Done deal! Fulham sign William Kvist on loan from Stuttgart to make his dreams come true
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Denmark midfielder William Kvist will be in a Fulham shirt for the rest of the season (Picture: AFP/Getty Images)
Fulham have signed William Kvist on loan for the rest of the season – with a view to a permanent move – and he couldn't be happier
The Denmark international midfielder comes in from Stuttgart and manager Rene Meulensteen will be hoping he adds some steel in the middle of the park as they fight relegation.
The 28-year-old, renowned for his long throws, is looking forward to teaming up once more with former Copenhagen team-mate of Brede Hangeland – who has told him good things about life at Craven Cottage.
He also says he's been dreaming of a Fulham move for some time and the club tweeted his delight at making the switch.
And Kvist said: 'Of course I've heard a lot of good things from Brede and it's been a target of mine to come here so I'm delighted to be here really.
'The Premier League is the biggest league in the world. I've played in the Bundesliga which is also a really nice league, but this is the biggest challenge you could get as a footballer – this is the motherland of football. When I was a child I used to just watch English football on television so it's amazing being here.'
He could go straight into the squad for the game against Southampton but admitted he is short of match fitness.
He said: 'The head coach will see if I'm fit and able to play – I think I am, although I haven't played for Stuttgart this year, but I'm feeling fit and motivated.'
Kvist's arrival is a boost for Fulham fans, who are set to lose Adel Taarabt to Ac Milan on loan and possibly Dimitar Berbatov to Tottenham.
They hope for further good news before the deadline day window closes, with Greece striker Kostas Mitroglou linked with an £11m move.
http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/30/done-deal-fulham-sign-william-kvist-on-loan-from-stuttgart-to-make-his-dreams-come-true-4283793/? (http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/30/done-deal-fulham-sign-william-kvist-on-loan-from-stuttgart-to-make-his-dreams-come-true-4283793/?)
Shed a tear Fulham fans, Adel Taraabt is leaving the Cottage for AC Milan
Fulham fans, wipe your eyes. Adel Taarabt is leaving the club for AC Milan.
The Morocco attacking midfielder has reached an agreement with i Rossoneri to spend the remainder of the season in Italy on loan.
The move will see Taarabt terminate his season-long loan at Fulham and sign for Milan for the remainder of the season.
Word out of Craven Cottage is that the 24-year-old has fallen out of favor with the not-so-shocking accusations being that he has lost his focus. Fulham are therefore happy to cancel his loan deal, which would normally mean the player returns to his home club, Queens Park Rangers. Problem is, QPR boss Harry Redknapp wants nothing to do with Taarabt and is happy to send him packing.
The double loan move doesn't come at odds with FIFA rules, which stipulate that a player cannot play for more than two clubs in a season. Having never appeared for Rangers before moving to Fulham, Taarabt is free to go on-loan to Milan.
The highly-talented, mentally erratic and slightly overweight Taraabt has made 12 Premier League appearances for the Cottagers this year, starting seven contests. His zero goals and one assist won't be missed by Fulham, who now that they have shed the dead weight can ensure playing time for more positive and effective figures like the Ashkan Dejagah, Pajtim Kasami and, hopefully, 17-year-old Moussa Dembele.
http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2014/01/30/shed-a-tear-fulham-fans-adel-taraabt-is-leaving-the-cottage-for-ac-milan/? (http://prosoccertalk.nbcsports.com/2014/01/30/shed-a-tear-fulham-fans-adel-taraabt-is-leaving-the-cottage-for-ac-milan/?)
Woodrow back at Cottagers
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Cauley Woodrow: Back at Craven Cottage
Southend have suffered a blow with the news Fulham have recalled on-loan striker Cauley Woodrow.
The 19-year-old has returned to his parent club, who have been disappointed with the number of games he has started of late and he could now be set for a loan move elsewhere.
Woodrow made a total of 22 appearances for Southend having arrived in Essex at the start of September, scoring four goals, however only 10 of those were starts and just two of which since mid-November.
The teenager was due to remain at Roots Hall until the end of the season.
Manager Phil Brown told the club's official website: "It is a shame to lose Cauley but we were always under the control of a Premier League club.
"Cauley scored a couple of important league goals, against Exeter and of course the winner against AFC Wimbledon.
"We felt he was developing well as a footballer in and around a first team.
"He was a great professional and we hope he enjoys a successful career in the game."
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/9141282? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/9141282?)
Cole & Tunnicliffe targeted by Muelensteen's Fulham
Fulham have reportedly placed bids for Manchester United duo Ryan Tunnicliffe and Larnell Cole. René Meulensteen's side are looking to rebuild during this transfer window, in which they will reinforce and avoid a relegation battle at the end of the season.
Tunnicliffe has recently returned from Sky Bet Championship side Ipswich Town from a loan spell, in which he has done well to adapt to first team football. Cole has stayed with United this season playing form Warren Joyce's U21′s. Both players are decent footballers, but I do have my doubts whether both would make it al Old Trafford.
Cole, 20, has featured once for United's first team in the League Cup during the 2011/12 season in the 3-0 victory over Leeds United. Tunnicliffe, 21, has made the first team on two occasions, both in the League Cup in the 2012/13 season, a 2-1 victory over Newcastle United at Old Trafford, then in the next round a 5-4 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Both players have not represented their club in the Barclays Premier League though.
Fulham hope deals for the two midfielders could be sorted before Friday's 23:00 GMT deadline. We will bring you more information as we have it.
http://mufclatest.com/cole-tunnicliffe-targeted-by-muelensteens-fulham/? (http://mufclatest.com/cole-tunnicliffe-targeted-by-muelensteens-fulham/?)
Taarabt: "It's an honour, I can't wait to play for Milan"
ADEL TAARBT has landed in Italy today and is set to become the 4th signing of this January mercato, coming on loan.
Milan are ready to sign another player as after Keisuke Honda, Adil Rami and Michael Essien, the 24-year-old Adel Taarabt will join the squad of Clarence Seedorf and will try to help them reach a Serie A place that leads to a European competition.
Clarence Seedorf seems to believe that Taarabt can add something to his attack. At first Milan had tried to exchange him with 31-year-old Cristian Zaccardo but after that fell through, Milan decided to take Taarabt anyways and he's landed today.
Video: Welcome to Milan, Essien!
Pazzini: "It's a great day for me and for the team"
"I am very happy. It's an honour to play at the strongest team in Italy. I've already spoken with Seedorf and he told me what he expects from me. I can't wait to play," the Moroccan, whose loan spell at Fulham has been cut short, said at the Linate airport on Thursday. "My role? I like to play in the role of the attacking midfielder but can also play on the right or left wing.
"Balotelli? I don't know him personally but it's a great honour for me to play with him. I'm a player who likes to attack, score goals, make assists, dribble. My jersey number? I've worn number 7 and 10 in the past, but I'll take whichever number is available. A message to the Milan fans? I'll always try to give my best, and let's hope that we'll have a good time together. Flavio Briatore? He was my president at QPR and we have a great relationship. I'm sure that he's happy that I'm at Milan.
"A message for the Moroccans? I hope to make them proud because I'm the first Moroccan to play for Milan. I'm glad to be coached by Seedorf and can't wait to play with Kaka and Balotelli." There is no buy-out clause in Taarabt's contract as Milan and QPR, who still own him, will discuss what to do at the end of the season. The 24-year-old can obviously play in the CL.
Briatore, who reportedly recommended Milan to go for the forward, commented on the move: "Taarabt is a great player. My Queens Park Rangers made it to the EPL because of him. I have told many good things about him to Adriano Galliani."
http://www.rossoneriblog.com/2014/01/30/taarabt-its-an-honour-i-cant-wait-to-play-for-milan/? (http://www.rossoneriblog.com/2014/01/30/taarabt-its-an-honour-i-cant-wait-to-play-for-milan/?)
Brede Hangeland helped lure Fulham loan signing William Kvist
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Loan: William Kvist started his career at Copenhagen alongside Fulham captain Brede Hangeland
Fulham today strengthened their midfield options by signing Stuttgart's William Kvist on loan.
The Denmark international has moved until the end of the season with an option of making the deal a permanent one in the summer.
Kvist started his career at Copenhagen, where he played alongside Fulham captain Brede Hangeland, before moving to Stuttgart in 2011.
The 28-year-old trained with his new team-mates today and could go straight into the squad for Saturday's home game against Southampton.
"I have heard a lot of good things from Brede and it has been a target of mine to come here," said Kvist.
Olympiakos striker Konstantinos Mitroglou could join Kvist as he was undergoing a medical today ahead of a £11million move but Adel Taarabt is off to AC Milan on a temporary basis after failing to impress at Fulham, where he is on loan from QPR.
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/brede-hangeland-helped-lure-fulham-loan-signing-william-kvist-9096538.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/brede-hangeland-helped-lure-fulham-loan-signing-william-kvist-9096538.html)
Sidwell v Schneiderlin: Three Key Battles Which Will Decide Fulham v Southampton
Fulham take on Southampton at home with Rene Mulensteen's men under real pressure after three straight defeats in the league while the Saints have regained a bit of good form and now unbeaten in their last three in the top flight and a place in the FA Cup fifth round.
The Cottager's have slipped into the bottom three and find themselves in 19th place, two points from safety. Mauricio Pochettino's men on the other hand are firmly in the top half of the table after their 2-2 draw with Arsenal.
Here Squawka takes a look at three of the key battles in a game which will be crucial in Fulham's survival bid.
Steve Sidwell vs. Morgan Schneiderlin
These two are key in the centre of midfield and important at both breaking up opposition moves and starting them for their own side, getting involved in the attack themselves if they can.
Despite the teams differing positions in the league Sidwell actually has the better Squawka Performance Score, 553 compared to 394. Their stats are surprisingly similar though with just under half of the tackles they have attempted successful and both winning about 70% of take ons. Schneiderlin's passing is slightly better, 88% compared to 84% but the Frenchman has made 14 less interceptions.
Whoever comes out on top in this duel is likely to dominate the midfield and dictate the way the game pans out.
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Sacha Reither vs. Adam Lallana
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Reither has been the regular right back for the Cottagers this season and will be in for a torrid time up against England international Lallana who has been deployed on the left of the three in a 4-2-3-1 with a license to roam for Southampton recently.
Against Arsenal on Tuesday night Lallana scored one and completed 85% of the 40 passes he tried. He also won every single take on and tackle while making three interceptions.
This season he has six goals from his advanced midfield position and has also made 33 key passes resulting in four assists with an overall pass completion of 83%.
Reither, however, is a solid defender with 60% of his 35 attempted tackles won and a 88% take on success. Lallana will certainly have had easier opponents to face.
Dimitar Berbatov vs. Maya Yoshida
The maverick Bulgarian only has four goals in 18 outings this season but could fancy his chances up against Southampton's makeshift centre back pairing.
With Dejan Lovren out with an ankle problem Japan international Yoshida will step in alongside Jose Fonte once again for only his fifth league appearance of the season. While he wins almost three quarters of headers and tackles he only averages one tackle and four headers per match. Also in the three games he has started Saints have conceded five goals.
Berbatov could well fancy his chances and improve on his goal tally for the season. He has hit 55% of his 33 shots on target this season and has also made 25 key passes.
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http://www.squawka.com/news/2014/01/30/3-key-battles-from-fulham-v-southampton-featuring-sidwell-v-schneiderlin/2014013062155? (http://www.squawka.com/news/2014/01/30/3-key-battles-from-fulham-v-southampton-featuring-sidwell-v-schneiderlin/2014013062155?)
Fulham Tunnicliffe Move Unlikely
Fulham's signing of Danish international William Kvist on loan from Stuttgart has ended their interest in Town's on-loan Manchester United midfielder Ryan Tunnicliffe, we understand.
Earlier today it was reported that Cottagers boss René Meulensteen was set to make a joint bid for Tunnicliffe and his Red Devils team-mate Larnell Cole, players he previously worked with during his spell as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Old Trafford.
But, although Fulham have kept a close eye on Tunnicliffe during his loan spell with the Blues, we understand they have not firmed up their interest and the addition of Kvist, a central midfielder of a similar style, means a move for the 21-year-old is now unlikely.
Tunnicliffe has been a regular in the Town side since joining on loan in August, making 24 starts and five sub appearances. He extended his spell until the end of the season earlier this month.
The January transfer window closes at 11pm on Friday evening.
http://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/24523? (http://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/24523?)
SOUTHAMPTON BOSS MAURICIO POCHETTINO CLAIMS TOTTENHAM'S LEWIS HOLTBY HAS JOINED FULHAM
Southampton manager Mauricio Pochettino appears to have let slip that Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby has moved to Fulham.
Germany international Holtby had been widely tipped to leave Spurs before the transfer window closes, but it had seemed likely he would return to his homeland with Borussia Dortmund or former club Schalke.
But Pochettino appears to have inside information that Holtby is only moving across London.
He told his press conference ahead of his side's clash with the Cottagers this weekend that Holtby was a "good signing" for them.
The Saints boss' knowledge of the situation suggests that he was also in the running to sign the 24-year-old.
The Cottagers immediately denied the suggestions that they had signed Holtby, but on the surface it likes like a 'no smoke without fire' situation.
http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/01/southampton-boss-mauricio-pochettino-claims-tottenhams-lewis-holtby-has-joined-fulham/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+offthepost%2FTLAa+%28Off+The+Post%29 (http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/01/southampton-boss-mauricio-pochettino-claims-tottenhams-lewis-holtby-has-joined-fulham/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+offthepost%2FTLAa+%28Off+The+Post%29)
Dimitar Berbatov set for move after Fulham target Kostas Mitroglou
• Club hope to sign Olympiakos striker for €13m
• Deal could allow Bulgarian to leave Craven Cottage
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Olympiakos have turned down two bids from Fulham for their striker Kostas Mitroglou but a deal could be agreed before Friday.
Photograph: Franck Fife/AFP/Getty Images
Dimitar Berbatov's Fulham future is uncertain and he stands to make a deadline day move if the club were to sign the centre-forward they are chasing. René Meulensteen, the manager, has made Kostas Mitroglou of Olympiakos his top target while he has Ajax's Kolbeinn Sigthorsson as his back-up plan.
Berbatov, whose contract expires in June, has attracted the interest of Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, among other clubs, and his situation is delicate as Friday night's transfer deadline approaches.
The 32-year-old has moped in recent weeks after his agent, Emil Dantchev, went public at the beginning of last month over the striker's desire to get a January move from Craven Cottage. Fulham are of the opinion that Berbatov can leave but only if they were able to sign a suitable replacement.
The club's owner, Shahid Khan, fearful of the prospect of relegation from the Premier League, is prepared to release £15m-£20m for Meulensteen to spend on reinforcing the squad.
Fulham have made two unsuccessful offers for Mitroglou, the Greece international, of €10m and €12m, with Olympiakos holding out for €15m. Fulham hope to reach a compromise at around €13m.
Mitroglou, 25, was available last year for just £4m but his value has increased on the back of his prolific form this season. He has 14 goals in 12 league appearances plus three in five Champions League ties – all three of them coming in the 3-0 group stage win at Anderlecht. Olympiakos face Manchester United in the last 16.
Sigthorsson, the 23-year-old Iceland international, is less prolific and he has scored only seven league goals so far this season for Ajax. But Meulensteen rates him and he believes that he could represent value at €10m.
Berbatov enjoyed two seasons at Tottenham from 2006 before he left under acrimonious circumstances for Manchester United. It would be a sensation were he to return to White Hart Lane but Tottenham do need another striker, with Jermain Defoe set to join Toronto FC at the end of February. The manager Tim Sherwood has Emmanuel Adebayor and Roberto Soldado but he favours playing with two up front.
There was interest in Berbatov from Arsenal at the end of last month and Fulham mooted the idea of taking Nicklas Bendtner in a part-exchange deal, featuring a cash adjustment. Bendtner is also out of contract in the summer. But the Dane was injured on New Year's Day as he scored a crucial goal for Arsenal against Cardiff City and he has only just returned to fitness.
Berbatov is famously self-assured and one possible complication over a move for him would be his desire for guaranteed playing minutes.
Fulham, who have cooled their interest in West Ham United's Ravel Morrison, have signed the 28-year-old Denmark midfielder William Kvist from Stuttgart on loan for the rest of the season. They have the option to make the deal permanent in the summer. Meulensteen also wants the Tottenham attacking midfielder Lewis Holtby.
http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jan/30/dimitar-berbatov-leave-fulham-kostas-mitroglou? (http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jan/30/dimitar-berbatov-leave-fulham-kostas-mitroglou?)
Transfer news: Fulham keen to bring in Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley
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Phil Bardsley: The Sunderland defender is wanted by Fulham
Sky Sports sources understand Fulham have made renewed bid for Sunderland defender Phil Bardsley.
The Cottagers had a £1million offer to their relegation rivals turned down for the 28-year-old full-back last week.
With the player's contract expiring at the end of the season, Black Cats boss Guy Poyet is keen to keep him with the promise of a new deal in the summer.
Bardsley looked like his time at the club was coming to an end when he was frozen out by previous boss Paolo Di Canio, but has now established himself as a key member of the side under the Uruguayan.
He scored against former club Manchester United as the Wearsiders booked their place in the Capital One Cup final against Manchester City.
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9141901/transfer-news-fulham-keen-to-bring-in-sunderland-defender-phil-bardsley? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9141901/transfer-news-fulham-keen-to-bring-in-sunderland-defender-phil-bardsley?)
Fulham are in advanced talks to sign Tottenham's Lewis Holtby - but the move hasn't been completed yet
Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino seemed to reveal the German international is heading to Craven Cottage, but the deal has not yet been concluded
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Fulham keen: But no deal for Lewis Holtby has been completed
PA
Fulham are in advanced talks with Tottenham to sign Lewis Holtby, Mirror Sport understands.
But no move has yet been concluded for the 23-year-old, despite Southampton boss Mauricio Pochettino appearing to suggest in his Thursday press conference that a deal had been concluded.
Holtby's agent hinted earlier this week that the former Schalke man could move away from White Hart Lane before the end of the transfer, but almost certainly in a loan move.
Marcus Noack said: "My feeling is that he will leave but it is not in our hands at the moment.
"Tottenham have to agree to let him go first. We have to find a solution in the next couple of days.
"I think it will be a loan because it is difficult for anyone to buy Lewis."
On the future of one of his own players, Dani Osvaldo, Saints boss Pochettino said that he had nothing to say despite reports linking the striker with a move to Juventus.
He said: "At the moment, there's no news but a lot of things can happen at that time."
Check out all the latest News, Sport & Celeb gossip at Mirror.co.uk http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-transfer-news-lewis-holtby-3094497#ixzz2ruExa2Wu (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-transfer-news-lewis-holtby-3094497#ixzz2ruExa2Wu)
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Fulham poised to announce club-record capture of £12.5m Konstantinos Mitroglou
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Club-record signing: Konstantinos Mitroglou is currently in London having a medical
Fulham are set to announce the signing of Greek striker Konstantinos Mitroglou for a club record fee of 15.2 million euros (£12.5m) from Olympiakos.
The 25-year-old is currently in London for a medical having agreed terms on a four-and-a-half-year contract worth £40,000 a week. Fulham initially had a bid of 10 million euros turned down by the Greek champions, but have eventually landed their primary target after coming back with two more offers, with the fee surpassing the £11.5m paid for Steve Marlet in 2001 and Andy Johnson in 2008.
Mitroglou's arrival could now clear the way for Fulham to allow Dimitar Berbatov to leave, with Tottenham rumoured to be interested in re-signing the Bulgarian. He could be used in a deal to sign Lewis Holtby from Spurs as Rene Meulensteen seeks to revamp his squad.
Mitroglou – who has scored 17 goals for his club this season - was scouted by Borussia Dortmund and Arsenal earlier this season and renewed his contract with Olympiakos only last month having previously had an 8 million euro release clause.
But with Fulham desperate for reinforcements as they fight to avoid the drop, Rene Meulensteen's side were the only club to register an official bid. According to a source close to the player, Mitroglou has no concerns about swapping the forthcoming Champions League last 16 tie against Manchester United with a relegation battle.
Having signed Danish midfielder William Kvist on loan from Stuttgart earlier on Thursday, Fulham have also been linked with a move for Phil Bardsley from Sunderland, who is out of contract in the summer. But it is the capture of Mitroglou, who scored three times in the two-legged World Cup playoff against Romania in November, that will most excite Cottagers' fans.
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-poised-to-announce-clubrecord-capture-of-125m-konstantinos-mitroglou-9097160.html (http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-poised-to-announce-clubrecord-capture-of-125m-konstantinos-mitroglou-9097160.html)
Holtby move to Fulham permanent - report
Well, this is an interesting development.
According to the Liverpool Echo, Lewis Holtby's move to Fulham will be on a permanent transfer, not on loan. They say that the fee will be just £5m.
Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby is set to join neighbours Fulham, despite recent reports linking him back to the Bundesliga. The midfielder has reached advanced talks, with the fee estimating to be around £5 million.
That translates to €6.1m in Euros, which is the fee that Spurs demanded from Borussia Dortmund for Holtby, which was turned down. If Holtby's agent and Fulham had knowledge of Spurs' asking price for Holtby from Bundesliga clubs, it seems reasonable that they would ask to pay the same fee if they wanted to buy him.
Holtby has struggled quite a bit in his year at Spurs, but he's also shown flashes of brilliance and hasn't been given an extended run in the first team. Spurs will double their money on Holtby if this deal goes through, but it will certainly disappoint Spurs fans to see him leave for such a nominal fee.
http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/30/5361606/lewis-holtby-tottenham-hotspur-transfer-rumours? (http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/30/5361606/lewis-holtby-tottenham-hotspur-transfer-rumours?)
Adel Taarabt: The player nobody knew
The first time I saw Adel Taarabt play was in the closing minutes of a match between West Ham and Tottenham in 2007. He came on with his trailing in the final minutes and, via some beautifully intricate skill, won a free-kick on the edge of the box which Tottenham would score and equalise from. He was seventeen years-old and he was impressive – he had such an obvious abundance of self-belief.
Little did anyone know...
Taarabt left England today and moved on-loan to AC Milan, meaning that he'll finally get the stage that he's forever been telling us that he deserves. Tottenham, QPR, Fulham...in his mind, all of those clubs were stepping-stones to the future which he has always believed would eventually be his.
The Moroccan is one of the most frustrating players of his generation and that's primarily because even though his ability does validate his ambition, his footballing IQ has always stopped him from being the player he should be. He doesn't know when to pass or when to shoot, and he values the glorification of his own ability over the collective success of his team. How can you trust a player like that in any situation which matters?
One the one hand, the child-like liberty with which he plays is probably what has allowed him to develop such pronounced technical ability, but on the other it's that same immaturity which has prevented him from becoming an elite player. He does what he wants on a football pitch, and he's incapable of being a functioning part of any tactical system which isn't built entirely around him – and to this day, no manager has ever been able to coach that out of him.
Maybe at AC Milan something will change mentally for him, and maybe that environment will provoke a sense of responsibility from Taarabt and he'll learn to use his ability more economically – but would you really bet on it? He's incredibly fortunate to have an opportunity at a club like AC Milan, but who knows whether he'll ultimately be smart enough to know how to take advantage of it.
He's been in England for nearly seven years now, but he still confuses me as much as he did in 2007.
http://thepremierleagueowl.com/adel-taarabt-the-player-nobody-knew/ (http://thepremierleagueowl.com/adel-taarabt-the-player-nobody-knew/)
Cottagers agree fee for striker
According to Sky Sports, Fulham have agreed a fee for Greek striker Konstantinos Mitroglou from Greek champions Olympiakos.
The broadcaster reports that the Cottagers have held talks with the Greek striker and his representatives all week and have edged closer to a deal, after agreeing a £12.5 million bid for the in-form striker.
The Greek international has been in red-hot form of late, scoring 17 goals in 19 games for Olympiakos this season, including consecutive hat-tricks earlier in the campaign against both Xanthi and Levadiakos in the Greek Super League.
Form
His prolific form for both club and country alerted the interest of multiple clubs to try and sign the former Borussia Monchengladbach youngster, although it appears that Fulham are now in pole position for his signature.
The Cottagers slid into the bottom three in this round of fixtures following their 2-0 away defeat at Swansea City on Tuesday night, and they will be hoping that Mitroglou, 25, will add the fire-power needed to help them pull out of and away from the Premier League's relegation zone.
After the unveiling of Danish defensive midfielder William Kvist this afternoon, the signing of Mitroglou could be the second signing for Fulham within 24 hours, and could also spark a sensational swap deal.
Swap
As per Goal, Mitroglou's seemingly imminent move to England would put Rene Meulensteen's men in position to pursue a swap deal with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
According to the website, Fulham's Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov reportedly held talks with Spurs earlier this week, although they stalled, possibly due to the frosty relations between the clubs following the moves for Moussa Dembele and Clint Dempsey.
However, the website claims that the Cottagers are interested in Spurs midfielder Lewis Holtby; the signing of Mitroglou may see the two clubs make a deal to swap the two players before the window closes tomorrow night.
http://www.touchlinetalk.com/cottagers-agree-fee-striker/84143/? (http://www.touchlinetalk.com/cottagers-agree-fee-striker/84143/?)
£5M Deal Close To CompletionHoltby out of White Hart Lane, to Fulham.
Karl Cryer of the Liverpool Echo is monitoring football transfers for the Merseyside paper.
Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby is set to join neighbours Fulham, despite recent reports linking him back to the Bundesliga. The midfielder has reached advanced talks, with the fee estimating to be around £5 million."
If Holtby were to leave Tottenham, it would certainly provoke a mixed reaction from supporters.
The 23 year old who joined Spurs in 2012, has made only 23 appearances in the Lilywhite, and scored just the one goal – curiously enough, against Fulham – but his positive attitude made him an almost instant hit with the fans. Holtby understands the importance of social media and unlike many professional footballers, ran his own Facebook and Twitter accounts, which added to warmth he was shown.
Of course, if this deal were to take place, then it would spark rumours that former Tottenham star, Dimitar Berbatov could be included in the deal somehow. The return of the Bulgarian would again, be met with a mixed response, as the player was reported as having gone on strike prior to his move to Manchester United.
Tottenham's next game is away to Hull City on the 1st of February.
http://threeandin.com/archives/34274? (http://threeandin.com/archives/34274?)
Premier League Preview: Fulham v Southampton
Southampton have not won at Fulham for over 66 years - but they will fancy their chances of ending that dismal run on Saturday.
Not since October 1947 have the south-coast club triumphed at Craven Cottage, with the Londoners winning eight of the 15 games between the two sides at the ground since.
This weekend could provide one of Southampton's best opportunities to bring that record to an end, though, as struggling Fulham languish second-bottom of the Premier League.
Rene Meulensteen's side slumped to a third consecutive top-flight defeat when they were beaten 2-0 at Swansea City on Tuesday.
The London club have scored only one goal in their last three games, conceding eight in those fixtures, while no Premier League club have lost more home games this season than their total of seven.
Ninth-placed Southampton have already beaten Fulham once this season, when Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez scored in a 2-0 win at St Mary's in October, head to the capital on the back of a 2-2 home draw with title-hopefuls Arsenal.
Head coach Meulensteen brought in midfielder William Kvist on loan from Stuttgart for the rest of the season with a view to a permanent move on Thursday.
And the Denmark midfielder hopes to make an immediate impact at the weekend.
He said: "Of course I would like to be involved against Southampton but the head coach will see if I'm fit and able to play - I think I am, although I haven't played for Stuttgart this year, but I'm feeling fit and motivated."
One player who will definitely not feature against Mauricio Pochettino's charges is Adel Taarabt as the playmaker, on loan from QPR, is set to complete a move to Milan.
Meulensteen will check on the fitness of John Arne Riise (hamstring) and Fernando Amorebieta (knee), but Matt Briggs (hernia) will not feature.
Pochettino was full of praise for his side following their impressive display against Arsenal and was left to rue not securing all three points.
However, the Argentinian is braced for a tough test at Craven Cottage despite Fulham's poor form.
"Fulham will want to get three points from us on Saturday. It's going to be a tough game." Pochettino said.
"There are still a lot of points to be won. Fulham had some problems at the start of the season, but they've changed a lot."
Pochettino revealed that striker Rickie Lambert will return to the squad after recovering from a hamstring problem, and midfielder Victor Wanyama (calf) could start for the first time since early in December.
Striker Pablo Daniel Osvaldo will play no part as he continues to serve a suspension following a training ground incident, while Dejan Lovren and Gaston Ramirez (both ankle) are still not fit.
http://uk.soccerway.com/news/2014/January/30/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-southampton/? (http://uk.soccerway.com/news/2014/January/30/premier-league-preview-fulham-v-southampton/?)
Fulham forward linked with Verona move
(http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/images/news/39413/638x0/fulham-forward-linked-with-verona-move.jpg)
Fulham forward Pajtim Kasami. Mandatory credit: Action Images.
Serie A side Hellas Verona have been linked with a move for Fulham forward Pajtim Kasami, according to TuttoMercatoWeb.
The Italians are on the lookout for a direct replacement for youngster Jorginho, who signed for Napoli earlier this month after a highly impressive start to the season in Italy's top flight.
Kasami has been in decent form himself this season, attracting interest from top clubs such as Juventus, and he has previously played in Serie A with Palermo.
The 21-year-old could be a useful addition for Verona as they look to maintain their top flight status after winning promotion last year, and he could be tempted by a move away from struggling Fulham.
The Cottagers themselves are likely to be active in the final days of the transfer window, which may mean there is room for Kasami to make way.
http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39413-fulham-forward-linked-with-verona-move.php#.UusoIf0cKbA (http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39413-fulham-forward-linked-with-verona-move.php#.UusoIf0cKbA)
Kvist verdict
As the January transfer window reaches a crescendo of activity, Sky Sports runs the rule over the high-profile movers in the Premier League. Hit or miss? Read our assessment and offer your own verdict here...
(http://e1.365dm.com/14/01/16-9/20/hit-or-miss-william-kvist-fulham_3075422.jpg?20140130181027)
William Kvist
To: Fulham
From: VFB Stuttgart
Fee: On Loan
Age: 28
Position: Midfielder
Nationality: Danish
Bio
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder arrives on a temporary deal from Bundesliga club Stuttgart with a view to a permanent transfer in the summer. A Denmark international and five-time Danish Superliga champions with FC Copenhagen, he featured regularly for Stuttgart last season but has recently lost his place in the team and has not featured since a substitute appearance in early December.
He says
"I'm very pleased to have got the deal done and I'm looking forward to contributing to this fantastic club. Of course I've heard a lot of good things from Brede (Hangeland) and it's been a target of mine to come here so I'm delighted to be here really. I just had my first training session and it was perfect. It was good to get to know the guys and talk to René Meulensteen about the tactical concepts and what his ideas are so I'm very much looking forward to my time here."
They say
"He exudes calmness on the ball." - Bruno Labbadia, former Stuttgart coach.
Hit?
As indicated by the above statistic, Kvist brings with him a combative approach that's been somewhat lacking from the team's performances so far this season and will provide support for the ageing trio of Scott Parker, Giorgos Karagounis and Steve Sidwell in the Fulham midfield. Kvist has good experience in the Bundesliga and, arguably more importantly given the sated egos among the Cottagers playing staff, a point to prove.
Miss?
Fulham's collection of misfits and loan signings proved a problem for previous manager Martin Jol as there was never any sense that the club was building for anything in particular - just surviving from one game to the next. A temporary signing from Germany is unlikely to have the transformative impact that is required of a team that is now the bookmakers' favourites for relegation.
Verdict
Kvist will strengthen a Fulham midfield that has struggled for energy this season and it would be no surprise to see the Dane establish himself as a first-team regular for the remainder of the campaign. File this one under quietly effective.
What is your verdict on William Kvist?
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/9142019? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11681/9142019?)
Fulham finally shift gear in a bid to avoid relegation
(http://thepremierleagueowl.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Lewis-Holtby-during-Tottenham-training-1561910.jpg)
Players under thirty arriving at Fulham, who would have thought it?
Maybe too much is made of the age of the squad at Craven Cottage, but it's a difficult factor to ignore when assessing what the issues have been on the banks of Thames. Players beyond their prime sleepwalking towards retirement – that's hardly an unfair collective assessment of large parts of the current squad.
Without meaning to repeat myself, I've been saying the same thing for a long time now: if a club has a large group of players who are on the down-slope of their careers, that will generally lead to a side becoming infected with a passive apathy.
Fulham have been that club for a while – and that's why the club's current transfer activity is so encouraging.
At the time of writing both deals are still yet to be concluded, but it looks highly-likely that Kostas Mitroglou and Lewis Holtby will both be added to the squad before the deadline and, with William Qvist already completed his loan move from Stuttgart, the front half of the team will look a whole lot healthier heading into the last four months of the season.
I can't speak for Kvist, but both Holtby and Mitroglou will bring mental attributes which are in short supply at Fulham. The German, prematurely dumped by Tottenham, is a model professional with an outstanding work-ethic and attitude, whilst the Greek forward – cynical as it may sound – probably sees Fulham as the perfect platform upon which to build a career in the elite European leagues. Both have something to prove, both will have a chip on their shoulder – and that's exactly the energy that Rene Meulensteen needs in his side.
Add a left-back tomorrow, and there's every reason to believe that Fulham will still be in the Premier League this time next year.
http://thepremierleagueowl.com/fulham-finally-shift-gear-in-a-bid-to-avoid-relegation/ (http://thepremierleagueowl.com/fulham-finally-shift-gear-in-a-bid-to-avoid-relegation/)
More Interceptions Than Parker: Fulham Sign Intelligent Midfield Lieutenant
(http://www.squawka.com/news/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/reu_1697359.jpg)
Fulham have announced the signing of William Kvist on loan until the end of the season, with an option to make the deal permanent at that point.
The Danish midfielder had been out of favour at Stuttgart this season and the German club have allowed him to link up with the Cottagers for the remainder of the campaign.
Manager Rene Meulensteen had been looking to freshen up his options in the centre of the park after letting Bryan Ruiz and Adel Taarabt leave the relegation candidates this transfer window.
Ravel Morrison and Steven Defour had been targets, but having not had any joy with either of their signatures and the end of the window fast approaching, they have moved quickly to seal the signing of Kvist.
The Dane generally operates as a holding midfielder and was heavily linked with a move to Spanish high-flyers Atletico Madrid in the summer, though a move failed to materialise.
He has 44 caps for his country and will go straight into the squad for Saturday's match at home to Southampton and will provide competition for Scott Parker at the base of the Fulham midfield.
READ THE NEWS? NOT ENOUGH? IMPRESS YOUR FRIENDS WITH THIS KVIST STAT
William Kvist has won 51% of his attempted tackles this season compared to Scott Parker's 48%, but Parker has attempted 60 more tackles than his Danish challenger.
http://www.squawka.com/news/2014/01/30/more-interceptions-than-parker-fulham-sign-intelligent-midfield-lieutenant/2014013062395? (http://www.squawka.com/news/2014/01/30/more-interceptions-than-parker-fulham-sign-intelligent-midfield-lieutenant/2014013062395?)
Spurs U18s 2-3 FFC U18s(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/Under%2018%20action%20shots/2013-14/Patrick%20Roberts/RobertsgoalvSpurs.ashx?w=350&h=250)
Patrick Roberts hit a hat-trick as Fulham won 3-2 at Tottenham Hotspur in the Fourth Round of the FA Youth Cup.
The game, played at Dagenham & Redbridge's Victoria Road ground, started 10 minutes later than scheduled due to an accident on the A2. When play did begin, the Whites couldn't have got off to a worse start as Spurs went in front in the third minute. Nathan Oduwa spun away from Liam Donnelly near the halfway line and burst down the left. His pace was too much for Fulham to deal with and his cross from the byline was met at the far post by Joshua Onomah who slotted into an open goal from seven yards out.
Fulham hit back, constructing their first attack in the eighth minute when Emerson Hyndman won the ball in midfield before sending Dean O'Halloran clear. The striker's touch was heavy, however, allowing Spurs keeper Luke McGee to race out of his goal and save at the Fulham youngster's feet.
George Williams went close for Fulham with a curling effort from the edge of the box in the 22nd minute. But, the Whites drew level from the resulting goal-kick after a horrendous error from Tottenham's Cameron Carter-Vickers. Receiving a short pass from McGee, Carter-Vickers tried to find centre-back partner Filip Lesniak but only resulted in giving the ball straight to Roberts who smashed home.
Spurs went straight down the other end and an angled effort from Shayon Harrison forced Marek Rodàk into a parry, before the same Tottenham player shot wide at the near post after meeting a low cross from Emmanuel Sonupe.
Just before the half-hour mark Conor Ogilvie sent a free-kick from 30 yards inches wide of Rodàk's left-hand post, but it was 2-1 to Fulham in the 33rd minute. Josh Smile cut in from the right before unleashing a left-footed shot from distance that McGee could only parry. Roberts was quickest to the rebound and slotted home to double his and Fulham's tally for the night.
Shortly afterwards Williams jinked into the box and saw a left-footed shot deflected just over by Carter-Vickers, before Steve Wigley made a substitution, Ryheem Sheckleford replacing Elijah Adebayo in the 38th minute.
Oduwa went close to drawing Tottenham level shortly after the break when his shot was blocked near the line after a great run by Onomah. But Spurs were level in the 52nd minute, Oduwa cutting inside and skipping past a couple of Fulham challenges before seeing his shot squirm under Rodàk and over the line.
Fulham should have been back in front in the 58th minute. Williams showed superb skill to turn and speed past Tottenham right-back Kyle Walker-Peters and find Hyndman, but the American could only send a side-footed effort over the bar from 10 yards out.
Hyndman went into the book in the 68th minute for chopping down Walker-Peters just outside the box. Ogilvie took the free-kick and forced Rodàk to tip the ball away with a fierce left-footed drive.
Oduwa was continuing to cause Fulham problems and he flashed a shot across the face of goal and just wide of the far post with 17 minutes remaining.
With the game heading for extra-time, Fulham went back in front in the 82nd minute as Williams saw a shot beaten away by McGee and that boy Roberts was on hand to fire home at the near post to grab his third of the game.
Just moments later both teams were reduced to 10 men. Onomah was fouled by Smile and reacted to it, with the Fulham winger retaliating. Something of a melee then ensued before calm was restored and referee Ashvin Degnarain dismissed both Onomah and Smile.
Spurs threw players forward in the dying minutes in search of an equaliser and Roberts was withdrawn for Josh Walker in injury time as Fulham held on for the win and a place in the Fifth Round away to Manchester City.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/30/spurs-u18s-ffc-u18s? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/30/spurs-u18s-ffc-u18s?)
Fulham clinch deals for Mitroglou, Holtby and Manchester United pair
The Cottagers have clinched permanent deals for the Olympiakos striker and Old Trafford youngsters Larnell Cole and Ryan Tunnicliffe, while the the German will arrive on loan
Fulham closed in on a quadruple swoop on Thursday night after agreeing deals for striker Kostas Mitroglou and Manchester United pair Larnell Cole and Ryan Tunnicliffe, Goal can reveal.
Tottenham's Lewis Holtby is also on the verge of completing a loan move to Craven Cottage after undergoing a medical on Thursday evening.
Mitroglou did his own medical at Fulham's Motspur Park headquarters earlier in the day after the Cottagers agreed a fee worth £11million including add-ons with the Greek club.
Goal understands that Fulham have also agreed permanent deals with United for Cole and Tunnicliffe, and that the youngsters are booked in for medicals at the club on Friday morning.
The quadruple swoop will bolster Rene Meulensteen's squad as the Londoners attempt to stave off relegation in the second half of the season.
However, Dimitar Berbatov is close to returning to White Hart Lane for a fee of around £1.5 million as Holtby prepares to move the other way.
The deal for Mitroglou will be regarded as a significant statement of intent given the pedigree of the 25-year-old, who has scored 23 goals in 25 matches for club and country this season.
Holtby will add youth and technical quality to Fulham's midfield, which has been criticised for its lack of sophistication this season. The German's loan deal will not include an option for a permanent transfer.
Fulham will pay fees for midfield pair Cole and Tunnicliffe, who are deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford.
Tunnicliffe, 21, who has made two appearances for United, has just completed a successful six-month loan spell at Ipswich Town.
Cole, 20, an England Under-20 international, has made one substitute appearance for United, in the Capital One Cup.
http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2014/01/30/4582951/-? (http://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/2896/premier-league/2014/01/30/4582951/-?)
Kostas Mitroglou passes Fulham medical?
Olympiacos striker Kostas Mitroglou is reportedly on the verge of joining Fulham after undergoing his medical at the club.
The Greek striker is the subject of a £12m bid from the Cottagers, and the 25-year-old underwent the procedure at their training ground on Thursday afternoon, according to Goal.com.
Rene Meulensteen saw a £9.5m offer rejected for Mitroglou last week but has since been given the go-ahead on the deal after seeing the increased offer accepted by the Greek side.
Advanced talks are underway with a four-year contract being discussed, according to the Daily Mail.
http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/olympiacos/transfer-talk/news/mitroglou-passes-fulham-medical_134036.html (http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/olympiacos/transfer-talk/news/mitroglou-passes-fulham-medical_134036.html)
West Ham plot Kostas Mitroglou transfer gazumping on deadline day AFTER Fulham agree £12.4m fee for him
Allardyce looking to inflict despair he felt when losing out to Everton over Lacina Traore on relegation rivals - which could stop Spurs re-signing Berbatov
(http://i1.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article3088222.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Kostas-Mitroglou-3088222.jpg)
London calling: West Ham and Fulham both want to buy Kostas Mitroglou
Getty
West Ham are set to hijack Fulham's £12.4million swoop for Olympiacos goal machine Kostas Mitroglou.
And the Hammers' dramatic move could wreck Tottenham's deadline-day bid to re-sign Dimitar Berbatov from the Craven Cottage club.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is set to finally make a move for the Bulgarian on Friday, but the Cottagers' manager Rene Meulensteen wants a replacement before allowing Berbatov to go.
Sam Allardyce's daring act of piracy emerges with Fulham ready to offer 25-year-old Mitroglou a four-year deal after intense negotiations with his Greek club.
Big Sam has been gazumped himself this window, losing Monaco striker Lacina Traore to Everton at the last minute.
The Hammers boss has also suffered frustration after Everton defender John Heitinga decided not to move to Upton Park at the 11th hour - having already agreed terms.
Now Allardyce, who earlier this week described this transfer window as the most ruthless he has known, is ready to commandeer a rival's transfer target himself.
West Ham are set to fund their bid for Mitroglou by selling midfielder Mo Diame to Queens Rark Rangers, with the Hoops' ex-Hammers boss Harry Redknapp making his move on Thursday night, and striker Modibo Maiga to French side St Etienne.
Before Thursday's developments, Greece international Mitroglou was set to replace Berbatov as Fulham's star striker as the west Londoners had agreed a £12.4million fee for him.
(http://i3.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article2905397.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/Dimitar-Berbatov-2905397.png)
Stroll on: Tottenham won't get Berbatov if Fulham don't sign a replacement
We revealed earlier this week that Meulensteen was keen on the 25-year-old, who hit 20 goals in all competitions last season.
This time around, he has already struck 17 times to help his club to the top of the Greek Super League and into the knockout stages of the Champions League - where they face Manchester United next month.
West Ham have also launched an ambitious bid to take Napoli left-back Pablo Armero, 27, on loan for the remainder of the season.
Meulensteen has cancelled his Friday press conference ahead of Fulham's weekend Premier League home game against Southampton in order to complete his transfer business.
He is in advanced talks to sign another Spurs player, midfielder Lewis Holtby, after QPR loanee Adel Taarabt left the Cottage to join AC Milan.
Meulensteen is determined to keep Mitroglou from the clutches of West Ham - who are among Fulham's rivals in the battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.
Kostas Mitroglou - God Of "Goal" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0eXSxUFwUE#ws)
Check out all the latest News, Sport & Celeb gossip at Mirror.co.uk http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-ham-transfers-kostas-mitroglou-3095404#ixzz2rwrizMZB (http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/west-ham-transfers-kostas-mitroglou-3095404#ixzz2rwrizMZB)
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Manchester United lose duo to Fulham on permanent deals
Fulham are closing in on a deal that would see Manchester United duo Larnell Cole and Ryan Tunnicliffe swap Old Trafford for Craven Cottage.
Goal.com believe Fulham have agreed terms with Manchester United over a deal that would see Cole and Tunnicliffe move to west London on a permanent basis.
Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen knows all about the aforementioned duo having spent several years at Manchester United before leaving the Premier League champions in the summer.
Both Cole and Tunnicliffe are said to be surplus to requirements at Old Trafford as they have failed to break into David Moyes' first-team plans.
Tunnicliffe, who has enjoyed loan spells at Peterborough, Barnsley and Ipswich over the last couple of seasons, has made just two senior appearance for Manchester United - while Cole's only game for Manchester United came in 2011/12 season against Leeds United in the Capital One Cup.
Cole and Tunnicliffe are also likely to be joined at Craven Cottage by Olympiakos striker Kostas Mitroglou as Meulensteen is desperate to bolster his squad before Friday's 11pm deadline.
http://www.givemesport.com/425868-manchester-united-lose-duo-to-fulham-on-permanent-deals?autoplay=on (http://www.givemesport.com/425868-manchester-united-lose-duo-to-fulham-on-permanent-deals?autoplay=on)
Fulham: Inter join chase for Spurs target
Inter Milan could look to pounce for Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov towards the end of the transfer window, SportsDirect News understands.
After appearing to miss out on a move for Juventus' Mirko Vucinic, Inter are still keen to strengthen upfront, and may now see Berbatov as a decent option available on the cheap.
The Bulgarian forward is known to be unsettled at Craven Cottage this season due to the team's poor performances, and has been linked with both Arsenal and his old club Tottenham Hotspur.
Spurs would appear to be in the driving seat for him at the moment, with Fulham seemingly willing to allow the 33-year-old to leave as they line up Konstantinos Mitroglou as a replacement.
Still, Inter will do their best to hijack a deal late on, and one final move to a big European club could certainly appeal to Berbatov.
http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39436-fulham-inter-join-chase-for-spurs-target.php#.Uusr0f0cKbA (http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39436-fulham-inter-join-chase-for-spurs-target.php#.Uusr0f0cKbA)
Berbatov Poised and Ready!
All this talk of Dimitar Berbatov possibly making, for him, an emotional return to White Hart Lane, continues to produce some juicy gossip.
It is being reported that the thirty-three year old is so keen to return to his former club that, even though a proposed deal involving Lewis Holtby coming the other way looks to be faltering, the Bulgarian has stationed himself in London today just in case he needs to scoot off somewhere in a hurry.
We`ll just sit back and see what the last hours of the transfer window bring shall we!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347755#ixzz2rzWyVy4l (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347755#ixzz2rzWyVy4l)
Premier League: Fulham v Southampton match preview
Fulham's poor form continued in midweek after another comprehensive defeat at Swansea, a result that leaves Rene Meulensteen's side in the relegation zone. The Dutchman understandably earned a fine reputation for his work at Manchester United, but his coaching ability has yet to transfer into managerial success.
Just three wins in his first ten games have highlighted an array of shortcomings within the Fulham squad and a frantic few remaining days in the transfer window will be vital to any potential upturn in their form. Defensive reinforcements are a must for Fulham after a Premier League season where they have conceded 50 goals – at least ten more than any other team. The importance of picking up a good result in this game cannot be understated either – Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea are three of their next four opponents.
Southampton have quietly returned to form amid the controversy caused by Nicola Cortese's departure from the club and record-signing Daniel Osvaldo's fight with teammate Jose Fonte. Mauricio Pochettino's team are unbeaten in five in all competitions despite the absence of key players for various periods, including Ricky Lambert and Dejan Lovren. Their early-season defensive solidity and robustness has disappeared though after a run of just two clean sheets in 14 games.
KICK-OFF: Saturday, 3.00pm
PAST MEETINGS...
Southampton 2 (Lambert, Rodriguez) Fulham 0, Premier League, October 2013
Fulham 1 (Berbatov) Southampton 1 (Lambert), Premier League, December 2012
Southampton 2 (Fonte 2) Fulham 2 (Hooiveld OG, Richardson), Premier League, October 2012
Southampton 3 (Phillips 2, Rosenior OG) Fulham 3 (Diop, Malbranque, Radzinski), Premier League, January 2005
STATS...
Southampton are without a win in their last 13 league games at Fulham – a run stretching back to 1947.
Fulham have conceded more home goals (22) than any other Premier League side.
Southampton have won just one of their past eight away fixtures.
Jay Rodriguez has five goals in his last five away games and is one away from his tenth Premier League goal of the season.
ODDS...
Fulham to win: 23.10
Southampton to win: 6.5
Draw: 12.5
TV: Highlights on BBC 1 at 10.35pm
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-southampton-match-preview-9097318.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/premier-league-fulham-v-southampton-match-preview-9097318.html)
Monaco could beat Spurs to Berbatov
Dimitar Berbatov's potential surprise return to Tottenham has been put in jeopardy by interest from Monaco.
The French club are keen on the Fulham striker as cover for the injured Radamel Falcao, who will miss the rest of the season.
Berbatov's agent Emil Danchev has indicated that the 33-year-old wants to leave Fulham and he has also been linked with a a move to Arsenal in this transfer window.
The striker left Tottenham in 2008 to sign for Manchester United for £30 million with Levy saying the decision to sell was due to Berbatov's pushing for a move to United after just one season at White Hart Lane.
Despite the bad feeling that episode left, Spurs are looking for another forward with Jermain Defoe about to join Toronto and Berbatov, whose Fulham contract expires in the summer, is in demand as an experienced stop-gap signing.
Arsenal are also aware of his availability and Turkish side Besiktas are said to have shown interest.
Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager, said in early January that Berbatov was not a player his club were considering "at the moment".
However, negotiations for the Frenchman's key target, Schalke's Julian Draxler, appear to have stalled and Berbatov would provide cover for striker Olivier Giroud in the short-term.
Meanwhile, Spurs midfielder Lewis Holtby has joined Fulham on loan from Tottenham after being filmed training with the club on Friday. He could yet feature in negotiations for Berbatov.
Read more at http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/278615.html#Mh01vo6uxYA012Qm.99 (http://www.espn.co.uk/football/sport/story/278615.html#Mh01vo6uxYA012Qm.99)
Fulham transfer deadline day 2014 – what to expect before 11pm
Rarely has a transfer window taken on such significance for Fulham. With the heavy thought of relegation looming over our heads, it's vital we get it right.
But, with the deadline looming ever closer, what can we expect to happen at Craven Cottage?
What do we need?
Quite a lot. A central midfielder has to take priority, despite the superb form of both Steve Sidwell and Scott Parker. Robust, tenacious forces they might be, but creativity is lacking in the middle of the park and someone needs to come in and fill that void.
A left-back is imperative too, with John Arne Riise settling back into his old routine of generally being bad (and also injured), while Kieran Richardson continues to look out of his depth, despite an improvement in performances.
Our centre back spots requires embellishment too, even though the return of Brede Hangeland and the rise of Dan Burn has helped add stability to a previously porous back line.
And, finally, a striker would be nice, not least because Dimitar Berbatov has pretty much given up now. Hugo Rodallega and Darren Bent are hardly forcing the Bulgarian out of the first team, either.
How much money is available to spend?
There seems to be a reasonable kitty available – certainly enough to tick a decent portion of the boxes listed above. Shahid Khan is a wealthy chap but he is also keen to live within his means, so while we will certainly splash some cash, we won't be doing a QPR.
Who do we want?
Numerous names have been thrown around and Rene Meulensteen hasn't been afraid to confirm which rumours are valid and which are wide of the mark.
Our pursuit of West Ham's Ravel Morrison has caused controversy and is set to go right down to the wire, while an audacious bid for Olympiacos' Konstantinos Mitroglou seems to be going somewhere.
Neil Taylor, the Swansea City left-back, has been linked but the Welsh club seem reluctant to sell. Amongst others, Simon Zoller and Lewis Holtby have also been spoken of,
What will we get?
The Mitroglou deal looks mighty close and should be confirmed by Friday's cut-off point. Lewis Holtby should also arrive to help in central midfield.
Will anyone leave?
Dimitar Berbatov is being pursued by Spurs, which would in turn help sweeten the Holtby deal. Derek Boateng is wanted in the Championship, namely by Watford, who may try and press through a loan deal before the deadline.
Philippe Senderos could (and should, please, please) leave, with Lazio reportedly interested.
http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/fulham-transfer-deadline-day-2014-what-to-expect-before-11pm-4283406/? (http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/fulham-transfer-deadline-day-2014-what-to-expect-before-11pm-4283406/?)
Fulham vs Saints: Preview
Saints make the trip to Craven Cottage on Saturday where they take on lowly Fulham in a 3pm kick-off.
Mauricio Pochettino's men will be hoping to extend their current three match unbeaten run in the Barclays Premier League when they take on a team that were swept aside in October at St Mary's when Saints ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.
Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez were on the scoresheet that day as Saints moved up to third in the table by taking 18 points from their opening nine fixtures.
Some 14 games later, and Fulham are a team very much need of points as they battle it out at the wrong end of the table after taking 19 points from their 23 matches played.
The Cottagers have made a change in the dugout since our last meeting, with René Meulensteen replacing the departed Martin Jol, and the former Manchester United coach has been active in the transfer market this month in a bid to revive Fulham's fortunes in the second half of the season.
Thursday's arrival of central midfielder William Kvist from German outfit VfB Stuttgart seemingly paved the way for the departure of Adel Taarabt who looks set to follow Bryan Ruiz out of Craven Cottage.
Fulham arrive into this game with just one win in their last five Premier League matches, with that solitary success a 2-1 victory over West Ham United on New Year's Day. Since then, defeats to Sunderland, Arsenal, and most recently, Swansea have left Meulensteen's side just one point off the foot of the table.
They reside in 19th place with three home wins to their name, and have conceded the most goals (50) in the entire division.
Saints remain in ninth and are chasing a fourth success on the road this season. They came through a third match unbeaten thanks to Tuesday's 2-2 draw with title chasing Arsenal, a game which 18 year-old forward Sam Gallagher made his first senior start in.
Gallagher played 70 minutes of the game, and with Rickie Lambert set to return from injury this weekend, Saints will have options to choose from as to who leads the line.
Adam Lallana scored the second Saints goal on Tuesday, which moves the skipper onto six Premier League strikes for the season as he approaches his 250th appearance for the club – something he will achieve if he plays on Saturday.
Current Saints star Steven Davis ex is a former Fulham player. They were the club he moved to from Aston Villa, before going onto join Glasgow Rangers.
Team News
Saints have no fresh concerns from the weekend, and may welcome both Victor Wanyama and Rickie Lambert into the squad this weekend.
Dejan Lovren and Gaston Ramirez are both sidelined with long-term ankle ligament injuries.
Fulham's new signing William Kvist could be in line for a debut in this game.
Pre-match quotes
Mauricio Pochettino:
"We also need to be aware that Fulham are wanting to get the three points as well off us. It's going to be a very tough game against Fulham - they've made a lot of changes, a lot of signings. They're going to be very aggressive at their stadium on their pitch and very much wanting to get the three points as well off us.
"Fulham have quality players, but they probably had some problems at the beginning of the season that made things hard on them, but they've changed now and made a lot of signings, so they're going to be a very dangerous side, and as all teams they're going to be wanting to get three points and it just goes to show you that the Premier League is a very competitive league until the end and nothing is decided yet."
Previous Meetings
Saints secured a 2-0 win over Fulham at St Mary's back in October thanks to first half goals from Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez.
Last season Saints hit back late on to take a 2-2 draw in the game at St Mary's. José Fonte's brace either side of Fulham's goals earned the hosts a deserved point.
It was a stalemate in the reverse fixture too, as Rickie Lambert's second half penalty rescued a 1-1 draw at Craven Cottage on Boxing Day.
Prior to then, our previous Premier League meetings with Fulham came in the 2004/05 season with Saints earning a draw on home soil but slipping to a 1-0 defeat at Craven Cottage.
It was a similar story a year earlier when Saints were defeated 2-0 away from home, but held Fulham to a goalless draw at St Mary's.
In fact, that's the only goalless draw in the last thirteen meetings between the two teams.
Saturday's game is the 63rd all-time meeting between the two teams. Saints have the upper hand with 23 victories to Fulham's 18. A further 21 games have ended level.
Match Information
Mike Jones will referee Saturday's game, and he will be assisted by Mr G Beswick and Mr I Hussin. Mr D Coote is the fourth official.
Online Coverage
As with every First Team game, we'll be providing minute-by-minute coverage throughout the day on our official Twitter feed plus goal updates on our official Facebook page.
You can listen to live commentary courtesy of BBC Solent on Saints Player, where you can keep up to date with all the stats and scores from around the country.
Mauricio Pochettino and Calum Chambers spoke to Saints Player ahead of the game, and you can watch their interviews, as well as the press conferences in full on our video channel.
After the match there will be plenty more content on saintsfc.co.uk and Saints Player, so stay tuned!
And if you're coming to the game, don't forget to take your smartphones and join in with #MarchingIn on our social media channels. Tweet us @SouthamptonFC or comment on our official Facebook page and upload images onto Instagram with the #MarchingIn for a chance to appear in a future edition of our Matchday Magazine.
Read more at http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/fulham-vs-saints-preview-1329050.aspx?#VtgOA1bqOQseTYm8.99 (http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/news/article/fulham-vs-saints-preview-1329050.aspx?#VtgOA1bqOQseTYm8.99)
Greek reports - Mitroglou signs for Fulham in €15m deal until 2018, snubbing West Ham
Reports in Greece suggest Kostas Mitroglou has agreed a deal with Fulham despite a late approach from West Ham.
It looked like being a deal that would drag through into the late hours of Deadline Day - but according to reports in Greece that is not the case.
The player in question is Greek international Kostas Mitroglou - who has been the subject of bids from both Fulham and West Ham United in the last 24 hours.
The Olympiakos striker has been banging in the goals in the Greek Super League and the Champions League and was previously linked with Arsenal, Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund.
Fulham had a bid accepted for the player on Thursday - and it seemed as though it would be a straightforward move to bring him to Craven Cottage, potentially paving the way for an exit for Dimitar Berbatov.
But it was then reported last night that Sam Allardyce and West Ham United were ready to overtake them in the pursuit.
However, reports in Greece now suggest Fulham need not worry.
NOVAspor.FM have reported that a deal for him to join Fulham, for around €15 million, on a deal until 2018 is done.
The report states:
Kostas Mitroglou, the 25-year-old striker has agreed with Fulham until 2018 noon signing, as first reported by NovaSPOR FM 94.6.
The West Ham tried to 'grab' the Greek international, however Fulham having agreed with both the Olympiakos (at €15 million) and the player (as opposed to about 2.5 million per year) is that will win his signature.
It would be a huge coup for The Cottagers, considering the teams previously linked with his signature, and would also break the clubs transfer record.
Mitroglou will certainly add a more swashbuckling style than Berbatov - working much harder for the team whilst still carrying the same goal threat.
And it now seems as though they have won the battle to sign him - and Berbatov might still be on the move.
http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/greek-reports-mitroglou-signs-for-fulham-on-15m-deal-until-2018/? (http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/greek-reports-mitroglou-signs-for-fulham-on-15m-deal-until-2018/?)
Who is Fulham's new midfield signing William Kvist?
The Danish midfielder has signed on loan from VFB Stuttgart on loan for the rest of the season to boost the Cottagers' numbers in the middle third.
Fulham are geared up for a busy deadline day with as many as five or six players potentially arriving and departures also a possibility from Craven Cottage.
Konstantinos Mitroglou, Ryan Tunnicliffe, Larnell Cole and Lewis Holtby are all likely to join Rene Meulensteen's revolution at Craven Cottage before the 11pm deadline, but the first of a possible raft of signings was secured today, when the club tied up a move for VFB Stuttgart's William Kvist.
The Danish midfielder joins on loan for the rest of the season to help shore up the Cottagers' ranks in midfield and provides an alternative to the increasingly over-used Scott Parker and Steven Sidwell.
Here are five facts on Fulham's new signing...
Good with his hands as well as his feet:
The 28-year-old was a keen handball player growing up as a child and, in the 1996-1997 campaign, he won Danish youth championships in both of his two chosen sports.
The next Rory Delap:
With experience of playing handball, Kvist has become well-renowned for his long throw-ins, which have drawn comparisons with former Stoke City throw-in specialist Delap.
The ultimate utility man:
Kvist started out at FC Copenhagen in 2004 and in his infant stages with the Danish outfit made most of his appearances at right-back before harnessing his talents in central defence, on the left flank and in central midfield, where he now primarily operates.
Denmark's leading light:
Kvist, who has become a key figure in the Denmark national side, was rewarded for his consistent performances with his country by being awarded the Danish Football Player of the Year in 2010, when he was also crowned the Danish Superliga Player of the Year, and in 2011. Kvist was part of both Denmark squads at the 2010 World Cup and 2012 European Championships.
Familiar faces:
Kvist will link up once again with Brede Hangeland, the Fulham skipper, after playing alongside the Norwegian central defender in the Champions League with FC Copenhagen.
http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/tmb-who-is-fulhams-new-midfield-signing-william-kvist/? (http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/tmb-who-is-fulhams-new-midfield-signing-william-kvist/?)
West Ham Transfer News: Kostas Mitroglou Could Chose Hammers Over Fulham?
West Ham have made a late bid for Fulham target Kostas Mitroglou, according to Sky Sports.
Fulham reportedly agreed a fee with Olympiakos for the striker, but their London rivals are now dramatically attempting to hijack the move as the transfer window nears its end.
The Hammers have been the busiest side in the January window, bringing in six players, and the signing of Mitroglou would be a huge boost as they seek to avoid relegation this season.
The Greece international has been in potent form for Olympiakos this season, netting an incredible 17 goals in 19 games.
Fulham had been hopeful of landing the 25-year-old this month after agreeing a fee with his club, believed to have been somewhere in the region of £12.5 million.
However, they may now be set for a nerve-shredding deadline day battle with West Ham as competition for his signature starts to heat up.
The Hammers have struggled in the striking department this season and see Mitroglou as an ideal signing this month.
Andy Caroll has been out for much of the season with an ankle injury, leaving Sam Allardyce's side looking short of options in front of goal.
Read more at http://whatculture.com/sport/west-ham-transfer-news-kostas-mitroglou-chose-hammers-fulham.php#3DICfy4WP12wS3KL.99 (http://whatculture.com/sport/west-ham-transfer-news-kostas-mitroglou-chose-hammers-fulham.php#3DICfy4WP12wS3KL.99)
Keeping Cool
Damien Duff has plenty of years of experience to draw upon when he talks of Fulham's chances for the remainder of the season. And his message is clear - there's no need to panic yet.
Despite seeing the Whites slip back into the bottom three in midweek, with 45 points still up for grabs from their remaining 15 league fixtures this season, Duff isn't having too many sleepless nights just yet, with teams all the way up to 10th-placed Aston Villa still looking nervously over their shoulders at the chasing pack.
That's not to say he doesn't think Fulham need to get back to winning ways as soon as possible. At home to Southampton on Saturday would be a good place to start.
"We've got some good men that are going to fight until the last minute," Duff told the official matchday programme. "We deserve to stay up - we're a Barclays Premier League club - but at the end of the day you need to do it out on the pitch. We're in the bottom three but we're not going to panic. The season doesn't end on Saturday, it ends on 11th May. There's plenty of time for us to get out of trouble.
"Saturday will be tough. It's a must-win and another cup final for us because we need the three points. But we have to look at it that we're at the Cottage. Being at home, you always try to use that as an advantage and if we can get back to playing football like we have done, then we'll give them a good game."
To read the full interview with Duff, pick up an official matchday programme on Saturday.
Other key content in the only matchday magazine that matters - which is available to download digitally from 9am on Saturday - include:
René Meulensteen pens his regular programme notes
Dan Burn takes the Fulham 50 challenge
Alan Neilson recalls the season when Fulham knocked Southampton out of two cup competitions
Former Saints star Matt Le Tissier assesses the Cottage encounter
We pay tribute to former Fulham Director and Club Historian Dennis Turner following his untimely death
And Luis Boa Morte looks back on his playing stint in SW6
Priced £3.50, the 84-page publication is available from various sellers on Stevenage Road from two hours before kick-off. Fans can also order copies directly from www.programmemaster.com (http://www.programmemaster.com)
The programme is also available as an app with added video content from 9am on Saturday via Apple's Newsstand or Pocketmags. You can subscribe for the whole season for the digital edition or buy a single issue for £1.99.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/keeping-cool? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/keeping-cool?)
Fulham chasing defensive additions as well as Mitroglou
Rene Meulensteen is looking to strengthen his defence before 11pm today.
Fulham have reportedly made another bid for Swansea left-back Neil Taylor according to Sky Sports. They had one bid rejected last week believed to be £4m, but they have now returned with an improved offer.
However a deal has certainly been made more complicated for Fulham to complete as Neil Taylor's wife is currently in labour. Therefore it is hugely unlikely that Taylor will be looking at completing a move today.
Meulensteen has also had bids rejected for Phil Bardsley in this window, but now seems to be focusing his attention on Jonny Heitinga. BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty has said
"Fulham's enquiry for Everton defender John Heitinga is an interesting potential deal as the Netherlands international previously decided to give West Ham United a wide berth in this window. Perhaps his fellow countryman Rene Meulensteen can succeed where Sam Allardyce failed."
Galatasaray are also interested in the Dutch international however, and The Mirror reports that Roberto Martinez has admitted Heitinga is in talks with the Turkish club. The defender will want a move that can guarantee him first-team football, so he can try and force his way into the Dutch World Cup squad for this summer.
Martinez said "He had talks. He was given permission to speak to a couple of clubs. That has been the case in the last two days. It's very important that, in this window, Johnny finds the right solution from now until till the end of the season."
ulham are also hoping to wrap up the signing of striker Konstantinos Mitroglou, despite late attempts from West Ham to hijack the move.
Sky Sports are reporting that Lewis Holtby is training with Fulham today and should complete a loan move. A deal has yet to be officially announced though.
http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/fulham-chasing-defensive-additions-as-well-as-mitroglou/? (http://hereisthecity.com/en-gb/2014/01/31/fulham-chasing-defensive-additions-as-well-as-mitroglou/?)
PHOTO: TOTTENHAM'S LEWIS HOLTBY TRAINING AT FULHAM
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BfTgU4AIQAA__Kg.jpg)
Tottenham's Lewis Holtby has been spotted training with Fulham ahead of a loan move to Craven Cottage.
http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/01/photo-tottenhams-lewis-holtby-training-at-fulham/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+offthepost%2FTLAa+%28Off+The+Post%29 (http://www.offthepost.info/blog/2014/01/photo-tottenhams-lewis-holtby-training-at-fulham/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+offthepost%2FTLAa+%28Off+The+Post%29)
Fulham snap up Germany international
Fulham look set to complete the signing of Lewis Holtby on loan from Tottenham for the rest of the season.
The Germany international has found himself on the fringes of the first team since Tim Sherwood took charge and was on the bench again for the midweek defeat to Manchester City. Holtby had looked like he would be heading back to Germany earlier this month, with his former club Schalke keen to take him on loan until the end of the season. But Fulham have stepped in and Holtby is understood to have trained with the Cottagers on Friday morning and could complete the deal in time to feature against Southampton on Saturday.
Read more at: http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/fulham-snap-up-germany-international-1703892.html? (http://www.clubcall.com/fulham/fulham-snap-up-germany-international-1703892.html?)
Barry Hayles column: Fulham must spend on transfer deadline day
Former Whites striker tells Lewis Deakin his old club must get it right as the clock ticks down tonight
(http://i3.getwestlondon.co.uk/incoming/article6234846.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/0838708-6234846.jpg)
Golden oldie: Former Whites striker Barry Hayles
It would be unthinkable for a club like Fulham to be relegated from the Premier League.
Fulham would find it tough to bounce back from relegation straight away. Quite a few of their star players would leave, because they would want to play in the top-flight.
The club would be hit by the loss of Premier League revenue they have received over the past 13 years.
On deadline day I hope Rene Meulensteen will bring some firepower into Fulham.
The club are too reliant on Dimitar Berbatov to come up with the goals'.
Olympiakos striker Konstantinos Mitroglou would certainly be welcome at Craven Cottage. Konstantinos has scored 21 goals in 23 appearances for both his club and Greece. I therefore don't believe the £11million transfer fee would put any added pressure upon him.
As a striker you tend to believe in your own abilities; and that you will get in the right positions to score goals. With the way Fulham play football: Konstantinos should hopefully get the chances that can fire Fulham to Premier League safety.
With Adel Taarabt's departure to AC Milan confirmed there is now a place for West Ham midfielder Ravel Morrison at Fulham.
(http://i2.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/incoming/article6536038.ece/ALTERNATES/s615/PA_SOCCER-West-Ham-215462_7262417-6536038.jpg)
He is a player with a lot of potential. I don't think his bad boy image would cause the club a problem; with the right coaching – he would knuckle down and focus on his football. Ravel is a player, who can be a match-winner. I hope Rene will bring him to Craven Cottage.
Adel's departure was the right decision for both himself and Fulham. He is not the type of player Rene needs for a relegation battle. In some games Adel can be worth his weight in gold, but in most matches he needs to be carried. In a relegation battle you need players, who are willing to die for the cause.
Ray Wilkins has joined the coaching staff at Fulham. He is a man with a lot of contacts throughout football. Hopefully, Ray can help bring in a few players that can get Fulham back to winning ways.
It's very difficult as a Fulham fan and former player looking in and seeing the club struggle. I thought once the club had stabilised in the Premier League – they would grow and grow. Their form is worrying.
Hopefully, they will be able to recruit some players, who can make a difference. But Rene's men should have got something out of the Swansea game on Tuesday night. You need to stay close to the teams around you; the 2-0 defeat was difficult to take.
Throughout the campaign Fulham have picked up good results, but then they have gone on a terrible run and struggled.
http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/barry-hayles-column-fulham-must-6652757? (http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/barry-hayles-column-fulham-must-6652757?)
Fulham v Southampton preview: Team strengths, tactics and stats
(http://www.independent.co.uk/incoming/article9098734.ece/ALTERNATES/w620/Ful-vs-Sot.jpg)
Check out all the vital statistics ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting at Craven Cottage
Ahead of this weekend's Premier League meeting, between Fulham and Southampton, see how the sides compare on possession, pass accuracy, tactics and much more.
Data and graphic provided by whoscored.com
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-v-southampton-preview-team-strengths-tactics-and-stats-9099040.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/fulham-v-southampton-preview-team-strengths-tactics-and-stats-9099040.html)
Hughes Joins QPR
The Club can confirm that Aaron Hughes has joined Queens Park Rangers for the remainder of the season.
The 34-year-old, who made his 250th appearance for Fulham in the recent draw with Sheffield United, will join up with the Sky Bet Championship side until the end of the season.
Everyone at the Club would like to wish Aaron all the best during his time at Loftus Road.
The Club can also confirm the early termination of its loan deal with QPR for Adel Taarabt.
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/hughes-joins-qpr? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/hughes-joins-qpr?)
Lewis Holtby Set For Fulham Loan Move
Fulham have no midfield, so we're giving them a really good 1/3 of one at basically no cost. Hope it works out.
Update: Lewis Holtby's loan move now official.
Yesterday, conflicting reports appeared in the Liverpool Echo and Goal.de on Lewis Holtby's reported move to Fulham. The Echo said it was a permanent transfer for a little under £5m, while Goal.de reported a loan with no option to buy. We didn't know how to parse the difference at the time.
Now we have what looks like a clear report from Sky Sports that Holby will move to Fulham on loan. The move is so locked in, they report, that Holtby has begun training with Fulham in advance of his contract moving to their books. There is not that much to the Sky report, but they're generally pretty solid on these sorts of things.
Lewis Holtby has trained with Fulham ahead of his anticipated deadline-day loan move from Tottenham.
They do not mention whether Goal.de was correct that Fulham have no option to buy, but given that the key part of the report is confirmed, it's reasonable to be hopeful.
Fulham's midfield was a gaping crater of terrible, as Ted Knutson at Statsbomb recently demonstrated with pretty charts, so this is a fantastic move for the Cottagers. Hopefully Holtby takes advantage of the opportunity and returns to Spurs Lodge over the summer ready to play the kind of consistent, Champions League quality football that his German career suggested he was capable of.
http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364256/lewis-holtby-set-for-fulham-loan-move-sky? (http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364256/lewis-holtby-set-for-fulham-loan-move-sky?)
Transfer Deadline Day: Dimitar Berbatov poised for Monaco
Fulham striker Dimitar Berbatov is set to join Ligue 1 club AS Monaco.
The 33-year-old, who is out of contract this summer, has scored five goals in 19 games this season, and was linked with a return to old club Tottenham.
However, Monaco boss Claudio Ranieri said there was "nothing definite" about any deal for the Bulgarian.
The club are likely to be without striker Radamel Falcao until the end of the season after the Colombian suffered serious a knee injury.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25981420? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25981420?)
Holtby's loan move to Fulham now official
We're glad this is settled.
Our month-long nightmare is finally over. Tottenham Hotspur announced this morning that Lewis Holtby will head to Fulham on loan for the remainder of the season.
As Michael pointed out earlier, Holtby has already been training with the Cottagers for a while. He should slot into their midfield nicely, along with fellow new arrival William Kvist. We're so sorry, Scott Parker and Steve Sidwell. You've had a nice run, but it's time for some big boys to step in.
Since this has already been confirmed amidst rumors of Dimitar Berbatov going to random corners of the globe, it seems safe to say that the moves were entirely independent of each other. Even if Berbatov isn't coming the other way, Spurs would like Holtby to go on loan to a Premier League team, and he probably likes that he doesn't have to move.
Hopefully, Holtby comes back a much better player, ready to compete for first team football at Spurs
http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364288/lewis-holtby-fulham? (http://cartilagefreecaptain.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364288/lewis-holtby-fulham?)
Manchester United may refuse to let academy star join Fulham permanently
Manchester United may refuse to allow Larnell Cole to join Fulham on a permanent basis, according to reports, although a loan move would still be likely elsewhere.
Larnell Cole may or may not be joining Fulham, according to reports.
The United academy star had been linked along with Ryan Tunnicliffe to be joining Rene Meulensteen at Fulham, but the Daily Mail's Adam Crafton states that he won't be allowed to leave permanently. Fulham have used up all their loan spots from Premier League clubs, so that would appear to rule that out.
Then, however, Sky Sports News contradicted that by claiming the player is at Fulham for a medical. Which couldn't be a loan, so it'd have to be a permanent deal too.
Cole was one of the brighter prospects in the United academy so it's a slight surprise that United would let him leave, but we've been here before with Mats Daehli, now at Cardiff via Molde. With Jesse Lingard ahead of him in the pecking order and United set to sign Marco Reus before bringing Ronaldo back home, perhaps he's just missed his chance. Nonetheless, we wish him well.
http://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364284/manchester-united-transfer-deadline-day-rumours-news-larnell-cole-ryan-tunnicliffe-fulham? (http://thebusbybabe.sbnation.com/2014/1/31/5364284/manchester-united-transfer-deadline-day-rumours-news-larnell-cole-ryan-tunnicliffe-fulham?)
Transfer news: Tottenham midfielder Lewis Holtby completes loan switch to Fulham
Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Lewis Holtby has completed his loan switch to Premier League strugglers Fulham after training with his new teammates this morning.
After signing the paperwork today, the German will now be eligible to play for the Cottagers against Southampton tomorrow after beating the 12pm deadline.
It had initially seemed more likely to be a permanent switch, with Fulham apparently willing to part with as much as £8m for the 23-year-old after talk of a move for Ravel Morrison cooled.
Holtby, who trained with the squad today, will reportedly earn £70,000-a-week at his new side as Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen bids to revamp his side ahead of the final few months of the season.
The club are also hopeful of signing Leicester City striker Jeff Schlupp - who can play in both defence and midfield - despite late interest from Swansea City.
Despite continued interest from Premier League sides, Foxes manager Nigel Pearson has preferred David Nugent and Jamie Vardy to lead his attack so far this season.
The former Southampton and Hull City boss, however, has regularly insisted that no first-team players will be sold during the current window.
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-tottenham-midfielder-lewis-holtby-completes-loan-switch-to-fulham-9099189.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-tottenham-midfielder-lewis-holtby-completes-loan-switch-to-fulham-9099189.html)
Losing Mitroglou?
If Fulham are to commit a club record fee in bringing Konstantinos Mitroglou to Craven Cottage then perhaps now is the time for us all to cross our fingers.
The reason being is that the tabloid press, this morning, are championing the fact that West Ham United might very well be about to snatch the player from right under our noses.
Although Sam Allardyce, over at Upton Park, has intimated that he`s finished with his dealing in this transfer window, the press seem to think differently.
With Olympiakos keen to cash in on the striker who has scored 17 goals this season, the deal has every chance of becoming a cash-cow with the highest bidder winning.
Will it be us?
We`ll know come 23:00 hours, at the latest, today!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347807#ixzz2rzeMUCMq (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347807#ixzz2rzeMUCMq)
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
(http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/72621000/jpg/_72621847_fulham-southampton.jpg)
Fulham v Southampton
Southampton have had their sticky patch and have turned things around of late. They played very well in their draw against Arsenal on Tuesday and will fancy their chances of going to Craven Cottage and winning.
Fulham have the worst defence and worst goal difference in the Premier League and have not won in the league since New Year's Day.
But the Cottagers are at home and they could have a couple of new faces in their team by kick-off because William Kvist has joined on loan from Stuttgart.
Loanee Adel Taarabt has joined AC Milan and Dimitar Berbatov looks like he is on his way out, so you can see why Fulham boss Rene Meulensteen is trying to get another striker, Konstantinos Mitroglou, from Olympiakos.
I thought Fulham would have turned the corner by now, but defensively they are still very poor - and very porous. A draw on Saturday would be a big step in the right direction for them.
Lawro's prediction: 1-1
David's prediction: 1-3
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25961894? (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/25961894?)
Kvist Eager to Seize the Opportunity
Now that William Kvist has put his name to a contract at Craven Cottage, it`ll be very interesting to see how the Danish international gets on.
He certainly has the pedigree to be a success and with the prospect of a permanent contract, in the summer, he has every reason to give his all.
Speaking to the media, the player also seems pleased that he has made it to the Holy Grail of football - the Premier League, with William remarking in the media,
"I`ve heard a lot of good things from Brede Hangeland."
"This is the biggest league in the world and the biggest challenge you can get - it is the motherland of football."
"When I was just a child I used to watch English football on television so it`s amazing being here."
Let`s hope he isn`t awe-struck when it comes to him making his debut as we`ll need him to be up and running pretty quick!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347808#ixzz2rzespBG5 (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347808#ixzz2rzespBG5)
Lescott Stays at City!
If Fulham had ambitions of landing the Manchester City centre back, Joleon Lescott, in a late deal, the word disappointment could become very prominent.
The 31 year-old centre back, told by Manchester City that he can leave the Etched Stadium as long as Manchester City recruit a replacement, had been linked to a move to either Upton Park or Craven Cottage.
Unfortunately for us and West Ham, Lescott has decide dot remain at Manchester City for the remaining six months of his contract and then see what option are available to him come this summer.
In my opinion it`s a crying shame as a central defensive partnership of Hangeland and Lescott could have done us wonders in our mission to avoid relegation!
Read more: http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347809#ixzz2rzf1wtSY (http://www.fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/article.asp?a=347809#ixzz2rzf1wtSY)
Holtby verdict
As the January transfer window reaches a crescendo of activity, Sky Sports runs the rule over the high-profile movers in the Premier League. Hit or miss? Read our assessment and offer your own verdict here...
(http://e2.365dm.com/14/01/16-9/20/hit-or-miss-luis-holtby-fulham_3075828.jpg?20140131120404)
Lewis Holtby
To: Fulham
From: Tottenham
Fee: On Loan
Age: 23
Position: Midfielder
Nationality: German
Bio
Holtby, the Germany international with the English name, began his professional career with Alemannia Aachen before making the move to Schalke in 2009. He enjoyed a successful loan spell at Mainz before returning to Gelsenkirchen, where he earned senior international honours in November 2010. A transfer to Tottenham in January 2013 has not worked out as planned and new manager Tim Sherwood was happy to let Holtby join Fulham on loan.
He says
Speaking to Bild in December: "At the moment, from a sporting perspective, there are constant ups and downs. Despite the great competition and my relatively few games, I have also achieved nine assists and three goals so far this season. That's a good rate. However, I am itching to start more games and reluctant to keep coming back to the warmth of the substitute bench."
They say
"Fulham is a very well-run club with an excellent manager Rene Meulensteen. The system and philosophy how Fulham play fits well with Lewis. He will play games in his favourite position. Then we'll see how things are in the summer. A move to the Bundesliga was shattered by circumstances beyond our control." - Holtby's agent Markus Noack
Hit?
What's not to like? A member of Germany's golden generation heralded as a superb capture for Tottenham just one year ago now finds himself at lowly Fulham. This has coup written all over it. Already handed the prized No 10 shirt, it seems Meulensteen has big plans for Holtby and is willing to build the team around him. That's the sort of attention that Holtby was denied at Spurs and could see him bounce back to his best. He's only 23, after all.
Miss?
Sceptics will look at Holtby's non-existent impact at Spurs and wonder what will be different at a struggling Fulham side. Such is the malaise at the west London club, it is a huge ask for Holtby to have a transformative effect on their fortunes. Will he thrive in a relegation battle? Or will he flitter around the midfield for a few months before getting the summer move to the Bundesliga that it seems he pined for in January?
Verdict
A great signing for Fulham and while the player has not ruled out a permanent move, it would be no surprise if he moves on to bigger and better things elsewhere in the summer. In the meantime, he might just keep the Cottagers in the Premier League.
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11096/9143286/holtby-verdict? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11096/9143286/holtby-verdict?)
Heitinga set for Fulham switch
John Heitinga is reportedly holding talks with Fulham over a proposed switch to Craven Cottage before the transfer deadline, possibly on loan.
Rene Muelensteen is looking at reinforcements after Aaron Hughes sealed a move to QPR and is eyeing Heitinga who is looking for regular first-team football.
Reports in the Netherlands suggest that Valencia have also emerged as potential suitors for the 30 year-old.
File under: Seems likely
http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/13-14/rumour-mill/26708.html? (http://www.toffeeweb.com/season/13-14/rumour-mill/26708.html?)
Swansea City admit Neil Taylor could be off to Fulham as Michael Laudrup eyes deadline day replacement
Taylor looks set for a £5m move to the Cottagers, but only if Laudrup can find a replacement today
Swansea City could cash-in on £5m Wales star Neil Taylor – but only if they get a replacement left-back before tonight's transfer deadline.
Fulham are understood to have returned with an improved offer for the 24-year-old having seen a £4m bid rejected last week.
That bid was not believed to be £4m up front and it remains to be seen whether they have restructured the offer, as well as upping the valuation of the highly-rated defender.
Craven Cottage chief Rene Meulensteen admitted he is a long-term admirer of the ex-Wrexham man who has told Swans boss Michael Laudrup of his frustrations at losing his regular No.3 berth to compatriot Ben Davies.
Laudrup admits he has sympathy with the player who returned from a horror injury last year to figure in Europa League and FA Cup action this season, but his lack of Premier League action has alerted rival clubs.
And with Fulham thought to have tested the water, Taylor's future at the Liberty could depend on whether Laudrup can land left-back cover.
Swansea are thought to be weighing up making a second bid for 21-year-old Jeffrey Schlupp of Leicester after having an initial £2.5m bid rejected for the winger who can cover defence.
And Reading's former Nottingham Forest defender Garath McCleary has also been mentioned as a potential target.
But it was clear Laudrup was ruling nothing out when asked on Taylor, although stressed the imminent arrival of his second child after his wife Jenna-Lea went into labour.
Asked about a second bid, Laudrup played coy and said: "I don't want to comment on that. When I talk about facts it is when something is done one way or another.
http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/swansea-city-admit-neil-taylor-6653768? (http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/swansea-city-admit-neil-taylor-6653768?)
Transfer news: Fulham return with improved offer for Neil Taylor after Swansea reject £4m bid
Swansea manager Michael Laudrup has revealed Neil Taylor could make a deadline-day exit from the Liberty Stadium.
The 24-year-old left-back has found opportunities limited after a broken ankle suffered last season allowed Ben Davies to take his place.
Fulham have already had a bid of £4million rejected for the Wales international, but are believed to have made a new offer.
Laudrup made it clear Swansea will not sell Taylor unless he can bring in a replacement, and Press Association Sport understands the Welsh club have had a bid of £2.5million rejected for Leicester's Jeffrey Schlupp.
"Neil is here now and I don't want to go into discussion if he's staying or leaving because you can never know that," Laudrup said.
"What I've said about Neil is that I fully understand his position, especially after going what he's been through.
"But we will only sell him if we can get a replacement.
"Until midnight, everything is possible. That's why I don't want go into all the rumours."
A potential complicating factor in any move is that Taylor is currently with his wife, who is in labour.
But Laudrup would not confirm whether a second bid has been made by the Cottagers.
"I don't want to comment on that," he said. "When I talk about facts it is when something is done one way or another. We cannot inform you every time."
Swansea are also known to be interested in Norwich duo Anthony Pilkington and Wes Hoolahan, while a deal to bring Falkirk youngster Jay Fulton to south Wales is set to be completed.
PA
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-fulham-return-with-improved-offer-for-neil-taylor-after-swansea-reject-4m-bid-9099500.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-fulham-return-with-improved-offer-for-neil-taylor-after-swansea-reject-4m-bid-9099500.html)
Transfer news: Fulham return with improved offer for Neil Taylor after Swansea reject £4m bid
Swansea manager Michael Laudrup has revealed Neil Taylor could make a deadline-day exit from the Liberty Stadium.
The 24-year-old left-back has found opportunities limited after a broken ankle suffered last season allowed Ben Davies to take his place.
Fulham have already had a bid of £4million rejected for the Wales international, but are believed to have made a new offer.
Laudrup made it clear Swansea will not sell Taylor unless he can bring in a replacement, and Press Association Sport understands the Welsh club have had a bid of £2.5million rejected for Leicester's Jeffrey Schlupp.
"Neil is here now and I don't want to go into discussion if he's staying or leaving because you can never know that," Laudrup said.
"What I've said about Neil is that I fully understand his position, especially after going what he's been through.
"But we will only sell him if we can get a replacement.
"Until midnight, everything is possible. That's why I don't want go into all the rumours."
A potential complicating factor in any move is that Taylor is currently with his wife, who is in labour.
But Laudrup would not confirm whether a second bid has been made by the Cottagers.
"I don't want to comment on that," he said. "When I talk about facts it is when something is done one way or another. We cannot inform you every time."
Swansea are also known to be interested in Norwich duo Anthony Pilkington and Wes Hoolahan, while a deal to bring Falkirk youngster Jay Fulton to south Wales is set to be completed.
PA
http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-fulham-return-with-improved-offer-for-neil-taylor-after-swansea-reject-4m-bid-9099500.html (http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/transfer-news-fulham-return-with-improved-offer-for-neil-taylor-after-swansea-reject-4m-bid-9099500.html)
Fulham v Southampton – Premier League preview
Fulham host Southampton on Saturday looking to end a run of three straight Premier League defeats. The Whites currently sit inside the relegation zone and two points from safety, with their last win coming at Craven Cottage against West Ham on New Year's Day.
After going through a bit of a sticky patch, Southampton have seemingly turned a corner and are unbeaten in their last five games. Mauricio Pochettino's side come into this game off the back of an encouraging 2-2 draw against Arsenal at St Mary's, which should have ended in a win for the Saints.
When these two sides met earlier in the season, Southampton beat Fulham 2-0 in a very comfortable match for the South Coast side. Rickie Lambert and Jay Rodriguez were on the scoresheet that evening and both England forwards will be looking to add to their goal tallies.
History favours Fulham when it comes to ties with them and Southampton at the Cottage. The Saints last won a league match at Fulham in 1947 and since then have been unsuccessful in 15 attempts – eight of which have been defeats.
Rene Meulensteen's side are 3.60 to get a crucial win in their fight to stay up while the visitors are 2.25 to grab a win.
Team news
New loan signings William Kvist and Lewis Holtby might play a part for Fulham. Fernando Amorebieta is in line to return after a knee injury.
Lambert and Victor Wanyama could both return for Southampton.
Valencia set to hijack Fulham Heitinga move
John Heitinga's move to Fulham on loan for the rest of the season could be hijacked by Valencia according to Dutch news outlet da Telegraaf.
Heitinga's future has been cast into doubt at Everton and his move out of the club has been said to decide whether new players sign for the Blues or not.
The Dutch international signed for Everton in 2009 from Atletico Madrid but has fallen down the pecking order at the club with youngster John Stones being given the nod ahead of him on several occasions this season.
A move to Fulham still looks likely to be the most viable option, but Valencia could come in with actual money which would be much more preferable to Everton.
Read more: http://www.nsno.co.uk/everton-news/2014/01/valencia-set-to-hijack-fulham-heitinga-move/#ixzz2rzha1XXx (http://www.nsno.co.uk/everton-news/2014/01/valencia-set-to-hijack-fulham-heitinga-move/#ixzz2rzha1XXx)
Follow us: @nsno on Twitter | nilsatis on Facebook
Swansea's Neil Taylor's wife goes into labour on the day Fulham try to sign him
Neil Taylor's wife has gone into labour at the most inconvenient time – with Fulham desperate to sign the Swansea left back before the 11pm transfer deadline.
Taylor has not attended Swansea's training ground today with wife Genna is about to give birth to their second child.
Fulham, who attempted to sign the Wales left-back earlier in the transfer window, have returned with an improved offer believed to be in the region of £4million.
Taylor, who joined Swansea from Wrexham three years ago, has seen his progress at the Liberty Stadium hampered by injury and the emergence of Ben Davies.
Swansea manager Michael Laudrup, who has named the 24-year-old in his provisional squad for tomorrow's trip to West Ham, insisted: 'We will only sell him if we can get a replacement. Until midnight anything is possible.'
Meaanwhile, Jacks striker Rory Donnelly has joined League One side Coventry on loan until the end of the season.
http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/swanseas-neil-taylors-wife-goes-into-labour-on-the-day-fulham-try-to-sign-him-4285557/? (http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/swanseas-neil-taylors-wife-goes-into-labour-on-the-day-fulham-try-to-sign-him-4285557/?)
Fulham back in for Hammers' star
Fulham have made another move for West Ham star Ravel Morrison - as they try to snatch him from the claws of Manchester City who have dramatically entered the race.
The 20-year-old midfielder has been unsettled at the east London club and was reported to be interested in a move across town to Fulham last month following a deterioration in his relationship with Sam Allardyce.
While the pair are understood to have patched up their differences for now Morrison still wants a move away.
And following the shock news that Manchester City have made an enquiry for the player - possibly with Joleon Lescott going the other way - Fulham's interest has once again been aroused.
With any deal with City hinging on Lescott going to the Hammers - far from a certainty given his wage demands - it means Fulham could snare the talented player as Allardyce decides he needs everyone pulling in the same direction for the relegation dogfight ahead.
http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39486-fulham-back-in-for-hammers-star.php#.UuvPfv0cKbA (http://www.sportsdirectnews.com/premier-league-news/39486-fulham-back-in-for-hammers-star.php#.UuvPfv0cKbA)
Fulham Sign Mitroglou(http://www.fulhamfc.com/-/media/Placeholder/Players/Kostas%20Mitroglou/KostasRene350.ashx?w=350&h=250)
Fulham Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Greece international Konstantinos Mitroglou on a four-and-a-half year deal for an undisclosed fee, seeing the player at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2018.
The 25-year-old striker arrives in West London from Olympiakos where he has netted 14 times in this season's Greek Super League, making him the league's top goalscorer.
Mitroglou started his career in Germany before moving to Olympiakos in 2007 where he made 148 appearances, scoring 62 goals, in six seasons. He helped his team to three Super League titles, three Greek Cups and one Greek Super Cup.
On the international scene, Mitroglou has scored eight goals in 28 appearances for his country. He scored three crucial goals in Greece's two-legged World Cup Qualifying Play-Off victory against Romania last November, sending his nation to this summer's 2014 World Cup Finals in the process.
Mitroglou made history as the first Greek player to score a hat-trick in the UEFA Champions League, notching all three goals in this season's 3-0 win away at Anderlecht in the Group Stages.
"I'm very happy that I'm here in the Premier League, and especially with Fulham which is a major club in the league," Mitroglou told the official website. "I'm here because I want to fulfil the Club's targets and I want to help the Club achieve their goals. I was really flattered that they wanted me so badly and I'm really happy to be here.
"I'm really happy that I will work with René Meulensteen. I know that he has a lot of experience in football. He explained to me how he works and I am really looking forward to working with him.
"I also spoke to Giorgos [Karagounis] before I came here and he told me only the best things about Fulham."
http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/fulham-sign-mitroglou? (http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2014/january/31/fulham-sign-mitroglou?)
Transfer news: Kostas Mitroglou completes deadline-day move to Fulham
(http://e0.365dm.com/13/11/16-9/20/Greece-v-Romania-Kostas-Mitroglou_3036268.jpg?20131115204357)
Kostas Mitroglou: Four hat-tricks this season
Fulham have completed the signing of Olympiakos striker Kostas Mitroglou.
The Greece international - prolific in his home country this season - joins on a four-and-a-half-year contract for an undisclosed fee.
West Ham made a late bid to rival Fulham for Mitroglou's signature, according to Sky sources, but the 25-year-old has opted for west London.
Mitroglou leaves Greece as the top scorer in the country's Super League, and his Champions League hat-trick at Anderlecht in October is one of four he has scored this season.
His arrival follows Fulham's loan deal for Tottenham's Lewis Holtby earlier on deadline day.
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9143779/? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11095/9143779/?)
Mitroglou verdict
As the January transfer window reaches a crescendo of activity, Sky Sports runs the rule over the high-profile movers in the Premier League. Hit or miss? Read our assessment and offer your own verdict here...
(http://e0.365dm.com/14/01/16-9/20/hit-or-miss-kostas-mitroglou-feature_3075709.jpg?20140131094406)
Kostas Mitroglou
To: Fulham
From: Olympiakos
Fee: £12.4million
Age: 25
Position: Striker
Nationality: Greek
Bio
Although born in Greece, Mitroglou grew up in Germany and played reserve-team football for Borussia Monchengladbach before returning to his homeland with Olympiakos. After several loan spells elsewhere, he enjoyed a breakthrough season last year and has further developed his game in the 2013/14 season with a strike rate of better than a goal per game in the Greek Super League.
He says
"My success is the result of a lot of hard work over the years. Some years have passed since 2007, when I kicked on in the Monchengladbach youth and reserve teams. During this time I have always tried to improve myself constantly. Of course, it has required a lot of patience and also a little bit of luck."
They say
"As the Greek league is less on the front of the stage, there is less talk of Mitroglou. He is discovered when playing international matches. I'm happy for him because this is a guy who has both a physical presence and a sense of finishing.... This is a true finisher. He must try to evolve to a higher level to see what he really is capable of. In any case, all the major European clubs will certainly be alert. When you look at his statistics, we cannot ignore him." - Arsene Wenger, Arsenal manager.
Hit?
Lethargy in front of goal has been a problem for Fulham this season but there seems little danger of that with Mitroglou. The Greece international is one of the in-form strikers in European football and bagged a Champions League hat-trick as recently as October in the 3-0 win at Anderlecht. This is a player who could link up well with Lewis Holtby and turn Fulham's season around.
Miss?
Goals in Greece are one thing but Fulham need a striker who can hit the ground running and deliver immediately. With some fitness concerns surrounding the player, the bedding-in period will be short and expectations high. Can Mitroglou cope with the spotlight that comes with the huge fee and the responsibility of getting Fulham winning again?
Verdict
It's a lot of money but there's a lot of money at stake for Fulham as they are playing for their Premier League future. Mitroglou has the tools to fire them to safety and make this considerable outlay look like a good investment. Expect him to make an impact.
http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11096/9143736/mitroglou-verdict? (http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11096/9143736/mitroglou-verdict?)
Fulham beat West Ham to Olympiakos striker Kostas Mitroglou
Fulham have completed the signing of Greek international Kostas Mitroglou despite strong interest from West Ham.
The Cottagers have been linked with the 25-year-old striker for some days, but the deal was called into question when West Ham boss Sam Allardyce made his interest known yesterday.
However Rene Meulensteen has sealed the signing of Mitroglou from Olympiakos, on what is reported to be a four-and-a-half-year deal.
The striker has scored 21 goals in 23 appearances for club and country this season, including a Champions League hat-trick against Anderlecht.
It is believed the Cottagers will have to pay upwards of £11m for his services, as he joins Lewis Holtby, William Kvist and Clint Dempsey as arrivals at Craven Cottage this month, with the trio all signing loan deals.
Holtby arrived earlier today from Tottenham, where he had struggled to get game time under both Andre Villas-Boas and Tim Sherwood.
http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/fulham-beat-west-ham-to-olympiakos-striker-kostas-mitroglou-4285713/? (http://metro.co.uk/2014/01/31/fulham-beat-west-ham-to-olympiakos-striker-kostas-mitroglou-4285713/?)
