Friends of Fulham

All eyes on four players during Leeds United vs Fulham including Facundo Buonanotte
The new January signing is eligible to feature for Leeds United this weekend, though the question is - will he?

Leeds United fans will see Saturday's game against Fulham as an opportunity to get three points on the board, despite the good form of the Cottagers.

Marco Silva's side have not lost a game in six outings across all competitions and currently sit ninth in the Premier League. The visitors, though, will continue to be without key duo Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey, who are due to play in the AFCON third-place play-off this weekend.

Leeds are hoping to use their momentum to roll over Fulham, having lost just one game in their past nine after a run that included Liverpool twice, Chelsea and Manchester United.

However, it does remain true that they have not registered a Premier League win since that 4-1 thumping of Crystal Palace five games ago. Context is king and scorelines alone do not tell half of the story.

Leeds will feel capable of avenging September's agonising defeat at Craven Cottage following Gabriel Gudmundsson's heart-breaking and bizarre stoppage-time own goal.

Will Buonanotte make the bench?
Facundo Buonanotte has only just walked through the doors of Thorp Arch yet could make the cut for Saturday's game. Whether he will or not is a different matter.

He has played only 45 minutes of Premier League football all season, having been used as a rotation player by initial loan club Chelsea.

The 21-year-old has played three Champions League games and four cup fixtures, though. He will certainly not be starting as a result of his reduced game time, with the very maximum inclusion being a place on the bench, surely.

Either way, him signing before the cut-off deadline of midday on Friday means he is at least technically eligible to take part. Whether from the stands or the bench, the camera lenses will be trained on him.

Lucas Perri
Daniel Farke is expected to stick with Lucas Perri in goal this weekend, despite his public criticism of him after his last two outings. Having made a "mistake" against Manchester United for rushing off his line, as Farke put it, he failed to keep out Newcastle United's saveable winner.

Some supporters have called for Karl Darlow to come in for Perri, who has earned audible groans from the terraces at times. There has been an obvious murmur of anxiety when the ball is passed back to the goalkeeper amid his poor distribution.

Eyes will be trained on how he fares against Fulham given the outright singling out by Farke. From now on it will be a test of resolve and what kind of character he is when responding to heat.

Harry Wilson
Leeds were after two Fulham stars this summer, one of whom was Rodrigo Muniz. He will not be taking to the pitch at Elland Road this weekend having been out for months with a hamstring injury that required surgery.

On the other foot, deadline day target Harry Wilson is in the form of his life. Six goals and four assists in his last 12 games has been the catalyst for Fulham's recent good form.

The Welshman was on the brink of signing for Leeds on summer deadline day, having signed all the paperwork amid waiting for the green light from Fulham. But the London club pulled the plug at the last minute, leaving Leeds frustrated.

Wilson went close with a free kick in the reverse fixture, with Darlow having to claw away a fine save. In a different world, Leeds fans might have loved seeing Wilson score at Elland Road - but in this world, right now, they are very much hoping he doesn't.

Right-back selection
Jayden Bogle is fit to play on Saturday, having recovered from his calf injury which has forced him to miss the last three matches. It means there is a decision to be made at right wing-back.

James Justin has performed brilliantly in Bogle's absence and after his FA Cup goal at Derby County on Sunday, Farke dropped comments that left ambiguity who he sees as the first choice pick.

Few would mind seeing Justin start against Fulham and he might well do given Bogle has had a number of weeks off through injury. Another strong performance from the summer signing will ramp up the debate ahead of the following clash at Everton.



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/eyes-four-players-during-leeds-33236376

'What worried me about Leeds...' – Paul Merson makes controversial Leeds United vs Fulham prediction
Daniel Farke's Leeds United side have defied expectations in the Premier League this season and are now well placed to retain their top-flight status.

Leeds were widely tipped for relegation after promotion, with Farke's record at Norwich City frequently cited as a reason for scepticism around both the manager and the squad.

However, the Whites have opened up an eight-point cushion over the relegation zone, prompting a notable change in tone from pundits. Both Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker have already performed a dramatic U-turn on their pre-season predictions for Farke's team.

Leeds are set to face Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday in a game that has already attracted some weird predictions. However, Paul Merson has added more spice to what he thinks could happen this weekend.

Paul Merson makes an odd Leeds United vs Fulham prediction
Merson has admitted that Leeds should have shut up shop and left Newcastle with a point after Bruno Guimaraes made it 3-3 at St. James' Park.

He believes that if Leeds lose against Fulham on Saturday, then they will be back in the talk around relegation, while a win will almost certainly guarantee them safety for one more season in the Premier League.

The former Arsenal man is expecting an entertaining game and feels Fulham will leave Elland Road with a point in their bag this weekend.

Merson said on Sportskeeda: "You know what worried me about Leeds against Newcastle the other day? They kept going for it. They were playing well and kept going in for more. I think they should have just tried to settle for a point there.

"Now that Leeds have lost that game, I hope it doesn't come back to bite them again. They should have just shut up and shop at 3-3 and walked away from St. James' Park with a draw.

"This is a massive game for Leeds. If they lose to Fulham, they are back in the battle to avoid relegation. Fulham look confident now. Harry Wilson looks like someone who is going to score every time he walks onto the pitch!

"A win for Leeds would ensure safety, in my opinion. They are already eight points clear of West Ham. If they get three points and West Ham lose this weekend, the gap becomes 11 points.

"For the record, West Ham have won just three games in 21 games this season. So essentially, the Hammers will have to win four games from the remaining 16 and Leeds should basically lose all the upcoming matches for them to survive. That tells you everything!

"I expect Leeds to score and give away chances to Fulham. This could be an entertaining watch.

"Prediction: Leeds United 2-2 Fulham."



https://www.theleedspress.com/what-worried-me-about-leeds-paul-merson-makes-controversial-leeds-united-vs-fulham-prediction-48406/

Matchday Preview: Leeds United
🆚 Leeds United
🏟 Elland Road
🏆 Premier League
🗓 Saturday 17th January
⏰ 3pm

The opposition

Since December, Leeds United can be very happy with their Premier League performances. After entering the final month of the year in the relegation zone, they went on a seven game unbeaten spell, beating Chelsea and thumping Crystal Palace in that time. That run did look set to extend to an eighth game last week until Newcastle United scored two stoppage time goals to turn a defeat into victory, but Leeds nonetheless still have a healthy eight point gap between themselves and the bottom three.

Team news

⚪️  Leeds have been boosted at the back this week, with defenders Joe Rodon, Sebastiaan Bornauw, Jayden Bogle and Gabi Gudmundsson all in training, while new signing Facundo Buonanotte could make his debut. Former Fulham loanee Dan James is the only absentee.

🖤 Kenny Tete and Rodrigo Muniz are still injured, but Josh King has a chance of making the squad. Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze will return from international duty after this game.

Tickets

Tickets are now off sale, with around 2,500 sold. Fans attending are reminded that digital tickets are in operation for this fixture.

Kits

Leeds will be in all white and Fulham all black, while both sides will wear black armbands in memory of Terry Yorath, for whom there will also be a period of applause ahead of kick-off.


Weather

🌧 Light wind and rain is forecast in Leeds, with temperatures around seven degrees.

Coverage

FFCtv subscribers can listen to commentary from Gentleman Jim and Jamie Reid. Overseas supporters can see who is showing the game in your region at this page.

Away fan guide

Leeds have provided the below guide for Fulham fans attending the match.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/january/16/matchday-preview-leeds/

Want to Buy Harry Wilson? No Chance, Says Fulham Boss Marco Silva
Harry Wilson's future is locked in at Fulham with the club insisting there is no chance of the Wales talisman leaving this January.

Fulham manager Marco Silva has insisted there is "zero chance" of the Wales international leaving Craven Cottage during the transfer window.

Wilson's situation had come under scrutiny despite his sparkling form, which continued with a goal and an assist in Fulham's 3-1 FA Cup victory over Middlesbrough.

Questions were raised after Silva initially said last weekend, "I don't know if I am going to have him in one week, 15 days, three months or at the end of the season, with good or bad news."

However, speaking ahead of Fulham's trip to Leeds on Saturday, Silva moved to clarify those remarks and shut down any suggestion that Wilson could depart this month.

"To clarify, because I said that we have to enjoy him for one month, two months, or maybe another one or two years if we can renew with him, but there is completely zero chance of him leaving (in January)," Silva told reporters.

"Not because we have an offer – I know there is starting to be some noise about the possibility of him leaving in this window – no chance, zero chance."

While Wilson's immediate future appears settled, his longer-term situation remains unresolved.

The 28-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and, although discussions over a new deal are ongoing, he would be free to speak to overseas clubs and potentially leave on a free transfer this summer.

Given his current output, interest from elsewhere seems inevitable.

Wilson has enjoyed the most productive campaign of his Fulham career, scoring 11 goals and providing six assists across club and country.

He has also started 18 Premier League matches this season — more than in any previous campaign at the club — underlining his growing importance in Silva's side.

The winger has found the net in his last three appearances, with strikes against Liverpool and Chelsea in the league either side of his FA Cup contribution.

That consistency, Silva believes, is rooted in Wilson's development as a player.

"I think he's getting more mature year by year. Game time is important for him," Silva said.

"I felt, and we felt, from this pre-season he was, I have to say, more mature. I think the game time, because he's playing and deserving it from the beginning of the season."

Silva also highlighted Wilson's technical quality and growing composure in decisive moments, traits that have been evident in a series of eye-catching goals this term.

"Of course, great left-footed quality in the finishing—a player who is capable of arriving with the right timing and in the right spots in the box," Silva added.

"He has a good feeling for the moments and the spots to arrive inside the box. Of course, he's more calm in some moments right now."

The Fulham boss feels the winger's confidence has reached a point where everything is aligning for him on the pitch.

"The goals, the good performances, and the trust from all of us are giving him what he needs because he's a player who requires that confidence from all of us—the staff and myself.

"Sometimes he needs to have that pressure behind him so he can decide games, and everything together is coming like almost a click. Really, he's doing well.

"Let's hope he can continue this way. Of course, the confidence from us, his teammates, and his good performance will always be a great help for him to maintain this level."

Wilson's club form has mirrored his impact on the international stage.

The former Liverpool winger struck a hat-trick for Wales in their emphatic 7-1 World Cup qualifier win over North Macedonia at the Cardiff City Stadium, a performance that seemed to ignite his scoring run for Fulham.

Amid the goals and plaudits, Wilson himself has offered a lighter explanation for his hot streak — an unusual superstition involving his boots.

"A couple of months ago I went into a tackle and my laces split and the kitman at half-time only had one pair of laces left," Wilson explained after the Chelsea win.

"I think that was when my good run started, so I feel like I can't change now.

"The lace in my right boot is a little bit longer than the one in my left.

"I feel like when you get into a moment when you're in good form, you're scoring, you're assisting the team, doing well, I like to keep everything the same, so that's what I'm going to do."



https://www.dragonsports.co.uk/football/news/want-to-buy-harry-wilson-no-chance-says-fulham-boss-marco-silva

Kev targeting Premier League goals
Having broken his duck for Fulham in the FA Cup victory over Middlesbrough last week, Kevin is now looking to make his goalscoring mark in the Premier League.

After coming close on a number of occasions since making his debut against Saturday's opponents Leeds United in September – a fixture he refers to as 'a special game' – the winger was delighted to get off the mark in front of the Hammy End.

"Yeah, I'm very happy for my first goal," he said. "It was very important for me. This group, my friends, help me all the time, and I'm very happy for my first goal.

"Now I want my first goal in the Premier League, and I'll wait for the [Leeds] game. It's a difficult game, but we're working every day and we're looking forward to it."

The supporters have been willing a Kevin goal for some time now, and he admitted it meant a lot to have that backing from the Fulham faithful.

"It's special for me. I scored the goal, and to see the fans speak to me all the time, it's very important to me."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/january/16/kevin-targeting-premier-league-goals/

Team News: Leeds vs. Fulham injury, suspension list, predicted XIs
Bidding to snap a four-game losing run against their capital counterparts, Leeds United welcome Fulham to Elland Road for Saturday's Premier League contest.

The Whites eased past Derby County 3-1 in the FA Cup last weekend, while the Cottagers eliminated Middlesbrough courtesy of an identical win, and here Sports Mole rounds up the team news for both clubs.

LEEDS vs. FULHAMLEEDS
Out: Daniel James (thigh)

Doubtful: Sebastiaan Bornauw (hip), Jayden Bogle (calf), Joe Rodon (fatigue)

Sports Mole's predicted XI: Perri; Struijk, Rodon, Bijol; Justin, Gruev, Ampadu, Stach, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Aaronson

FULHAM
Out: Kenny Tete (thigh), Calvin Bassey (AFCON), Alex Iwobi (AFCON), Samuel Chukwueze (AFCON), Rodrigo Muniz (thigh)

Doubtful: Joshua King (knee)

Sports Mole's predicted XI: Leno; Castagne, Andersen, Diop, Robinson; Berge, Cairney; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jimenez



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/leeds-united/relegation-battle/team-news/leeds-vs-fulham-injury-suspension-list-predicted-xis_589892.html

Pre-Match Analysis: Leeds United prepare to host Fulham
Daniel Farke's side have improved in recent weeks and have climbed to 16th and are 8 points above the relegation zone.

Leeds United come into this game after a run of positive results over the festive period. Standout results included a win against Chelsea and draws with Liverpool and Manchester United. They went on a seven game unbeaten run in the Premier League and that has certainly meant that Daniel Farke's side have been starting to look up the table, as opposed to worrying about relegation.

They will know that survival is not guaranteed by any means but will be feeling optimistic at this moment in time. Last week, they progressed to the next round of the FA Cup with a 3-1 win against Derby County.

However, in their last league game they were unlucky to lose 4-3 at Newcastle United. The side from West Yorkshire definitely played their part in the game and were in front three times yet suffered defeat after a late, late winner from Harvey Barnes.

It was a defeat that hurt but there would also have been positives to take from it and it was an all-time Premier League classic match.

This week they host Fulham. Marco Silva's side also had a good Christmas as they come into this unbeaten in their last six league games. Before Christmas, they were in a potential relegation battle too and looking over their shoulder yet have climbed as high as 9th in the table.

When the two sides last met in September, it was a 1-0 win for the Cottagers - but it would be fair to say that Leeds have improved a lot since that day and that is something they will be keen to prove. There will be hope amongst fans that they can better their points tally from the first half of the season.

Can Dominic Calvert-Lewin continue his form?

The striker now has nine goals so far this season, and after scoring six goals in December he has been named as the Premier League player for the month. His scoring run was a key part of the side's success and the Englishman deserves a lot of credit for how he kickstarted his Leeds career as before that run, he only had one goal.

The former Everton striker has been proving a handful for defenders.

He was able to carry on his 2025 scoring with a goal in the Newcastle defeat and he will be hungry for more goals this weekend.

It is not just goals he brings to the team, it is his movement and Premier League experience. If he could stay fit, which was always going to be the challenge, then the summer signing had the potential to be a great move. It is now proving to be just that, and there has even been talk of a possible call-up to Thomas Tuchel's England squad if he can keep finding the net.

Is there a concern that Leeds are conceding too many?

It has not always been an issue in recent games as they did keep a clean sheet at Anfield. However in the game at Elland Road, they conceded three to Liverpool and also conceded three times at St James' Park. It will not be something that they want to make a habit as it could be argued that they did enough going forward to win the game against the Magpies.

If you are conceding three goals in games then it puts a lot of pressure on the forwards. It is likely that Fulham will fancy themselves scoring against Leeds this week.

They have conceded 37 goals so far this season and that is more than Nottingham Forest, the side who are below them in the table.

How will the rest of the season play out for Leeds?

Despite Fulham being higher up in the table, Leeds fans may see this as a winnable game, and one where they can pick up points. It is likely that their home form could be important and be where they pick up most of their points.

However, Farke deserves a lot of credit for their recent results and it has given them a great chance of avoiding relegation. There is still a lot of football to play, but Forest are optimistic of their survival chances after beating West Ham last time out and they are below Leeds.

Farke's side still have big games to play and the home game against Forest in a few weeks could be a big one. Their next home match against league leaders Arsenal will inevitably be a tough test.

However, they may come into this game with reasons to believe they can get something from it and close the gap to Bournemouth, who are above them.

After recent years, to stay up as a newly-promoted side would represent a real success but that could now be a reality.

It could be set to be an interesting game, they will know not to underestimate Fulham as they still have the potential to turn up and win comfortably. Leeds will have to be at their best but they will feel confident of achieving a good outcome.



https://www.vavel.com/en/football/2026/01/16/premier-league/1247487-pre-match-analysis-leeds-united-prepare-to-host-fulham.html

Everest Men's Performance of the Week: Fulham
(Nominations each week include Premier League, EFL Championship, EFL League One, EFL League Two fixtures)

The League Managers Association's panel, comprising of LMA Chairman Martin O'Neill OBE, Jess Creighton, Les Ferdinand MBE, Sir Alex Ferguson CBE, Barry Fry, Chris Hughton, Mick McCarthy, Stuart Pearce MBE, Clare Tomlinson, Carla Ward, and Rachel Yankey OBE has determined that the Everest Men's Performance of the Week Award should go to Fulham for their performance against Chelsea on Wednesday 7th January.

Marco Silva will receive the Everest Men's Performance of the Week trophy.

Match Report
Fulham made it six Premier League games unbeaten with victory in the SW6 derby on Wednesday evening.

A highly eventful first half saw Chelsea full-back Marc Cucurella sent off for hauling down Harry Wilson when he was the last man, before Wilson had a goal chalked off in stoppage time by VAR.

The second period was just as chaotic, but this time in terms of goalmouth action. Raúl Jiménez headed us in front from a peach of a Sander Berge delivery, only for Liam Delap to equalise.

But Wilson continued his red hot form with a rare right footed finish nine minutes from time to earn a third win over our local rivals during Marco Silva's tenure.

There was just the one change to the XI that began the Liverpool draw three days earlier, with Berge coming in for Saša Lukić, while Ryan Sessegnon made a welcome return to the bench.

Read more here: https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/january/07/fulham-2-1-chelsea/



https://www.leaguemanagers.com/latest-news/everest-mens-performance-of-the-week-fulham

Wilson wins Guinness Premier League Goal of the Month
Harry Wilson has won the Premier League's Guinness Goal of the Month award for December.

We're long since used to Wilson wowing us with worldies, but his effort against Crystal Palace was something different – starting with a crisp Alex Iwobi pass, Wilson and Raúl Jiménez then played a balletic one-two, before the wizard bent an unbelievable strike away from Dean Henderson with the outside of his left boot.

"Delighted to win Premier League Goal of the Month," Wilson said. "Real nice accolade for me personally, one that caps off a really good month for both myself and the team."

It's the second time that Wilson has claimed the Premier League's GOTM accolade, this one coming 13 months after he was presented with the coveted trophy for his spectacular flick against Brentford.

Congratulations, H!




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/january/16/wilson-wins-guinness-premier-league-goal-of-the-month/

From the press box: King could be back in contention for trip to Leeds
Jack Kelly updates us from Marco Silva's latest press conference

After the FA Cup successes last weekend, Fulham will be back in Premier League action, travelling up to Leeds on Saturday.

Marco Silva revealed that Josh King could be back in contention for Saturday, whilst Kenny Tete and Rodrigo Muniz remain out.

After Nigeria lost on penalties in the semi-finals of AFCON, Silva confirmed that the the Fulham trio of Chukwueze, Iwobi and Bassey, would be back in training next week ahead of the game against Brighton at Craven Cottage.

This month has seen Ipswich Town show interest in captain Tom Cairney. A deal seems unlikely, with Cairney himself saying this:

"I can't really see myself wearing any other kit. If I picture myself in another kit it just feels weird. It's football, things chop & change all the time. I want to play after this season."

Cairney is out out of contract in the summer, with Silva saying that Cairney deciding to retire at Fulham would be the best scenario.

"The best scenario for Tom, if it's going to be possible, is for him to end his career at Fulham. In one year, two years, three years time, I don't know when. It's going to be special for him, & it's going to be special for the fans as well", said Silva.

"I know that he loves football, he's in a good condition to keep playing, & of course if he can prolong his career in a Fulham shirt and if Fulham can allow him to do it, I think it's going to be a great feeling for him & for his family."

Hopefully we can see some more years of TC in a Fulham shirt, his club journey has been incredible, and he's still contributing for his side in the Premier League.

Silva didn't give an update on Harry Wilson's contract situation, but did confirm that there is 'zero chance' the Welshman leaves in the summer.

"The club is speaking with his representatives as well, but zero chance for him to leave the club in January. Completely zero. Not because we have an offer, I know that's starting to come some noise about the possibility for him to leave in this window. No chance, zero chance", said Silva.

As for tomorrow's game, Fulham have a chance to secure back-to-back Premier League wins. Fulham could also extend their unbeaten league run to seven if they avoid defeat at Elland Road.

Furthermore, three points, or even one on Saturday would see Fulham go five games unbeaten away from home in the Premier League.

Fulham's last league game outside of London was against Burnley, which feels like an awfully long time ago now.

Leeds have picked up important points over the festive/new year period. With West Ham stuttering in 18th, they've now got an eight point lead over the Hammers, as they try to continue to climb away from danger.

Our last trip to Elland Road was a memorable one, coming from behind to win 2-3, in front of a toxic home ground, who were less than impressed with the man at the helm at the time - Jesse Marsch.

Goals from Aleksander Mitrovic, Bobby Reid and Willian gave Fulham all three points on the road, at a ground where Fulham had struggled in seasons before that occasion.

I would imagine Fulham stick with the four at the back which they went with against Middlesborough. King, if available, will most likely be on the bench, with Emile Smith Rowe on great form.

What will we see from December Goal of the Month winner Harry Wilson who came close to joining Leeds in the summer according to reports.

I'm looking forward to this one, see you all in Leeds tomorrow! Fulham will wear black and gold hoping for a similar outcome to the last time we wore those colours.

UTF!



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/from-the-press-box-king-could-be

Preview: Leeds United vs Fulham
Whites back in Premier League action.

Fresh off their impressive 3-1 comeback win away to Derby County in the Emirates FA Cup Third Round last weekend, Leeds United return to West Yorkshire, where they will look to maintain their strong home record as they face Fulham.

At Pride Park, it was Wilfried Gnonto, Ao Tanaka and James Justin on the scoresheet in a game United largely controlled. Justin's goal was his first for the club and Tanaka's was Leeds' first by an Asian player in the FA Cup, but it was Gnonto's smashing strike that will be the most memorable, coming from neat build-up play and a smart Joël Piroe dummy.

The Whites have two brilliant wins against Chelsea and Crystal Palace, along with two strong draws against Liverpool and Manchester United in their last four matches at Elland Road. Since December, they have lost only once in the Premier League, coming last time out in cruel fashion against Newcastle.

Brenden Aaronson scored a brace in that game, with Premier League Player of the Month Dominic Calvert-Lewin netting as well. The pair are in fine form at the moment – the American has three goals in his last two league matches and the Englishman has eight in his last nine.

Daniel Farke's team are currently 16th in the table after the first 21 matches and now face the side they lost 1-0 to in London in September. The Cottagers currently sit ninth in the Premier League, nine points above Leeds.

After a run in the fall when they lost four straight, Fulham have found their form, taking 14 points from their last 18 available. This season, the Cottagers have beaten the likes of Chelsea, Sunderland and Brentford, and they are sure to present a real challenge for Daniel Farke's resurgent United.

The match will be the first chance to see new signing Facundo Buonanotte in action, who joined on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion until the end of the 2025/26 campaign. The Argentinian international arrives at Elland Road having made 125 first team appearances, spanning over the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, Europa League and international level.

Over the years, there have been many memorable encounters between the two sides. Leeds and Fulham have faced each other 64 times, with the Whites winning 26 and drawing 15 of those matches.

Most notably in recent times, United did the double over the Cottagers in the 2020-21 season, beating the visitors 4-3 at Elland Road before winning 2-1 in London thanks to goals from Patrick Bamford and Raphinha.

Action from Elland Road gets underway at 3pm and you can follow all the action across leedsunited.com, as well as on LUTV.

Tributes:
Ahead of kick-off, a minute of applause will take place to celebrate the life of club legend Terry Yorath, who sadly passed away on 7th January.

The Whites will wear black armbands as a mark of respect, with the matchday programme also dedicated to our former midfielder. The club are also pleased that Terry's family will be in attendance for the fixture.

In the 67th minute, supporters are encouraged to join a minute of applause to remember supporter Colin Wood. Devastatingly, Colin passed away ahead of our last fixture at Elland Road against Manchester United at the age of 67. Colin's family will also be in attendance for the match.

Thank you for your support.

Team news:
Ahead of the clash, Farke expects Sebastiaan Bornauw, Joe Rodon, Gabriel Gudmundsson and Jayden Bogle to be available for selection. Daniel James is well on his way to recovery in rehabilitation and shouldn't be too far away from team training.

How to follow:
Monthly audio subscribers around the world can listen to every minute of Saturday's fixture LIVE on LUTV. Bryn Law will be joined by Tony Dorigo on commentary. Pre-match build up begins at 2:30pm with Michael Bridges and Simon Grayson in the studio!

Important supporter information:
Discriminatory language or chanting, including tragedy chanting, is not acceptable, and you could be breaking the law. The club condemns this behaviour and has a zero-tolerance policy towards discrimination abuse of all kinds.

To report an incident, text LEEDS along with any relevant information including ticket details, your name and description of an incident to 60006. You will then receive an automated response which means that your report has been logged and will then be looked into.

Tough measures and sanctions are in place across all English football leagues to tackle dangerous and illegal behaviours within football grounds, and this involves but is not limited to, discriminatory behaviour, tragedy chanting, fans entering the pitch, the use of pyros and throwing objects.

The view from inside the camp:
Ahead of the game, centre-half duo Pascal Struijk and Sebastiaan Bornauw spoke exclusively to Premier League Productions.

"I feel like in the last few games, Fulham have been picking up form so it will definitely be a tough game," Struijk said.

"But they are coming to Elland Road, which we know is a very hard place to play, and we have been doing well at home. So, we want to take that form, the crowd, into this game and then we will see what happens."

"Elland Road is really nice, really electric. I would say Elland Road is in the moment and I think that is what I really, really like. As a player, you get fire in the eyes and that is what I like about our home crowd, it gives you so much energy," Bornauw added.



https://www.leedsunited.com/en/news/preview-leeds-united-vs-fulham-jan-26

Leeds United vs Fulham: Preview and Prediction
Leeds United will host Fulham at Elland Road on Saturday, with both teams eager to continue their solid runs of form.

Leeds United have been difficult to beat in recent weeks, and they have lost just one of their last six Premier League matches ahead of the game vs Fulham. However, the Whites have drawn quite a few matches, and they need to start picking up wins now. It will be interesting to see whether they can put on a strong performance against the London club at home.

On the other hand, Fulham are in impressive form right now. The Whites will certainly fancy their chances of getting a good result here. Marco Silva's men have picked up four wins and two draws from their last six Premier League matches, and their most recent Premier League outing was a 2-1 win over Chelsea.

The West London outfit are full of confidence and momentum right now. It remains to be seen whether they can pick up all three points against the relegation fodder. Meanwhile, both teams picked up 3-1 wins to progress to the FA Cup fourth round last weekend, and The Hard Tackle takes a closer look at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

[size=12t]Team News & Tactics[/size]

Leeds United
Daniel Farke could miss out on Sebastiaan Bornauw (adductor), while Daniel James remains sidelined with a hamstring issue. However, Jayden Bogle and Joe Rodon are fit and available to take on Fulham.

Leeds United will shape up in a 3-5-2 formation vs Fulham, with Lucas Perri in goal. In the back three, Pascal Struijk will start alongside Jaka Bijol, and Joe Rodon. Meanwhile, Jayden Bogle and Gabriel Gudmundsson will start as the wing-backs.

The wide duo will look to keep things tight at the back and hit the home side on the break. As for the midfield unit, Anton Stach and Ilia Gruev will provide defensive cover and physicality in the middle of the park.

Brenden Aaronson will add drive to the midfield alongside them. Finally, Dominic Calvert-Lewin will lead the line for Leeds United vs Fulham, with Noah Okafor lining up alongside him in the final third.

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Perri; Rodon, Bijol, Struijk; Bogle, Stach, Aaronson, Gruev, Gudmundsson; Calvert-Lewin, Okafor


Fulham
Rodrigo Muniz is out with a hamstring problem, and Kenny Tete has a muscular problem. Meanwhile, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Samuel Chukwueze are still at the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria. Joshua King faces a late fitness test to determine his availability.

Fulham will shape up in a 4-2-3-1 formation vs Leeds United, with Bernd Leno in goal. Timothy Castagne and Antonee Robinson will start as the full-backs here, and they will look to help the team at both ends of the pitch. Joachim Andersen will start alongside Jorge Cuenca in the central defensive partnership.

As for the midfield unit, Sander Berge and Sasa Lukic will add defensive cover and physicality in the middle of the park. They will look to break up the opposition's attacking moves and win the ball back for their side.

Emile Smith Rowe will start as the attacking midfielder here, and he will look to link the midfield with the attack. Kevin and Harry Wilson will start on the flanks, and they will look to add pace and flair to the side. Finally, Raul Jimenez will lead the line for Fulham vs Leeds United on Saturday.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno, Castagne, Andersen, Cuenca, Robinson; Berge, Lukic; Wilson, Smith Rowe, Kevin; Jimenez


Key Stats

    Leeds United are unbeaten in five of their last six matches in all competitions.
    Fulham are unbeaten in their last six matches in all competitions.
    Fulham have picked up four wins from their last six matches against Leeds United.
    14 goals have been scored in the last six matches between these two teams.
    Leeds United have scored at least two goals in their last three home matches against Fulham in all competitions.

Player to Watch

Harry Wilson
The Fulham attacker is in the form of his life. Wilson has done spectacularly in recent weeks, and he is our key player to watch out for. He will look to create opportunities for his teammates here and punish the Leeds United defence.

Wilson's winner against Chelsea last time out took his tally to 11 for Premier League goal involvements this season (G7 A4), his best return in a single campaign. Ten of those come since the start of November (A6 A4), with only Erling Haaland (12) and Igor Thiago (11) having more in that time. Wilson will need to produce a defining performance again if Fulham are to pick up all three points.

Prediction

Leeds United 2-2 Fulham
Both teams will be playing for the victory here. Neither side is defensive in their approach, and this could be an open game with plenty of chances. Leeds United have been involved in quite a few goal-laden matches lately, and this one is likely to be another entertaining affair. Both teams will get on the score sheet, but it will be difficult to separate them. They are likely to share the spoils in a high-scoring draw.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2026/01/16/leeds-united-vs-fulham-preview-and-prediction/

U21s: Fulham 2 United 2
Manchester United's Under-21s drew 2-2 with Fulham in Premier League 2 on Friday.

Shea Lacey opened the scoring from the penalty spot with just 14 minutes played, with the 18-year-old hauled down inside the area to also win the spot-kick.

Lacey then scored again to double our lead in the capital, firing home past Cottagers goalkeeper Dino Kaiser from close range.

Fulham hit back through Farhaan Ali Wahid at the end of the first half, with his low drive getting the better of Will Murdock.

Ali Wahid then scored again just past the hour mark, cutting inside onto his left foot to dispatch his second and draw the hosts level.

FIRST HALF
Seth Ridgeon had the game's first opportunity, shooting high and wide, failing to trouble Murdock in the opening stages.

A tidy switch from Jayce Fitzgerald brought on our first opportunity of the evening, with our no.10 locating Lacey. The Liverpudlian drove into the box and saw his effort saved, but success was soon to be around the corner.

Just a minute later, Fitzgerald again picked out Lacey, with this time the teenager winger brought down by Jonathan Esenga, with referee Harrison Blair pointing to the spot.

Lacey took on the responsibility himself at Motspur Park, sending Kaiser the wrong way to open our account.

The Cottagers then stepped up after failing behind, with Murdock called into action to deny Tom Olyott and Tom Wingate in quick succession.

But somewhat against the run of play, our young Reds had a second, with Lacey found brilliantly by Jacob Devaney. Taking the ball into his stride, the young forward made no mistake from close range, smashing home to double his tally and our lead.

Jaydan Kamason was the next to go close, with his strike palmed away after Malachi Sharpe had done well to carve open the opportunity.

But just before the break, Fulham hit back through Ali Wahid. Jayden Quashie did well to turn over possession, before his team-mate drove at United's backline and struck a low drive that flew past Murdock and into the bottom corner.

SECOND HALF
As the second half began, Devaney was again orchestrating play from midfield, spraying possession from left to right with ease as Fulham tried to contain our skipper.

His latest pass found Lacey in acres of space, with Macauley Zepa unable to stop the England Under-20 international, who saw his latest effort saved by Kaiser.

United came forward again in search of a third, with Lacey once again at the heart of it all. His next shot cannoned back off the woodwork, with almost eery similarities to his shot against Burnley a few weeks ago.

Shortly after, however, Fulham found a leveller through danger man Ali Wahid. Zepa's run forward opened up the space for December's Premier League 2 Player of the Month, who shot low and hard, beating Murdock at his near post.

Tom Curtis must of thought his side should have gone ahead with 78 minutes on the clock, with Tyler Fletcher's pass brilliantly finding Scanlon. The Gibraltar star appeared to round Fulham's goalkeeper, but still couldn't find the net, with Gabriele Biancheri also unable to score on the follow-up.

A whole host of changes disrupted the flow of the game inside the final stages, with Chido Obi replacing Lacey, as Biancheri operated in a wider position from the right of our attack.

Eddy Nsasi also blocked a great opportunity for the Reds in stoppage time, preventing Yuel Helafu's pass from finding Chido Obi with his hand, earning himself a caution in the process.

Scanlon's resulting free-kick came to no avail, with both sides forced to settle for a point each.

MATCH DETAILS
Fulham: Kaiser; De Jesus, Nsasi, Walters, Esenga (Zepa 46); Chingwaro, Quashie; Olyott (Casey 67), Ridgeon (Cavell 80), Wingate; Ali Wahid.

Subs not used: Mayer, Cooke.

Booked: Esenga, Cavell.

Goals: Ali Wahid 45+1, 64.

United: Murdock; Kamason (Helafu 67), Aljofree, Munro (Armer 60), Leon; Devaney, T.Fletcher; Lacey (Scanlon 60), Fitzgerald, Sharpe (Obi 60); Biancheri.

Subs not used: Heath.

Booked: Fletcher, Lacey, Fitzgerald.

Goals: Lacey 14, 22.



https://www.manutd.com/en/news/detail/match-report-from-fulham-vs-man-utd-under-21s-in-premier-league-2-16-january-2026

Leeds United vs Fulham – Preview, Lineups, Score Prediction
Fixture: Leeds United vs Fulham
Competition: Premier League
Kick-off: 17th January, 15:00 UK time

Leeds United welcome Fulham to Elland Road for a Premier League clash which on paper could be tight.

The Whites' seven-match unbeaten run ended with their loss to Newcastle United, as they threw away a 3-2 lead by conceding twice in injury time.

The loss highlighted both the strengths and weaknesses of Daniel Farke's methods. While allowing the side to get into positions to gain points, it also spotlighted how exacting it requires his players to be, for it requires all to be switched on throughout the 90 minutes, week-in, week-out.

Brenden Aaronson handled the ball while rushing out to deal with a cross and tired legs meant that Aaronson was within the box when the incoming cross struck his outstretched hand. Newcastle dragged themselves back to level terms with the penalty, before further capitalising on the stroke of the full-time whistle with a sucker punch to leave Leeds shellshocked, and just like that the Whites had to make the return journey with nothing to show for their efforts.

Leeds might have been left cold after being denied a rare away win, but they can look forward to the comfort of warmer climes at Elland Road when they take on Fulham. With the FA Cup last weekend offering a chance to rest players, while there has been a full week to prepare, one former Leeds star feels that the lead up to the game has been perfect for the Whites.

A big positive too is Aaronson's form, leading to the American being dubbed a 'proper manager's player' by a former boss.

Opponents Fulham are undefeated in six games in the Premier League, interspersed by a EFL Cup quarter-final loss to Newcastle. It is the longest such run, outside of Liverpool and Manchester City, in the division.

The Cottagers have scored in each of their last ten Premier League games, only twice enjoying longer runs in the division in 2024 when the run lasted for 15 games, and in 2007, for eleven games. Fulham have opened the scoring in seven of those games, winning six and drawing one, while goalscoring form goes some way towards explaining their present form, with opponents being forced to respond.

Fulham have also earned nine points to goals scored, and dropped three to goals conceded, in the final ten minutes of Premier League games this season. It has left them a joint league-high six points better off, level with Brighton. Leeds will need the home support most when Fulham are at their lethal best.

Both clubs progressed through in the FA Cup, picking up 3-1 wins against their respective opponents in Championship sides, Derby County and Middlesbrough, in their third round fixtures. Farke and Marco Silva will be glad that their sides came away from those clashes relatively unscathed, with only Sebastiaan Bornauw picking up a minor issue.

Fulham boss Silva has insisted he is not surprised by how Leeds have picked up, as he saw early signs in the season, while also noting the change in Farke's system. The Cottagers are without Kenny Tete, while it is unclear if Josh King will be available.

Sean Longstaff returned to action against Derby County after seven weeks out and will be a welcome addition in midfield for Farke, while Dan James is not far off returning to team training. Nigeria's strong run in the Africa Cup of Nations means Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze and Calvin Bassey will be unavailable for a while longer for Silva.

Recent Form (league)
Leeds United: LDDDW
Fulham: WDDWW

Key Men

Leeds United
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has netted eight goals in nine matches and his next goal will see him reach double figures in a top-flight campaign for only the third time after the 2020/21 and 2019/20 seasons. Calvert-Lewin has added motivation to do well against Fulham.

Anton Stach has initiated 23 open-play sequences that have resulted in a shot in the Premier League this season, with only Declan Rice with 24 having more. The German has also made 24 high turnovers this season, five of which have resulted in a shot, as only Nico Gonzalez and Joao Gomes have made more of the mistake. Stach will be pivotal in Leeds scoring through his passing or pressing.

Brenden Aaronson's handball led to his earlier performance and two goals against Newcastle unravelling. Aaronson will want to focus on the positives, of which there have been plenty recently, and continue on his rich vein of form.

Fulham
Harry Wilson whipped in a sumptuous first-time cross with the outside of his boot to put the ball on a plate for Kevin to score against Middlesbrough, to go with his beautiful equaliser. Wilson's winner against Chelsea took him to eleven Premier League goal involvements for this season, with seven goals and four assists, which is a personal best. Ten of those have come since the start of November, and only Erling Haaland with 12 and Igor Thiago with eleven have more in that time. Wilson is playing like a man-possessed and might prove to be instrumental in the result of this game.

Raul Jimenez looks to be back to his bullying and harrying best. Jimenez might prove to be a thorn in the side of Leeds' defence and the home faithful.

Emile Smith-Rowe has become an able supporting act in Fulham's attack. Smith-Rowe, like Wilson, has finally begun to fulfil his potential and that does not bode well for Leeds.

Match Prediction
Leeds have been reliant on results at home to counteract their ordinary away record. Pressure had resultantly been cranked up on the side and Farke, but the Whites have earned themselves some breathing room.

West Ham United trail by eight points and do not look like they are getting anywhere in a hurry. Consequentially every game which might have seemed like a must-win, will now be viewed through a more empathetic lens; performances can be appreciated, and a draw will feel like a point gained rather than two lost.

Silva will also be wary of putting too much pressure on his squad, with countless examples of leaner squads falling at the last hurdle in seasons past. Fulham will want to take it game-by-game and let their performance dictate their result.

Both sides will have mutual respect for each other and either side is likely to consider a draw a respectable result before kick-off. Unless one team has a dramatic fall-off on the day, the feeling will persist when the final whistle is blown.

Inside Futbol Score Prediction
Leeds United 1-1 Fulham

Where To Watch?
Leeds United vs Fulham will not be available to watch live in the UK, but can be followed via each club's respective website.



https://insidefutbol.com/2026/01/16/leeds-united-vs-fulham-preview-lineups-score-prediction/703536/

West Ham plot shock double Arsenal deal plus Fulham 'not giving up' on injured target
The latest Premier League transfer rumours - with news from West Ham, Arsenal, Fulham & Nottingham Forest.

Another day of rumour and gossip is in the books, and 3 Added Minutes are once again here with our regular morning round-up of some of the biggest new Premier League transfer stories to help you keep track of it all – and we're starting with a story which should interest fans of both West Ham and Arsenal.

According to TeamTalk, relegation-threatened West Ham are "hoping" to agree a double deal which would see two of Arsenal's players make the short move across the capital to the London Stadium – wonderkid winger Ethan Nwaneri and utility man Oleksandr Zinchenko.

West Ham have apparently "made contact" already over a deal for the 18-year-old Nwaneri and while their initial enquiries are said to have been "rebuffed," it seems that the Hammers still hope that Arsenal can be persuaded to let their young star leave the Emirates – presumably on loan, although that isn't actually specified in the report.

They've also "emerged as suitors" for Zinchenko, who is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest but may have his stay at the City Ground cut short. West Ham "have yet to make contact" with the Ukrainian's representatives with his situation up in the air, but want to bring him in as a left-back if they can.

The 3AM Verdict: Granted, this isn't really a double deal as they seem to be quite separate negotiations. The sourcing for the Nwaneri story is more solid, we suspect, although all signals from the Emirates so far suggest that Mikel Arteta doesn't want him to leave this winter. The Zinchenko side of the story is more speculative, but isn't implausible if Arsenal and Forest can come to an arrangement.

Fulham 'not giving up' on primary target despite injury
Over to West London now for a story from Sky Sports, who allege that Fulham have "not given up" on their attempts to sign PSV forward and key transfer target Ricardo Pepi – despite the fact that the American will be sidelined by injury for the next two months.

A broken arm will keep the 22-year-old out for a while but Fulham, who tried to sign Pepi in the summer as well, are "still keen" and are "maintaining discussions" with his current club in the hopes of reaching an agreement.

It's not clear whether such a deal could still take place in the current transfer window, but it is stated that Fulham are "looking at strengthening up front this month." Other potential targets are said to include Brighton's Evan Ferguson, currently on loan at AS Roma.

The 3AM Verdict: While Fulham's interest in Pepi is very well established at this stage, we struggle to imagine that they would sign him to fill a need when he won't be able to play for a big chunk of the second half of the season. We suspect that negotiations – which didn't seem to be going well anyway given that PSV appear to want to keep Pepi around – will be pushed back to the summer. Brighton also seem keen for Ferguson to complete his loan spell at Roma.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/west-ham/west-ham-arsenal-nwaneri-fulham-pepi-transfer-rumours-5479240

Leeds join three-way chase for £40m-rated Wolves star, Tammy Abraham makes his preferred move clear - and Crystal Palace and Fulham chase forwards: TRANSFER WINDOW WATC
The transfer window is open and here are today's latest developments from Daily Mail Sport's Simon Jones, including three Premier League clubs chasing a Wolves star, as well as Crystal Palace and Fulham pursuing strikers.

[size=12]Leeds join chase for £40m-rated Wolves star [/size]
Leeds United have made an enquiry for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Crystal Palace, who anticipate an offer from Juventus for Jean-Philippe Mateta, and Nottingham Forest are among the other clubs to have asked about £40million-rated Larsen.

Leeds are at their limit with PSR so may have to sell to facilitate any bid for Larsen.

Leeds winger Jack Harrison arrived in Florence yesterday to seal his loan move to Fiorentina. There is an option to make it permanent for £6m.

Celtic are also interested in Leeds striker Joel Piroe but he is looking to stay.

Fulham maintain interest in injured PSV forward
Fulham are maintaining dialogue over PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi despite him undergoing surgery on a broken arm and being ruled out for seven weeks.

Fulham made an offer around £22million which was rejected, and PSV insist it would take more than £30m to prise away the striker. PSV hold interest in Wolves forward Hwang-hee Chan.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-15471567/Leeds-40m-rated-Wolves-star-Tammy-Abraham-Crystal-Palace-Fulham-forwards-TRANSFER-WINDOW-WATCH.html

Leeds United v Fulham: Daniel Farke will not be blackmailed as he twists in transfer window
Leeds United v Fulham Daniel Farke deciding to twist rather than stick has opened the door to more Elland Road departures but the Leeds United manager has warned his players no one can "blackmail" their way out of the door with unprofessional behaviour.

Eight points clear of the relegation zone, the Whites are doing okay, thank you, ahead of Saturday's visit of Fulham, with Daniel James the only player injured and due back in weeks rather than months.

Avoiding relegation this season will be enough to make it a success, but neither manager Farke nor his club's fanbase are minded to settle.

Deciding it would be a dereliction of duty to simply stay with what he had, Farke has loaned Argentinian playmaker Facundo Buonanotte from Brighton and Hove Albion, and interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers centre-forward Jorgen Strand Larsen has been mooted.

The Norwegian would not come cheap, and with squad size and harmony alongside profit and sustainability rules in Farke's thinking, someone else might have to go. But only on his terms, he insists.

"If a player is not happy due to the amount of minutes and behaves professionally, we are sometimes open to listen to their wishes," he explains. "If a player who is perhaps not in the best position and behaves unprofessionally tries to blackmail and force his way out, I would never let him go because it's the wrong sign.

"It sends the message you just have to behave stupidly and then you'll get your wish.

"But if a player has not much gametime and behaves like a top-class professional, I will always listen to his wishes. We would not be pro-active from our side (in pushing for a transfer), but if from the player's side he behaves in a top-class way is really professional and has a wish not to be part of our group, we are also open to listen."

It is no empty threat. Ask Willy Gnonto, still at Leeds two-and-a-half years after throwing his toys out of the pram in an attempt to leave. Ask Todd Cantwell or Emi Buendia, who he kept at Norwich City.

Simply standing still is dangerous too in such a fast-moving league.

"It's our responsibility," says Farke. "We're working in the best league in the world and if we would fall asleep and just close our eyes, it would not be the right choice.

"You always have to weigh up options. In the position we are in – Leeds United, playing in the Premier League, playing attractive and successful football – I could sign five new strikers, five new midfield players, five new wingers, five new assistant coaches every day. So many people want to work for us.

"If it doesn't go in your favour, sometimes you have to change the whole set-up, the whole leadership within the group, the whole hierarchy within the team.

"If everyone gets the feeling we're in a healthy position it would be madness to change the key positions, to sell an important player or bring characters in who can disrupt the whole energy or the whole direction of the team.

"Sometimes you want to disrupt (when it's going in) the wrong direction, but not if everyone has got the feeling we're moving in the right direction. So we're pretty careful and picky in what we do.

"We all have the feeling we're on a good path and in these terms we don't want to risk it but to fall asleep, to close your eyes and be scared of decision-making would also not be the correct decision."

Harry Gray has been allowed to join Rotherham United on a "perfect first loan", however, and winger Jack Harrison is on the verge of temporarily signing for Fiorentina.

"For Harry right now it was easy," says Farke. "In the summer I wanted to give him the chance to consistently train with the first team. It's not healthy to send a young player on loan without having trained for a proper period with the first team – if he's ready for first-team training. He didn't have to much gametime with the first team (none this season) and it was the right moment.

"One thing is for sure, we definitely won't move a key player because we want to achieve our targets."

Equally, even if money were limitless – spoiler alert, it is not – there would be a danger in too big a squad.

"I'm never afraid of quality and also numbers of quality," stresses Farke. "You need competition.

"On the other hand, you have to make sure that the group is not too big and the players who are there also feel trusted and backed.

"Sometimes it could be the case that too many options are not beneficial for the team spirit and also for the self-confidence of the players. If you always get the feeling, 'If I don't deliver in one game and then I have to wait for eight weeks on the sidelines,' it could sometimes be a burden on the shoulders of the players.

"We won't risk our spirit and our togetherness because this is one of our major skills."

It is a balancing act but playing it safe is not an option – not when you are trying to keep up with upwardly mobile clubs such as Fulham.

"They're a really good football side – many threats in the offence, lots of vertical (direct) play, lots of players who can deliver end products, really good quality," says Farke.

"Perhaps in the beginning of the season they didn't have the results they deserved but now they have translated really good performances into impressive results."



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united/leeds-united-v-fulham-daniel-farke-will-not-be-blackmailed-as-he-twists-in-transfer-window-5478900

Everton, Sunderland and Fulham chasing Antonio Conte attacker – Transfer loadin
Sunderland and Everton are among the clubs in the picture to sign Napoli's Noa Lang in the winter market.

That what Il Mattino are reporting. They cover Sunderland and Everton interest when discussing the Netherlands international's situation.

On Friday, we covered claims from Italy that Leeds United have made an approach to sign Lang in January. The Whites have followed the 26-year-old since he was at Club Brugge.

Sunderland, Fulham and Everton have now joined the Whites.

Il Mattino go over players who could leave the Serie A winners in this window. This includes Lang, who has caught the attention of a few clubs.

Lang joined Antonio Conte's side from PSV Eindhoven in July 2025 and signed a contract until 2030. The winger impressed for the Eredivisie side last season, scoring 14 goals and contributing 12 assists from 44 matches.

This convinced the Naples club to spend a reported €25m to sign him. The Dutchman is yet to replicate his PSV form in Italy yet. To put it in context, he managed a goal and two assists from 898 minutes from 21 matches so far this season.

Everton, Sunderland, Everton line up for deal
Il Mattino state the attacker is 'on the way out' and Southampton, Everton and Fulham are pursuing him. Since arriving, Noa Lang hasn't always had an easy relationship with Antonio Conte.

The two have clashed on occasion this season, but Lang isn't the only player in that situation. Conte again wants something of a renewal this month, and Napoli are trying to please their manager.

According to the newspaper, Sunderland, Fulham and Everton are pursuing the former PSV man. Napoli are willing to sanction a move if they were to receive a tempting offer.

Noa Lang loan move available
The Italian champions are seeking a loan move for the player.

This should certainly make it affordable for Sunderland, Fulham, Everton or any other club. The report further adds Napoli selling him this month also can't be ruled out.

Il Mattino claim unnamed clubs from Turkey are also chasing Lang. Whether the English clubs are genuinely keen or are being used to put pressure on other suitors remains to be seen.

Noa Lang is an exciting player when in full flight, however, it's getting him to that level and keeping him there which has been the issue.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/everton-sunderland-and-fulham-chasing-antonio-conte-attacker-transfer-loading/

'In my opinion...' – Marco Silva makes honest Leeds United admission ahead of Fulham clash
Leeds United continued their impressive start to the New Year with a win over Derby County in the FA Cup. Daniel Farke will be pleased that his side managed to grab the result despite going down in the first half.

Some fans were sceptical about the team getting anything from the game as they knew Farke would rotate the lineup. But that game showed that Leeds had strength in depth as many of the players performed to expectations.

The Whites left Derby with a 3-1 win and are through to the next round of the competition

Fulham boss makes admission ahead of Leeds United clash
This weekend will see Leeds United clash with Fulham; it was a tense game when both teams met at Craven Cottage earlier in the season. That game was decided by a late Gabriel Gudmundsson own goal. This time around, Silva admits that his side will be up against a much improved opponent:

"Big one, tough one and then, to be honest, in a tough place to go, but a lovely place to enjoy a typical English and Premier League game.

"They reacted very well in my opinion, but if you look even a bit back to the beginning of the season, sometimes they were not achieving the good results, but performance-wise, you could feel it.

"We played against them early in the season. You can feel that the processes are there, and the idea was there as well.

"Of course, it was a tight game for us – and some of the others that they lost or they didn't achieve a good result – you're always feeling that they were close to achieving something and to be consistent and to get good results.

"Even if in the last away Premier League game they lost in the last minute because, 90 minutes they were winning the game away from home. The run has been very, very good for them."

Marco Silva's side will be a stern test on Saturday
Saturday's game will definitely not be a breeze for Daniel Farke's men; the London side are unbeaten in their last six games in all competitions. Leeds will be hoping to bounce back from their last Premier League defeat to Newcastle.

Home advantage will come into play as the Whites have earned most of their points at Elland Road; Fulham do not have the best of records on the road either, which could make it a very entertaining clash between these two sides.



https://www.theleedspress.com/in-my-opinion-marco-silva-makes-honest-leeds-united-admission-ahead-of-fulham-clash-48434/

Leeds United Team News and Predicted Lineup vs Fulham for January 17
Leeds United return to Premier League action with a winnable home fixture against Fulham, where they have the opportunity to go 11 points clear of the relegation zone with a victory. Daniel Farke's side recovered from a goal down to win 3-1 against Derby County in the FA Cup last time out, and their focus now turns to further securing their top flight status. Here is our Leeds United team news and predicted lineup.

Leeds United Team News and Predicted Lineup For Must-Win Home Clash vs Fulham
How Leeds Have Lined Up Recently

Backup goalkeeper Karl Darlow came into the side for Leeds' FA Cup victory over Derby, but is likely to be replaced by Lucas Perri for the Fulham game, despite the Brazilian's recent struggles. Darlow conceded from the one shot on target he faced against the Rams, so did not exactly make himself undroppable for the next game.

Leeds's back-three of Joe Rodon, Pascal Struijk, and Jaka Bijol have all been outstanding performers this season, and the break from league action allowed both Rodon and Struijk a well-earned rest against Derby. Captain Ethan Ampadu and Sebastiaan Bournauw were selected in their place alongside Bijol.

James Justin, who came off the bench to score his first goal for the club, and fellow wing-back Gabriel Gudmundsson were also rested against the Rams, with both having played three games in the space of a week. With Jayden Bogle likely to make a return to the squad to take on Marco Silva's side, Farke faces a slight selection headache at right wing-back, where Justin has been impressive in the 25-year-old's absence.

Operating in a 3-4-1-2 system with no conventional full-backs in the side, Farke opted for Willy Gnonto and Jack Harrison as makeshift wing-backs/wide midfielders.

In midfield, Ilia Greuv started alongside Ao Tanaka, with the Japan international firing in Leeds' second goal from close range. Sean Longstaff also stepped up his recovery from a considerable injury layoff, coming off the bench in the 73rd minute to get valuable minutes into his legs.

Up front, United lined up with Joel Piroe slightly behind a two-man strike force of Noah Okafor and Lukas Nmecha, allowing star man Dominic Calvert-Lewin to rest and recharge. A much-needed rest was also given to Brenden Aaronson, who has arguably been Leeds' best player over the last few weeks.

Leeds Recent Form and Tactics
Farke's tactical switch to a rather unusual 3-4-1-2 shape against Derby seemed largely borne out of the necessity of resting his wing-backs, so it is highly likely that United will line up in their typical 3-5-2 system against Fulham. A home fixture against a mid-table side, even one in as good form as Fulham, will be the sort of game Leeds need to win to shore up their status as a Premier League outfit.

The Whites have won 73% of their points this season at home, meaning that they are the team with the highest proportion of points won in their own backyard in the league. Meanwhile, Fulham have earned just 35% of their points this season away from Craven Cottage, suggesting that the odds are firmly in favour of Farke's men.

Leeds United Team News
One possible addition to Leeds' squad to take on Fulham is new signing Facundo Buonanotte, with the Argentinian arriving on loan to add additional creativity to their attacking options.

In his pre-match press conference, Farke said injury doubts Bogle, Rodon, Gudmundsson, and Sebastiaan Bournauw are all 'back in contention' for the game.

This leaves Daniel James as the solitary Leeds player sidelined at the moment.

Leeds United Predicted Lineup

GK: Lucas Perri

CB: Joe Rodon

CB: Jaka Bijol

CB: Pascal Struijk

RWB: James Justin

LWB: Gabriel Gudmundsson

CM: Ethan Ampadu

CM: Anton Stach

CM: Brenden Aaronson

ST: Dominic Calvert-Lewin

ST: Noah Okafor



https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2026/01/17/leeds-united-team-news-and-predicted-lineup-fulham/

Erik ten Hag to copy Marco Silva with 'surprise' new job after Bayer Leverkusen disaster
Erik ten Hag's new job has come as a surprise - but he could be following Marco Silva's pathway to rebuild his reputation.

That is the verdict from European football broadcaster Andy Brassell, who believes his new role may have been the only one that's available.

Ten Hag was officially unveiled as FC Twente's new technical director this week, returning to the club where he made his name as a player.

The former Manchester United boss had been out of work since his brutal axing by Bayer Leverkusen in September.

Ten Hag was sacked by the Bundesliga club just three games into his tenure, which came less than a year after his Old Trafford dismissal.

The Dutchman was shortlisted for the Wolves job before Rob Edwards emerged as the club's top candidate to replace Vítor Pereira.

Ten Hag also emerged as a candidate to replace John Heitinga at old team Ajax, but has now swapped the dugout for the boardroom.

The 55-year-old will join Twente from February 1, but he will not begin his technical director role until the start of next season.

Ten Hag's surprising new job
Trans Euro Express pundit Brassell exclusively told talkSPORT.com: "It's really curious, Ten Hag taking this job as Technical Director of FC Twente, because he's talked with teams about taking other jobs.

"Of course, he talked with Ajax about going there as coach, and because he didn't feel that the right sporting management was in place, he didn't take those jobs.

"So, it's interesting that he's put himself forward to become the guy who he wanted to work with for someone else, I suppose."

Brassell continued: "He's always felt like a really authentic coach to me.

"So, that doesn't necessarily mean he'll translate into being a sporting director.

"And some of the best sporting directors we've seen in Europe have either never played the game to any sort of standards.

"For me, it feels as if Ten Hag has taken this job. Not necessarily because it's his calling, but because it's the job that's available at the moment.

"Maybe it'll help him. Maybe it'll add another string to his bow. Maybe it'll enable him to take on a job that he wants in the future.

"And if he doesn't have the perfect CEO and sporting director there, he will feel that he can do the job anyway.

"I think if you look at someone like Marco Silva. Going back earlier in his career, he was a sporting director before he was a coach."

'Marco Silva understands angles of the game'
The now-Fulham boss became Estoril's Director of Football in 2011 after retiring as a player, before leading the team to promotion.

Brassell continued: "Then he went on to build his reputation at Sporting from there.

"And so, he understands angles of the game that not necessarily every head coach, slash manager, understands.

"So, maybe in that sense, it'll be beneficial to Eric ten Hag. But it's a little bit of a surprise for me that he took that job."

Over a decade after his stint as a director of football, Silva is now one of the most accomplished managers in the Premier League.

Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno backed his manager to get a job with a 'big club' during an exclusive interview with talkSPORT last month.

talkSPORT understands Fulham have been weighing up Silva's future as tensions mount behind the scenes at Craven Cottage.

The Portuguese coach has been reluctant to sign a new deal, and, as it stands, he will be a free agent at the end of the season.

The 48-year-old has been Fulham's boss since 2021 and last season led them to their highest ever Premier League points tally with 54 - which saw them finish the campaign in 11th place.



https://talksport.com/football/3910017/erik-ten-hag-marco-silva-job-twente-manchester-united/

 

Sky Sports: Fulham still interested in move to sign Champions League striker
Fulham's pursuit of Ricardo Pepi reflects ambition and reality colliding

There is a moment in every transfer window when intent becomes visible. Not in the loud proclamations or the recycled rumours, but in the number attached to a bid. Fulham's rejected £26 million offer for Ricardo Pepi was one such moment: a statement of belief, ambition and urgency, quietly rebuffed by a club with little interest in compromise.

PSV Eindhoven's refusal to entertain the proposal, first reported by The Athletic and then on Sky Sports, speaks to Pepi's evolving status. He is no longer a prospect being shaped. He is a striker already performing at the centre of a team with domestic dominance and European aspirations.

For Fulham, this was not speculative curiosity. It was a targeted attempt to accelerate a project that has learned how thin the margins can be in the Premier League.

(https://eplindex.com/wp-content/uploads/FBCharts-Ricardo-Pepi.png)

Ricardo Pepi's rise from promise to production
Pepi's journey to this moment has been deliberate rather than meteoric. Since joining PSV Eindhoven in 2023, he has developed into a forward defined by clarity rather than chaos. His movement is economical, his finishing instinctive, his link-up play increasingly assured.

Across 89 appearances for the Dutch champions, Pepi has recorded 36 goals and eight assists, numbers that suggest consistency rather than hot streaks. This season, however, the production has accelerated. Averaging more than a goal per game across all competitions, he has become integral to a PSV side that has surged to an 11-point lead at the summit of the Eredivisie.

There is context here. PSV are not under pressure to sell. Pepi's contract runs until 2030, and his output has arrived precisely as the club have tightened their grip domestically. In that sense, Fulham were not merely bidding for a striker. They were bidding for leverage, and PSV do not currently need any.

PSV Eindhoven's negotiating strength in January
January is an unforgiving month for buying clubs. Selling sides rarely move unless compelled by circumstance, and PSV Eindhoven have none of the usual motivations. Financial stability, squad balance and title momentum all favour patience.

Pepi's value to PSV extends beyond goals. His physical presence allows them to vary attacking patterns, his pressing fits a system built on control, and his maturity belies his age. To weaken that structure mid-season would require an offer that compensates not just in money, but in strategic certainty.

That is why the rejection was swift. Fulham may return with an improved bid, but PSV's stance suggests that any progress would require a fee that acknowledges Pepi's centrality rather than his market age.

Fulham's striker dilemma and Premier League arithmetic
Fulham's interest is understandable. Raúl Jiménez remains effective but is entering the final stretch of his contract, while Rodrigo Muniz's season has been disrupted by injury, limiting him to just four Premier League starts. Goals, as ever, are both currency and insurance.

Marco Silva's side have built stability through structure and restraint, but survival alone is no longer the ceiling. Pepi represents the kind of forward who could bridge phases: someone capable of immediate contribution while still carrying long-term resale value.

Yet this is where Premier League arithmetic becomes uncomfortable. A £26 million bid, sizeable by Fulham's historical standards, still falls short in a market shaped by scarcity and timing. January inflates prices, and Pepi's form inflates expectations further.

Transfer window implications beyond Craven Cottage
This episode is less about failure than positioning. Fulham have signalled to the market that they are prepared to invest assertively in the right profile. PSV Eindhoven have reinforced their status as a club that develops talent without urgency to sell.

For Pepi himself, the rejection is unlikely to be a setback. If anything, it validates his progress. Interest from England arrives not as speculation, but as recognition of output and reliability.

Whether Fulham return with a revised offer remains to be seen. What is clear is that this pursuit sits at the intersection of ambition and reality, where modern transfers are increasingly decided. Not by noise, but by leverage.



https://eplindex.com/141510/sky-sports-fulham-still-interested-in-move-to-sign-champions-league-striker.html