on a loan deal from the Amex.
Premier League rivals could buy back Liam Delap
urthermore, it could also be tricky for Chelsea to secure Delap's services as his former club Manchester City could buy him back from Ipswich.
The Englishman made the move from City to Ipswich in the summer for an initial fee of £20m. However, a buy-back clause was included in his contract, meaning that City could pay £30m for Delap to return to the Etihad without question. However, it was reported in November, that City have claimed that they aren't going to buy-back the 21-year-old.
https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/chelsea-west-ham-transfer-news-liam-delap-4926423
How Fulham's XI could look in 2025 with £30m striker and Liverpool ace among five signingsAfter another impressive year of coupon-busting from Marco Silva's Fulham, the question facing the Premier League's perennial overachievers heading into 2025 is, well, what next?Can The Cottagers take that next step? Can Fulham emulate, say, the likes of Brighton and Hove Albion and establish themselves amongst the division's European chasers?
Or, with swashbuckling left-back Antonee Robinson attracting interest from some of the Premier League's big-hitters, are Fulham about to lose one star man too many?
TBR understands that Liverpool have put Fulham flyer Robinson at the top of their wishlist in pursuit of a new left-back. Arguably the finest in his position anywhere in England's top-flight, Robinson would take some replacing.
But considering that Fulham lost both top scorer Aleksandr Mitrovic and midfield colossus Joao Palhinha and bounced back, who is to say this plucky, purposeful team out of West London cannot do the same again?
Antonee Robinson out and Kostas Tsimikas in at Fulham?TBR have been told that Liverpool may be willing to offer a makeweight in any deal for Robinson. Kostas Tsimikas, the club's long-serving back-up to Andy Robertson, could potentially move in the other direction.
Now, Tsimikas might lack Robinson's explosive pace – he would give even the odd Olympic athlete a run for his money, quite literally – but you don't make nearly 100 appearances over five years at Anfield without possessing serious talent.
In fact, if Tsimikas had not spent the last half-decade competing with one of the finest full-backs of the 21st century, he would surely have generated a far greater reputation for himself.
"Kostas has a lot of quality," former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp once said, highlighting the predicament facing the Greek international. "He can push Andy Robertson but Andy Robertson, in my eyes, is the best left-back."
If Fulham are willing to consider a cash-plus-player swap deal, the chance to play regular, week-in, week-out Premier League football for the first time is something that is likely to appeal to Tsimikas.
Ditto Ben Chilwell, having fallen out of favour at Chelsea. His one and only appearance under Enzo Maresca, thus far, came against fourth-tier Barrow in the EFL Cup.
Fulham may offer Chelsea misfit Chilwell an escape route down the road at Craven Cottage, though his wages and his worrying injury record perhaps makes Tsimikas a better option when discussing potential Robinson successors.
On the opposite flank, TBR have been told that Fulham are among those eyeing Fenerbahce's Bright Osayi-Samuel. Another who has represented one of the Cottagers' local rivals, former QPR flyer Osayi-Samuel has blossomed into a rampaging right-back in Turkey.
Should he return to familiar surroundings, he would likely replace Kenny Tete. That's if the Dutchman – one of the most consistent and underrated operators in England's top-flight – does not extend a contract which expires in 2025.
Speaking of expiring contracts, Josh Brownhill's uncertain future at Burnley has caught Fulham's attention. With Tom Cairney now 33 – though still as talented a technician as you will come across – a footballer of Brownhill's experience and versatility, especially on a free transfer, could come in very useful.
Cairney, like Tete, has less than 12 months left on his Fulham deal. As do Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore, although Fulham do have a one-year extension option to trigger, should they wish to do so.
Tolu Arokodare and Igor Jesus among Fulham's striker targetsJimenez's triumphant return to form – four years on from that horror head injury – has been a joy to behold. But he too is 33 now, and certainly not a long-term answer to Fulham's centre-forward question.
Tolu Arokodare, however, could be.
A 6ft 6ins giant of a number nine, TBR understands that Fulham have watched Arokodare find the net for fun in Belgium with KRC Genk. Igor Jesus, meanwhile, is a very different, and certainly far more expensive, attacking target.
Reportedly valued at £30 million by Botafogo, this has been a breakthrough year for Igor Jesus. He netted on his Brazil debut, helped Botafogo win their first ever Copa Libertadores, and netted 25 goals across all competitions at club level.
Igor Jesus, a mobile, dynamic attacker, likens his game to that of Vinicius Junior and Gabriel Martinelli, even if he prefers to lead the line rather start out wide like the Real Madrid and Arsenal stars.
Botafogo president Durcesio Mello admits Igor Jesus is likely to leave with Arsenal and Chelsea keen too.
Another Brazilian youngster on Fulham's radar, meanwhile, is Rayan. Vasco da Gama are ready to consider offers for Rayan at £8.5 million. But, at the age of just 18, Rayan would likely be viewed as one for the future rather than someone capable of stepping straight into Fulham's XI and making a difference.
The same cannot be said of Romano Schmid, however.
Consistently impressive in the German Bundesliga over the last 18 months or so, Schmid's all-action style, his outstanding high-press and his defence-splitting passes will appeal greatly to Marco Silva. No wonder Fulham have the Werder Bremen dynamo on their wishlist, with his contract situation potentially leading to a bargain sale of less than £10 million.
Fulham admire Romano Schmid and this should have Andreas Pereira – underwhelming this term in a deeper role – glancing nervously over his shoulder.
(http://www.friendsoffulham.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/lineup-image-2.webp)
With Fulham settled in defensive midfield and with Joachim Andersen and Issa Diop options for the right-sided centre-back role, the final position Silva and co may look to strengthen in the New Year is the spot currently occupied by Calvin Bassey.
Jorge Cuenca, a £5.4 million addition from Villarreal over the summer, is yet to make his mark in the capital. And, with TBR learning that Fulham are keen on Nantes' Nathan Zeze – and with Elfsborg's Terry Yegbe linked too, via Fotbol Direkt – questions may arise about whether the Cottagers plan to cut their losses on Cuenca already.
Still only 19, Zeze has also caught the eye of Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Wolves and even Liverpool thanks to some outstanding displays in France's top flight. £17 million, however, is a lot of money for a player who may struggle to displace Bassey from Marco Silva's XI.
Do not be surprised, then, if Fulham opt for 23-year-old Ghana international Yegbe instead, amid a reported £4 million price-tag.
https://tbrfootball.com/how-fulhams-xi-could-look-in-2025-with-30m-striker-and-liverpool-ace-among-five-signings/
Quote from: WhiteJC on January 01, 2025, 09:15:11 AM
"If Timothy Castagne is your captain, a bencher at Fulham, then you know it. We have a hard time accepting that,
There's only one bencher at Fulham
Quote from: bencher on January 01, 2025, 10:13:54 AMQuote from: WhiteJC on January 01, 2025, 09:15:11 AM
"If Timothy Castagne is your captain, a bencher at Fulham, then you know it. We have a hard time accepting that,
There's only one bencher at Fulham
One of our most under appreciated players.
They are so lucky to have him.