John Egan reportedly self-isolating and is a doubt for Fulham clash
John Egan is a doubt for the Premier League match with Fulham because independent.ie reports the Sheffield United defender is self-isolating.
It's after being in close contact with an unnamed Republic of Ireland player who has tested positive for Covid-19.
Egan is currently away on international duty with his country. He played no part in Sunday's 0-0 Nations League draw with Wales because of this latest development.
The player tested positive upon returning from the playoff defeat to Slovakia on Thursday. A second test confirmed the original result.
Four of the squad had been in close contact with them and had to self-isolate as a result. As well as Egan, that included Callum Robinson, Alan Browne and Callum O'Dowda.
This was a separate incident to that in which of member of the backroom staff also tested positive. This turned out to be a false positive, but still ruled out Aaron Connolly and Adam Idah because of their close proximity to them on a plane.
Why John Egan could now miss Fulham fixture
As per government advice, those who have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for Covid-19, must then self-isolate for 14 days.
If that person is then tested themselves and it comes back negative, they must still complete the two weeks' quarantine.
This is not specific guidance for sportspeople. Yet it would suggest that Egan could well miss Sunday's match with the Cottagers.
Even if the positive result was returned last Thursday, the centre-back would still not have completed 14 days by this weekend.
Of course, Egan could still test positive himself. It's something which is likely considering he has been in close contact with someone with coronavirus.
Either way it creates selection problems for Chris Wilder ahead of the visit of Fulham to Bramall Lane. Wilder is already without Jack O'Connell at the back in what has been a stuttering start to the new season for the Blades.
They have lost all four of their league games so far. Wilder is hopeful of bringing in a new defender before Friday's deadline to cover for the absence of O'Connell.
With Egan no potentially out as well, it could now be even more vital.
https://www.sheffieldunited.news/news/john-egan-reportedly-self-isolating-and-is-a-doubt-for-fulham-clash/
Borussia Dortmund fail in bid to sign former Bristol Rovers loanee Timmy Abraham from Fulham
The Fulham U23 striker saw a move to Germany collapse on deadline day
Timmy Abraham, who spent part of last season on loan with Bristol Rovers, saw a move to Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund collapse on deadline day, according to reports.
The 19-year-old striker played just 75 minutes across four substitute appearances for the Gas after joining on loan in January.
But Transfermarkt reports the Fulham prospect, brother of England and Chelsea star Tammy Abraham, was on the verge of making the move to the Westfalenstadion last week, only for the deal to fall apart due to paperwork issues.
Abraham was set to join Dortmund on loan with a €2.2million option to buy next summer.
He would have been part of the BVB under-23s squad initially, with a view to promotion to the first team in the future.
Dortmund are believed to have been impressed with Abraham's "robust manner and speed" on the pitch, according to German news outlet Ruhr Nachrichten. The teenager also impressed U23 boss Ingo Preuß with his character in extensive discussions about a deal.
Transfermarkt reports the deal was agreed, but the move was blocked with necessary documents not submitted on time. The website reports Dortmund could return in January to finally complete the transfer.
Abraham would have become the fourth Englishman on Dortmund's books, with Jadon Sancho, Jude Bellingham and Jamie Bynoe-Gittens already playing for the black and yellow.
Abraham has four goal in 23 appearances for Fulham's development XI.
He struggled for playing time for Ben Garner's Gas, failing to make a start, but the manager did praise him for his hard running style and "nuisance factor".
https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/borussia-dortmund-fail-bid-sign-4597720
#DontPayTheGame
On Friday, the Premier League announced that games not selected for live TV would be available to watch, but only on Sky and BT's box office services for a price of £14.95 per game.
Up until now, behind-closed-doors games had been made available on Sky, BT, Amazon Prime and the BBC. While most of these weren't free-to-air, many football fans had accepted the situation, and plenty had signed up for services so they could continue to follow their club while attending games wasn't permitted.
Misjudged the mood
In my opinion, the Premier League's decision has wildly misjudged the mood and appetite of fans across the country. For years, fans have suffered from rising ticket prices, rising TV subscriptions and crazy scheduling, often at minimal notice.
Many football fans accept that watching the sport will never be free, and the Football Supporters Association's advice that fans will be prepared to pay £10 per match is fairly sound (as has been seen in the EFL with their iFollow service)
While on the face of it, £15 is not far above that price, what it forgets is that with over 60% of games televised, it means that Premier League fans must have subscriptions to Sky, BT and Amazon if they wish to watch all their team's games. These subscriptions can run into the £100s per month already, so asking fans to fork out £15 on top is pretty galling.
#DontPayTheGame
So rather than just moan on a blog, I thought I'd create something, hence #DontPayTheGame.
The only way the Premier League will reverse their decision is a mixture of outcry and boycott. I appreciate it's difficult to miss games, but by not paying the £15 PPV price and finding alternate ways to watch/follow the games, we will make a difference.
It's not my place to tell you where to spend your cash, but your local non-league club will appreciate your £15 much more. Or, as Newcastle fans have done, give it to charity instead.
If other football fans/pods/blogs want to get involved using #DontPayTheGame, then you are very welcome. Our design man Adam has created a bunch of logos that you are free to use, and a generic template of this article that you are welcome to tweak and post.
If enough people resist paying for these games, then maybe the 19 Premier League clubs who voted for this decision will re-think their strategy, and maybe consider the reaction of fans more carefully before they make similar decisions in the future.
Dropbox Link with assets and generic article can be found here: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/9kvjwaes5wpkobb/AAC1YAGpsq82P4SZBC6Zacy2a?dl=0
https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2020-10-12-dontpaythegame/
Cameroon Back In Action(https://images-v2.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/7440bb60-0c6d-11eb-84f4-9bb29e7fac78.jpg)
Following their heroics in the European Championship Play-Offs a few days earlier, Marek Rodák and Aleksandar Mitrović were both unused substitutes in the Nations League on Sunday, watching on as Slovakia and Serbia each lost 1-0, to Scotland and Hungary, respectively.
Stefan Johansen was not involved in Norway's 4-0 victory over Romania.
On Thursday, André-Frank Zambo Anguissa was given a start in Cameroon's first match in 11 months, as they were held to a goalless draw by Japan in the Netherlands, while Ola Aina started on the bench for Nigeria's narrow 1-0 defeat by Algeria.
Left-back Ziyad Larkeche saw both France Under-19 games against Germany cancelled following a minor Covid-19 outbreak.
The same went for our three Scottish boys, Connor McAvoy, Ibane Bowat and Kieron Bowie. Their first of two games against England was called to a halt in the 43rd minute, after Scotland Head Coach Billy Stark tested positive for Covid-19. Prior to the cancellation, Bowat was given a start in defence, with McAvoy and Bowie on the bench.
The repeat fixture on Sunday was also subsequently postponed.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/october/Cameroon-Back-In-Action/
Aston Villa And Fulham Showing Late Said Benrahma Interest But West Ham Still Lead
Brentford winger Said Benrahma is attracting late interest from Aston Villa and Fulham, but West Ham remain in the driving seat to secure his signature, according to The Athletic.
The Algeria international has been the subject of transfer interest from a multitude of Premier League clubs throughout the transfer window.
However, West Ham put themselves into the driving seat on Sunday by agreeing a deal worth up to £30m with Brentford to sign Benrahma.
It has also been suggested the 25-year-old winger is scheduled to undergo a medical with the London-based club on Wednesday after returning from international duty.
But now David Moyes' side could be in line to face competition from league rivals Aston Villa and Fulham, who could make a late push to hijack the Hammers' swoop.
However, despite the late interest from the Villans and the Cottagers, West Ham remain in pole position to sign Benrahma from Brentford.
It remains to be seen if any other suitors can hijack the Irons' deal for the winger before the domestic transfer window slams shut on Friday.
Roy Hodgson's Crystal Palace were another club that mulled a move for Benrahma, but never seriously pursued a deal for the former Nice star.
https://insidefutbol.com/2020/10/12/aston-villa-and-fulham-showing-late-said-benrahma-interest-but-west-ham-still-lead/477048/
Report: There is late interest in Brentford's Said Benrahma from Aston Villa and Fulham despite West Ham United agreement
According to The Athletic's David Ornstein, Aston Villa and Fulham have joined the race for Brentford winger Said Benrahma ahead of Friday's EFL transfer deadline.
However, West Ham United remain favourites having agreed a £30 million deal (including add-ons) with the Championship outfit for the signature of the 25-year-old.
Villa secured the services of Benrahma's former Brentford teammate Ollie Watkins earlier this summer, and it appears that manager Dean Smith is still keen on the Algerian.
Fulham are also in need of attacking firepower following a woeful start to their Premier League campaign, and boss Scott Parker could do with the services of a player who has scored 19 goals since the start of 2019-2020.
Benrahma is currently with Algeria on international duty, and a medical with West Ham is scheduled for Wednesday once he returns.
He has also been linked with Leeds United and Crystal Palace, but it's the Hammers that have met Brentford's valuation, and he is expected to be at the London Stadium club in the coming days.
Personal terms with West Ham still need to be finalised, though, and that means Villa and Fulham still have a chance should they meet Brentford's asking price and convince Benrahma.
https://sportslens.com/report-there-is-late-interest-in-brentfords-said-benrahma-from-aston-villa-and-fulham-despite-west-ham-united-agreement/318020/
Aston Villa and Fulham could attempt to hijack deal for Brentford star
West Ham United are favourites to sign Brentford winger Said Benrahma but their deal could be hijacked by Aston Villa and Fulham according to The Athletic's David Ornstein.
Benrahma is valued at around £30million and it has been reported that the Hammers have met that price tag and are closing in on completing a deal but late Premier League interest from elsewhere could scupper the transfer.
West Ham are set to discuss personal terms with the Algerian and are still the front runners to sign him with Crystal Palace – who were also believed to be interested – now seemingly out of the running.
The winger scored 17 goals and contributed eight assists last season as he helped guide Brentford to third in the Championship table before they eventually lost to Fulham at Wembley in the play-off final.
It appears that negotiations between West Ham and Benrahma are at an advanced stage and both Villa and Fulham would need to act fast if they are seriously looking to steal the Championship star from under the Hammers' noses.
Benrahma was one of the standout players in the second tier last season and it is no surprise that there are a whole host of clubs competing for his signature.
Brentford will be disappointed to lose another one of their star players having already lost top scorer Ollie Watkins who made the move to Aston Villa earlier this summer but it appears they are destined to lose another of their devastating trio.
West Ham will be keen to tie up the deal as soon as possible with other clubs now sniffing around as they look to bolster their attacking ranks with the signing of another Championship star following the arrival of Jarrod Bowen from Hull City back in January.
https://the72.co.uk/196327/aston-villa-and-fulham-could-attempt-to-hijack-deal-for-brentford-star/
What is the latest with Anthony Knockaert amid Nottingham Forest transfer links?
Chris Hughton may look to strengthen his Nottingham Forest squad before the end of the transfer window, which slams shut on Friday evening.
The 61-year-old will be keen to get to grips with his new group of players and get the balance of the squad right before the window closes, having admitted that he may look to make a signing before Friday.
13 new players have arrived at the City Ground this summer, adding to an inflated squad which now consists of over 30 first-team players.
But one area of the squad that you feel still needs strengthening is out wide, with the Reds being linked with a move for Fulham's Anthony Knockaert, as per The Athletic.
Knockaert has proven to be a quality player in the Championship in the past, winning promotion to the Premier League three times before with Leicester City, Brighton and Hove Albion and Fulham.
The Frenchman won the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Season award in 2016/17 as Hughton's Brighton side won automatic promotion, with Knockaert scoring 15 goals and adding nine assists.
He's since joined Fulham and won promotion with the Cottagers, but Forest are now said to be interested in signing the winger on loan having failed to make an appearance in the Premier League this term.
Knockaert joined Fulham initially on loan last summer, but made his move to Craven Cottage a permanent one for around £10million at the end of the season.
Hughton has recently commented on the reported interest in Knockaert, remaining coy on the speculation linking the 28-year-old with a move to the City Ground.
Via Nottinghamshire Live, he said: "A new manager has come in, so we are going to be linked with quite a few players.
"Of course the obvious way of linking is somebody I've managed before. I think that's quite obvious. But all of these are always speculation.
"We'll do the best work we can, and we'll try the hardest we can on anything we do coming in – and keep it under wraps the best way possible.
The most important thing is to determine the squad, because the players who are here are going to be most important."
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/what-is-the-latest-with-anthony-knockaert-amid-nottingham-forest-transfer-links/
Exclusive: Fulham in advanced talks to sign 26-yr-old in big Sheffield United blow
Fulham are in advanced talks to sign Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo, Football Insider can exclusively reveal.
The Premier League club have been working on a potential deal for the centre-back for at least a month.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Fulham have now secured a breakthrough in discussions with Huddersfield and are confident of completing a deal by Friday evening.
The Championship outfit are keen to trim their wage bill after slashing costs following their relegation in May 2019.
Trading between Premier League and EFL clubs is allowed until 5pm on the 16 October.
Fulham have made it a priority to sign another defender after a difficult summer was followed by a poor start to the campaign.
Scott Parker's side have lost all four of their Premier League matches and conceded 11 goals along the way.
This site broke the news in the middle of last month that Fulham had opened talks over signing Kongolo, who cost Huddersfield £18million when they signed him in 2018.
He spent the second half of last season at the west London club but only played two matches due to a foot injury.
The Holland international, 26, is keen to return to the Premier League after making 45 appearances in the competition.
He has failed to add to his 60 Huddersfield appearances this season, partly due to injury but manager Carlos Corberan has revealed that uncertainty over his future is also a key factor.
https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-fulham-in-advanced-talks-to-sign-26-yr-old-in-big-sheffield-united-blow/
5 most concerning aspects of Premier League proposals pushed by Man Utd and Liverpool
Man Utd and Liverpool have pushed for a dramatic overhaul to the Premier League and English football with their 'Project Big Picture' causing plenty of concern for fans
The English football pyramid could be set for a drastic overhaul as Manchester United and Liverpool lead 'Project Big Picture'.
Proposals revealed by The Telegraph have shown the drastic changes being planned in an 'extraordinary overhaul'.
Much has been made of what has been described as a 'power grab' by top clubs and met with widespread condemnation from across the football world.
EFL chairman Rick Parry insists the drastic overhaul would be for the "greater good of the game" and includes several financial packages to support those lower down the pyramid as football grapples with the costs of the COVID-19 pandemic.
But several elements of the detailed proposal are cause for concern - here's a look at five points which are most worrying for football fans.
1) Long-term shareholders
The obvious concerns over the proposals come surrounding the shareholder system it plans to introduce.
The nine clubs who have been members of the Premier League continuously for more seasons than the other clubs will, under the proposals, be considered 'Long-Term Shareholders'.
At present, the nine clubs would comprise of Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham, Everton and Southampton.
Two-thirds of those 'long-term shareholders', just six of the nine teams, would be given power to make decisions without approval from other clubs.
That would include election or removal of board members, amendments to cost control rules and regulations and sale of league broadcasting and media rights.
They could also prevent changes to rights distribution and change distribution packages, as well as being able to block approval of proposed new owners for other clubs.
Ultimately, the proposals would give the nine 'long-term shareholders' power to make decisions without approval of the rest of the league and simply add to their monopoly over the top flight and decisions impacting all clubs.
2) Loan system
Top clubs have become increasingly willing to splash the cash on young prospects, often spending millions to take young talent from clubs far before first-team level.
For example, Manchester City signed Jadon Sancho from Watford before selling him to Borussia Dortmund for a significant profit without ever playing a senior game.
Ethan Ampadu headed to Chelsea after just a handful of appearances as a 16-year-old for Exeter City and has so far spent his Blues career out on loan, one of a number of youngsters in a similar position at Stamford Bridge.
The pair are far from alone - and top clubs having a growing monopoly over teenage talent looks set to increase under the new proposals.
Clubs in League One and below would no longer be required to have an academy, something which could help them save costs but also discourages investment in young talent.
That is offset by clubs being permitted to loan out up to 15 players domestically, giving those able to invest in buying young players the freedom to store more youngsters in their squads.
In the short term, EFL clubs may benefit from loan signings, with up to four permitted to head from a single English club to another.
Yet it is the top clubs able to harvest the most talent and stock their academies with top young players, most of whom will never play for the club, who will benefit the most.
As with all the proposals, there are incentives for lower clubs - such as loanee clubs receiving payments based on future performance or sale of loaned players.
Ultimately, however, those proposals will simply extend the monopoly that top clubs have on talent at a younger and younger age, which allows them to profit as they progress into senior football.
3) Pre-season tournaments
Amongst the most eye-catching proposals are plans to reduce the Premier League to 18 teams and scrap both the League Cup and Community Shield.
The plans for a less congested calendar for Premier League clubs are designed to allow time for a longer pre-season period extended to late August.
Pre-season tours have become lucrative business in recent years, particularly for top clubs with global commercial reach.
Clubs will be forced to participate in the Premier League summer tournament at least once every five years, seemingly enabling the competition to be built as a concept.
After plans for a 39th game were scrapped, plans for a longer pre-season seemingly serve as a new way to cash-in on global interest in the Premier League.
However, it will be the clubs with greatest international support such as Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United in line for the most lucrative benefits to strengthen their financial dominance.
4) TV rights
The new proposals would also see Premier League and English Football League TV rights on both a domestic and international level sold collectively by the Premier League.
It would seem inevitable that the motives of the Premier League would be to garner the greatest deal for themselves rather than the EFL.
Furthermore, the long-term shareholder situation highlighted above would give the select nine clubs the power to dominate the deal put together.
TV rights are big business for the Premier League and EFL, but the current deal could lead to increasingly unequal deals being struck which are not necessarily beneficial to all parties.
5) Media rights
Aside from the sale of TV rights, the new proposals would also give Premier League clubs more power over their own media rights.
All clubs would be permitted to show limited in-match highlights on their own digital platforms.
Premier League clubs would also have exclusive rights to sell eight live matches per season directly via their own platforms in all international territories.
Inevitably, this would benefit the clubs with the larger global fanbases.
Manchester United, for instance, would generate far superior demand for their games compared to, say, Burnley.
Giving clubs the power to cash-in on their own media rights would only serve as another tool to increase the barriers to break into the 'big six'.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/5-most-concerning-aspects-premier-22832165
Huddersfield Town man in "advanced talks" over Fulham move
According to a report from Football Insider, Fulham are in advanced talks to sign Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo, dealing a blow to Premier League rivals Sheffield United.
Amid a long-term injury to Jack O'Connell, Sheffield United have been in the market for a new defensive option.
Huddersfield Town man Terence Kongolo has been linked with a move to Bramall Lane and now, it has been claimed that the Blades have received a blow in their chase for Kongolo.
As per a report from Football Insider, Fulham have entered advanced talks with Kongolo as they look to bring him back to Craven Cottage. The Dutchman spent last season loan with the Cottagers and now, it has been claimed that the could make a return to the club before the end of the domestic window.
Fulham are said to have been working on a deal for "at least a month" so it will be interesting to see if they can clinch a deal for Kongolo. A breakthrough is rumoured to have been made in negotiations and the club are "confident" of a deal being done.
Since signing for Huddersfield on a permanent deal after a successful loan spell, Kongolo has played in 60 times across all competitions for the club. He spent last year out on loan and now, it seems a permanent move away is on the horizon.
https://the72.co.uk/196376/huddersfield-town-man-in-advanced-talks-over-fulham-move/
Terence Kongolo transfer latest as Fulham renew interest after return to training
The centre-back has been linked with a move away from the John Smith's Stadium
The first transfer deadline has already passed, which means there will be no international move on the cards for Terence Kongolo.
But Huddersfield Town can still trade with fellow English clubs - might there be something on the cards there with Fulham and Sheffield United both having previously expressed an interest
Here's a round-up of what we know so far.
Who is interested in a move for Kongolo?
Sheffield United are confirmed to have made a serious enquiry as to the Dutchman's availability but have reportedly been put off by Kongolo's injury status, with rumours suggesting he may have failed a medical with the Blades.
Fulham were also certainly interested in a move earlier this summer. They took him on loan from Huddersfield Town earlier this year, only for him to break his foot less than ten minutes into his second appearance for them.
That trail also looked to have run cold with Scott Parker's side after they picked up Tosin Adarabioyo from Manchester City on a permanent deal before the intra-Premier League window closed on Monday.
However, it now appears that Kongolo's recent return to training with the Terriers may have rekindled Fulham's interest as they continue to look for defensive reinforcements, with Football Insider claiming the Cottagers are "in advanced talks" with Kongolo over a move.
What is Kongolo's injury status?
Terriers head coach Carlos Corberan has indicated that Kongolo has spent the summer working on an individual rehab programme to help him recover from the two surgeries he had on that broken foot.
Fellow possible departure Karlan Grant has also been training separately from the squad while he waits to see if a move to West Brom - or any other Premier League club - is going to go through.
However, a video released by Town last week showed that Kongolo was not only back doing at least some ball work, but that he is now mixing in with other members of the first team squad who are returning from injury.
However, no timescale has yet been provided as to when Kongolo is expected to be back available for competitive action.
Would Town be happy for him to leave?
Terriers head coach Carlos Corberan has indicated as much, saying: "I think he is going to be one of the players that has options to not stay with us in the next year."
Kongolo is believed to be on pretty substantial wages at Town and his current deal runs to 2022, so getting him off the wage bill would take a fairly hefty commitment off their financial projections.
Even with Kongolo gone Town would have plenty of options at centre-back with Christopher Schindler, Richard Stearman, Tommy Elphick, Naby Sarr, plus youngsters Rarmani Edmonds-Green and Romoney Crichlow all on the books.
Though the club and Corberan alike insist every player has a clean slate under the new boss, it is also worth mentioning that Kongolo fell out of favour under former boss Danny Cowley last season after some poor performances, hence his move to Craven Cottage in January.
On top of all that, new signing Sarr is left-footed - like Kongolo - and Corberan has said he would ideally like to have a centre-back pairing of one right footer and one left footer.
Why do Sheffield United want a centre-back?
The long and short of it is that Jack O'Connell is likely to miss the rest of the season after suffering a serious knee injury.
That means the Blades are now on the lookout for a replacement as they look to get back to the excellent defensive form that saw them challenge for a European qualification spot last season.
Chris Wilder likes his defenders to be confident and capable on the ball and willing to get forward - something we know Kongolo can do having also previously played both at left-back and in a back three.
But our own Sheffield United writer Nathan Hemmingham indicates that Kongolo is no longer on the Blades' radar (Bladar) and they have shifted their attentions elsewhere.
Is a deal likely to be done and what happens if it's not?
We understand that touted move to Fulham may still be on the cards and could be done before Friday's 5pm deadline.
As with Grant, we are told that if Kongolo doesn't move then he will be expected to compete for a place in Corberan's side.
With so much competition that will be a bit of a challenge for the defender regardless of his transfer fee or wages.
Do Town want to sort out a permanent move or another loan?
We understand both Fulham and Sheffield United expressed interest in a permanent transfer and we suspect that would be Town's preference.
The Dutchman remains Town's record signing having arrived at the club for a reported £17.5m fee in 2018 and any money they can recoup on that investment would be a welcome addition to the club coffers.
But as we've said they are also keen to reduce their wage bill and have plenty of other centre-back options, so a loan deal would not be without its appeal.
https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/kongolo-transfer-huddersfield-fulham-talks-18985059
Fulham in advanced talks to sign 26-year-old from the Championship(https://cdn.footballleagueworld.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2020-01-26T134418Z_1801314313_RC2PNE9I3J14_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-MCI-FUL-REPORT.jpg)
Fulham are in advanced talks to re-sign Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo on a permanent basis, according to Football Insider.The 26-year-old centre-back spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage, but was reduced to making just two appearances after having his campaign cut short in February due to a nasty a foot injury he suffered in the second of those against Blackburn.
That problem forced the Netherlands international to undergo surgery on two occasions to fix the damage, and he hasn't featured since sustaining the problem at Ewood Park more than eight months ago.
Kongolo returned to Huddersfield, and according to Yorkshire Live, is no longer injured and recently returned to training, which has opened the door for Fulham to complete a transfer, despite the potential risk of recovering from such a long-term issue.
Football Insider believe that Scott Parker's men are confident of getting the deal done before Friday's 5pm domestic deadline – with Huddersfield happy to remove Kongolo from their wage bill.
The VerdictFulham have made a disastrous start to their Premier League return and know that the next five days could go a long way to deciding their season.
Parker desperately needs defenders through the door and Kongolo is a big step in the right direction.
The Dutchman will know all about successful relegation battles, too, after playing 13 times for the Terries when they produced a monumental effort to avoid an instant return to the Championship two seasons ago.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-in-advanced-talks-to-sign-26-year-old-from-the-championship/
REPORT: Fulham and Aston Villa Show Late Interest in Brentford's Said Benrahma
Despite reportedly reaching an agreement with Brentford for Said Benrahma, West Ham United still face the tough test of getting the deal over the line following late interest from both Aston Villa and Fulham, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic.
Ornstein also reported, however, that the Hammers are still in pole position to secure the services of the winger after reaching an agreement with Brentford.
Either way, the 25-year-old looks set to finally realise his Premier League dream after reaching almost every height possible in England's second tier.
Fulham and Aston Villa Show Late Interest in Benrahma
Key Moment for West Ham
Should they complete the deal for the Brentford winger, West Ham will have themselves one of the most exciting players to watch in England. Benrahma's close control can turn a routine day into one to forget for any opposition defender and will be as entertaining as ever to watch in the Premier League.
The deal would signal the slamming down of a statement by West Ham, too, that the discomforts of the bottom half are no more, and perhaps an upsurge towards the stability of mid-table, and even the realisation of Europa League dreams is the new possibility.
It could even be said that this is West Ham's most crucial part of the season as they look to fend off the reported late interest from Aston Villa and Fulham. Were they to miss out on the deal now, the uproar would undoubtedly begin to settle in once more, both within the fans and those on the pitch at the London Stadium.
With a deal reportedly agreed between West Ham and Brentford, however, and a medical expected Wednesday, it may not be long before Said Benrahma's arrival to the so-called promised land of the Premier League is confirmed.
https://lastwordonsports.com/football/2020/10/12/report-fulham-and-aston-villa-show-late-interest-in-brentfords-said-benrahma/
Aston Villa & Fulham named as clubs showing late interest in Said Benrahma
West Ham agree deal for Benrahma
Said Benrahma was one of the Championship's standout stars last term.
All told, in 43 outings, the winger would net 17 and provided nine assists.
Unsurprisingly, such impressive exploits had led to speculation that a number of Premier League clubs were eyeing a move for the African.
Crystal Palace would find themselves linked over the summer.
But in recent days, it is West Ham who have appeared to have taken the lead in the race for Benrahma's signature.
It was even reported on Sunday evening by the reliable David Ornstein that West Ham and Brentford had agreed a £30m fee for Benrahma:
Aston Villa & Fulham linked with Benrahma
However, after providing the news West Ham fans wanted to hear on Sunday, Ornstein has since put out a slightly less positive update on Monday.
The Athletic reporter does claim that West Ham are still currently in the driver's seat when it comes to landing Benrahma.
However, it is also reported that fellow Premier League outfits Aston Villa and Fulham are showing late interest in the Brentford star.
Ornstein also adds that though Crystal Palace considered the winger, they were never seriously pursuing him:
https://www.101greatgoals.com/news/transfers/aston-villa-fulham-named-as-clubs-showing-late-interest-in-said-benrahma/
Exclusive: Fulham respond to Nottingham Forest offer for Knockaert
Fulham have rejected an offer from Nottingham Forest for winger Anthony Knockaert, Football Insider can exclusively reveal.
The French winger, 28, completed a permanent move to the west London outfit in July for a fee of £10.5-11million after a season on loan.
That has not discouraged new Forest boss Chris Hughton, who managed Knockaert while he was at Brighton.
A Fulham source has told Football Insider that Forest's offer to take Knockaert on loan for the season has been rejected.
It is a blow to Hughton, who believes the French winger has the ability to add a new dimension to his side's attack.
He made a huge impact during his three seasons at Brighton, where he scored 27 goals and supplied 25 assists in 139 matches.
Knockaert did enough during his season on loan at Craven Cottage to secure a permanent move in July on a four-year contract.
But he has not had a single minute of Premier League action in the new campaign for the division's bottom club.
The former France Under-21 international's only involvement has come in the EFL Cup.
He started all three of Fulham's matches in the competition before their hopes of a fifth-round berth were ended by 3-0 derby defeat to Championship side Brentford.
Knockaert, who also played for Leicester City for three years after first joining them at the age of 20, has a far more impressive record in the second tier than he does in the Premier League.
https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-fulham-respond-to-nottingham-forest-offer-for-knockaert/
Report: Dortmund to move for Fulham's Timmy Abraham in January after legal details scuppered summer move
According to Kicker, Borussia Dortmund haven't given up their attempts to sign Fulham's Timmy Abraham and will move again for the striker in January.
Abraham, the younger brother of Chelsea's England international Tammy Abraham, is similarly a centre-forward currently playing in Fulham's U23 side.
The 19-year-old is highly-rated, prompting interest from far in the summer.
Kicker claim Dortmund tried to sign him on loan with the option of a permanent deal, but legal details scuppered a move ahead of the October 5 transfer deadline.
Dortmund have a recent history over signing young players with huge potential. Jadon Sancho and Erling Haaland are both superstars, while the German club signed 17-year-old Jude Bellingham from Birmingham City in a deal which could surpass £30 million.
Abraham originally started out at Charlton before joining Fulham in 2017, later penning his first professional contract with the Whites in 2018.
The young talent can play both as a striker or out wide. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Bristol Rovers, making four appearances before the global health crisis.
Fulham have a talent on their hands. However, he remains some way off first-team level with the London club needing experience in their Premier League fight for survival.
Dortmund are seemingly looking to add him to their Dortmund II side who play a full 42-game campaign while the U23 side compete in the European youth competition.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/10/12/report-dortmund-to-move-for-fulhams-timmy-abraham-in-january-after-legal-details-scuppered-summer-move/
Man Utd and Liverpool's Premier League and EFL proposals are insulting and disgusting
The owners of Manchester United and Liverpool are offering incentives to lower league clubs in a bid to install themselves as unopposed rulers of the English game... and it is disgusting
The Premier League's elite clubs, led by Liverpool and Manchester United, are using the global pandemic to seize control of football.
You've got an economic slow down, folk losing their jobs and clubs banned from letting fans into their grounds, and football's top dogs have decided to make their move.
They are offering incentives to the lower reaches, to install themselves as the unopposed rulers of the game, cementing a status as the unopposed aristocracy.
I find it is insulting, insensitive and it makes a mockery of a semblance of solidarity from top to bottom.
I am disgusted that they think they can get all the power and the vetoes to run the Premier League, by bunging the desperate club's below some much needed cash. Anger can't express what I feel.
A good start to amend the Project Big Picture would be to move forward with the financials of this plan but not the power play.
Giving a £250m bail-out, yes. Give the £100m to the FA, yes. All as proposed.
Yes, we should have a mission statement of what the Premier League is all about.
Number One: "The league, as a guardian of the game will give 25percent of TV revenues to the EFL clubs, because we realised Wimbledon, Tranmere and Oxford are as important as Man U and Liverpool. One cannot survive without the other."
But uncouple that from the elite having total control to reshape the pyramid.
If we give the top six (Man U, Man City, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal and Spurs) and the three other long standing members of the Premier League (Everton, West Ham and Southampton) all the power we will get to a position where the balance is so bad we will have Premier League B and C teams in League One and Two.
We will have 16 year-old youth players playing against proper pros.
We will even have those nine clubs being able to stop a club like Newcastle United being taken over by a rich owner because it would make them a threat.
What we have had for over 100 years could be frittered away in two or three years. Are we prepared to do that?
We accept the monetisation of the game, being called customers, but not this precious pyramid being ruined, and made even less competitive than it already is.
During the first period of the Premier League '92 to 2000, as a player I thought the dark days of dreadful facilities and stadium disasters were over.
It was a new product regenerating English football and that everyone would benefit. More people watched on TV, Klinsmann, Juninho, Cantona came over here to play, and everyone enjoyed it.
The football was multi-faceted, Liverpool and Man U at one end, Wimbledon at the other. Different styles, lots of characters.
It felt like an opportunity to kick on and support the pyramid more. Stafford, Kettering, Chorley, everyone benefiting from a trickle-down.
The statement on Sunday was an insult to those early hopes, and what it could have been. It has become about more and more money.
How much can we make for ourselves? Emboldened by Sky, BT, the Champions League. Second kits, third kits, EA Sports special edition kits. The ambition to be the world's biggest sporting product, bigger than the NBA or NFL.
I am appalled by my old club Liverpool's role. Or rather with owners FSG.
The club of Shankly and managed by Klopp, who is a person who I'd deem a socialist and community minded.
They have defaulted to type and become greedy Americans who want more power and cash to enable their club to be permanent football overlords.
For FSG, ultra-capitalists, it is about having more say, more power. They are saying: Just give us control, leverage to make even more money, maybe in a European super league, or bargain more with TV companies.
The Premier League elite have got away with it forever, becoming detached from the traditional fan base.
https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/man-utd-liverpool-premier-league-22833014
Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo in advanced talks with Fulham
FULHAM are in advanced talks to sign Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo.
The Dutchman saw a recent move to Sheffield United stall due to concerns regarding his fitness with Blades chief Chris Wilder having inquired about bringing in the 26-year-old as a potential replalcement for Jack O'Connell, sidelined this season after knee surgery.
Kongolo, who has not played for the Terriers for nearly a year, spent a loan spell at Fulham earlier this year, but broke a bone in his foot less than ten minutes into his second appearance for them.
He underwent an operation to have metalwork put into the foot.
The Craven Cottage outfit, in the market for new recruits in their back line after a difficult start to the Premier League campaign, have maintained their interest in Kongolo and are now making a move ahead of this week's domestic transfer deadline for clubs - at 5pm on Friday.
Kongolo, who joined Huddersfield for a club record fee in the summer of 2017 after a successful initial loan spell from Monaco, is contracted until the summer of 2022 and is one of the club's remaining big earners, with Town keen to get him off their wage bill.
Speaking about his future ahead of the season, Town head coach Carlos Corberan said: "I think he is going to be one of the players that has options to not stay with us in the next year."
https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/huddersfield-town-defender-terence-kongolo-advanced-talks-fulham-3000962
Report: Sheffield United's league rivals in advanced talks to sign £18m man targeted by Blades
Sheffield United's next opponents, Fulham, are in advanced talks to sign Terence Kongolo after his Blades move stalled, according to The Yorkshire Post.
It is claimed that United had concerns about the fitness of the Huddersfield Town defender, who has missed much of 2020 with a broke foot.
Kongolo spent the first half of the year on loan at Fulham, but only played twice.
And the Cottagers do not appear to share Sheffield United's unease.
Kongolo is reported to have cost Huddersfield a club-record £18 million fee in 2017, and with two years left on his contract the Terriers are 'keen to get him off their wage bill', according to The Yorkshire Post.
It remains to be seen where United will turn, with Kongolo seemingly off the market.
The Blades, who can now only recruit players from EFL clubs or free agents, have been linked with moves for the respective Preston North End and Bournemouth defenders, Ben Davies and Diego Rico.
The Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder has made no secret of his desire to strengthen in Kongolo's position ahead of Fulham's visit to Bramall Lane on Saturday, having lost Jack O'Connell to a serious knee injury.
https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/10/12/report-sheffield-uniteds-league-rivals-in-advanced-talks-to-sign-18m-man-targeted-by-blades/
Fulham in advanced talks to sign Terence Kongolo
Fulham are in advanced talks to sign defender Terence Kongolo from Huddersfield Town, a report from Football Insider claims.
The Cottagers have made a disappointing start on their top-flight return and they have failed to register a single point from the first four games of the season.
The central defence has been a weakness for them, but they managed to bolster their options with the arrivals of Joachim Andersen (loan) and Tosin Adarabioyo before the international transfer deadline.
Still, they appear to be eyeing further reinforcement at the heart of the backline and it is reported that they are close to landing the signature of Kongolo from the Terriers.
Earlier this month, it was claimed that Sheffield United were leading the hunt for the Dutchman, who could fill the void left by Jack O'Connell's long-term knee injury.
However, it now seems that the Cottagers have jumped ahead in the pursuit and they have made the breakthrough in the negotiations to sign the centre-back.
Kongolo spent time on loan with the Cottagers during the second half of last season. He made just two appearances before his campaign was curtailed by a foot injury.
Despite this, he managed to leave a good impression and the Dutchman looks set for a reunion with the west London outfit before Friday's 5pm domestic deadline.
Kongolo, who has earned four caps with the Netherlands, is primarily a centre-back, but he can also comfortably play in the left-back position.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
https://sportslens.com/fulham-in-advanced-talks-to-sign-terence-kongolo/318071/
Nottingham Forest's chances of signing PL star suffer blow
Nottingham Forest's chances of signing Fulham's Anthony Knockaert have been knocked back after the Londoners rejected a bid for the attacker, according to Football Insider.
The Frenchman spent last season on loan at Craven Cottage before signing permanently for the Whites prior to the end of the Championship season for a reported €16, (transfermarket).
However, Knockaert hasn't been involved in any of Fulham's Premier League matches this their promotion – with his only appearances this term coming in the EFL Cup.
And once Forest appointed Chris Hughton as their new boss, he set his sights on a reunion with the Frenchman, although the Insider believe that Fulham have rejected their loan approach.
Knockaert was one of Brighton's key players when the two were at The Amex together and helped secure their promotion to the Premier League for the first time back in 2017.
But Hughton's chances of working with the 28-year-old once again are in the balance after this latest setback.
The Verdict
Judging by their opening four league matches, Knockaert appears surplus to requirements in west London, and you get the feeling that this transfer could still get completed at some stage.
Signing Knockaert could be potentially season-changing for Forest, and whilst Fulham don't need require him, the two clubs should be able to come to some sort of agreement, whether that's on loan or permanently.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/nottingham-forests-chances-of-signing-pl-star-suffer-blow/
Medical today: Fulham agree £3m deal for international – Exclusive
Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo is undergoing a medical at Fulham today, Football Insider can exclusively reveal.
The Londoners have agreed a deal with the Championship club for the centre-back, 26, to join on a permanent deal.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Fulham are likely to pay a fee of around £3million for Kongolo after beating Sheffield United to his signature.
It will reunite the Holland international with the club where he spent the second half of last season on loan.
Kongolo only played two matches for Fulham due to a foot injury but that has not stopped them pursuing a permanent deal this summer.
The transfer is set to represent a huge loss for Huddersfield, who signed the Dutchman for a fee reported to be £18m in 2018.
This site broke the news in the middle of last month that Fulham had opened talks over signing Kongolo permanently and it was revealed yesterday those discussions had reached an advanced stage.
Huddersfield are keen to trim their wage bill after slashing costs following their relegation in May 2019.
Fulham have made it a priority to sign another defender after a difficult summer was followed by a poor start to the campaign.
Scott Parker's side have lost all four of their Premier League matches and conceded 11 goals along the way.
Kongolo has failed to add to his 60 Huddersfield appearances this season, partly due to injury but manager Carlos Corberan has revealed that uncertainty over his future is also a key factor.
https://www.footballinsider247.com/medical-today-fulham-agree-3m-deal-in-big-sheffield-united-blow-exclusive/
Report: Huddersfield Town man closing in on Premier League move
Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo is undergoing a medical today (Tuesday) ahead of a proposed move to Fulham, a report from Football Insider has claimed.
Kongolo spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham, where injury restricted him to just two appearances for the Cottagers as they won promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs, although it seems that has not put the London club off a permanent move for the 26-year-old.
It was previously reported that Fulham were keen to bring Kongolo back to Craven Cottage this summer as they look to strengthen the centre of their defence for this Premier League season, and it now looks as though they have got their man.
According to this latest update, Kongolo is set to undergo a medical at Fulham on Tuesday, with Scott Parker's side having beaten off competition from Premier League rivals Sheffield United to secure the signing of the Dutchman.
It is thought that Fulham will pay Huddersfield around £3million for the centre back, a significant reduction on the reported £18million the Terriers paid Monaco for his services back in 2018.
During his time with Huddersfield, Kongolo made 60 appearances in all competitions for the Yorkshire club, scoring once.
The Verdict
This looks like it could be a decent move for Fulham.
They have already strengthened the centre of their defence recently with the additions of Tosin Adarabioyo and Joachim Andersen on the final day of the international transfer window.
Now, the seemingly imminent arrival of Kongolo means they will have another reliable option to call upon as they look to recover from what has been an awful start to their return to the Premier League.
For Huddersfield however, the amount of money they are losing on Kongolo will obviously be frustrating, but it does seem as though a parting of the ways is best for all concerned, and this will at least clear some cost off the wage bill.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/report-huddersfield-town-man-closing-in-on-premier-league-move/
Kongolo set to join Fulham
According to Football Insider, Terence Kongolo is set to join Fulham in the next week.
The domestic transfer window is not yet closed in England, and according to Football Insider, Fulham are in advanced talks with Huddersfield Town over Kongolo.
The Dutch international was loaned to the Premier League side last season, but only played once for the club due to a foot injury.
The former Feyenoord and Monaco defender has been linked with a move back to Fulham for months and the deal is set to be completed before Friday.
http://www.football-oranje.com/kongolo-set-to-join-fulham/
