Fulham hoping to sign Manor Solomon this week as club revive £5.9m deal
Fulham have revived their pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk ace Manor Solomon and hope to seal a deal this week, the Daily Mail has reported.
Fulham were said to be closing in on a deal to sign Solomon back in April.
However, it emerged that their pursuit of the Israeli international looked set to collapse and new clubs were entering the battle to secure his signature.
But now, a fresh report from the Daily Mail has provided a new update on the situation.
It is claimed that Fulham's deal to sign Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk in a £5.9m move is now back on track. The Cottagers are hoping they can seal the move for the 22-year-old this week as they bid to waste no time in their efforts to prepare for life back in the Premier League under Marco Silva's management.
Filling the gap left by Carvalho...
Losing Fabio Carvalho to Liverpool may have been expected by many at Fulham this summer, so recruiting a player to replace him will have been of the utmost importance at Craven Cottage.
The bid to sign Solomon is certainly a step in the right direction. Like Carvalho, he can play in behind the striker as a number 10 or out on the left-wing. It will be hoped he can adjust to English football quickly and hit the ground running for Silva's side.
Solomon isn't quite as much of a goal threat as Carvalho with a record of 22 goals in 106 games.
However, he has plenty of experience at the top having sustained his place in the Israel squad since earning his first call-up in 2018 and has played Champions League football for Shakhtar. Not only that, but he has time to get better and better at only 22.
Should a deal get done, Fulham fans will be excited to see how Solomon fares.
https://the72.co.uk/275584/fulham-hoping-to-sign-manor-solomon-this-week-as-club-revive-5-9m-deal/
West Ham left-back is a transfer target for London rivals this summer, high-level insider claims
West Ham United left-back Arthur Masuaku is allegedly a transfer target for newly-promoted Fulham this summer.
That's according to club insiders Claret and Hugh who claim that Fulham boss Marco Silva is keen to sign his former player this summer.
Silva managed Masuaku during his stint in charge of Olympiacos.
Masuaku joined West Ham from Olympiacos in the summer of 2016 for around £6 million (The Times).
He has really impressed at times for the Hammers but he has disappointed in equal measure and if we're being honest, there has been far more of the latter than the former.
David Moyes clearly doesn't trust the 28-year-old in the left-back role and it seems as though he could now be set for a summer transfer away from the London Stadium...
West Ham left-back wanted by Fulham
Claret and Hugh reckon that Masuaku is a transfer target for Fulham boss Marco Silva this summer.
Aaron Cresswell and Ben Johnson are both well ahead of the 28-year-old in the left-back pecking order at the London Stadium.
It could even be argued that youngster Emmanuel Longelo is a better option than the former Olympiacos man.
Claret and Hugh claim that West Ham boss David Moyes is willing to sell Arthur for around £5 million.
David Moyes absolutely should sell Masuaku if he can this summer.
Whilst West Ham will probably be lucky to get £5 million for the 11-capped Democratic Republic of Congo international, moving him on for a small fee would be a very sensible move this summer.
And if Fulham really do want to sign the West Ham left-back this summer, then we should just let them have him.
Masuaku clearly isn't good enough to be playing Premier League football on a consistent basis. And the sooner Moyes gets rid of players like the 28-year-old, the better as far as we're concerned.
https://www.hammers.news/club-news/west-ham-left-back-is-a-transfer-target-for-london-rivals-this-summer-high-level-insider-claims/
Fulham look set to sign winger Solomon
Fulham are poised to complete the signing of Israeli winger Manor Solomon from Shakhtar Donetsk.
The Whites have been interested in the 22-year-old for some time and had hoped to bring him to Craven Cottage during the winter transfer window only for talks between the two parties to falter.
However, a deal is now close to completion for Solomon, who scored for the Ukranian side against both Manchester City and Real Madrid in the Champions League in recent seasons, to move to SW6.
https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-look-set-to-sign-winger-solomon
Fulham plotting €12m move for Porto's Zaidu Sanusi
Fulham are planning a €12m transfer swoop for 25-year-old Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi, reports from Portugal have claimed.
Fulham's bid to prepare for life in the Premier League will hopefully see some fresh faces come through the doors at Craven Cottage.
A host of names have already been linked with the Cottagers and now that the summer transfer window is officially open, it will be hoped some early ground came be made up on the recruitment front.
Plenty of left-backs have been linked with Fulham. Javi Galan, Alex Moreno and Arthur Masuaku are among those to be mentioned as targets and now, the Cottagers have been credited with interest in Porto man Sanusi.
As per Portuguese outlet Jornal de Noticas (via Sport Witness), Fulham 'intend' to make an offer of €12m (around £10.2m) for the left-sided Nigerian defender. However, the report goes on to state Porto will not let Sanusi move on for less than €20m (around £17.1m).
More on Sanusi...
The Lagos-born defender, who turns 25 today (Monday), has spent his entire career to date playing in Portugal.
He started out with Gil Vicente before joining loan club SC Mirandela permanently, earning a move to CD Santa Clara in 2019. After 26 appearances in his solitary season for the club, Sanusi earned a move to Liga Portugal giants Porto, who he remains with today.
Since then, Sanusi has played 81 times for the club, chipping in with five goals and one assist and becoming a Nigeria regular in the process.
He still has three years remaining on his contract with Dragoes and given his prevalent role in the club's starting XI, Porto are seemingly showing no interest in letting him go on the cheap amid Fulham's interest.
https://the72.co.uk/275590/fulham-plotting-e12m-move-for-portos-zaidu-sanusi/
Opinion: Adding Fulham man would single-handedly transform Hull City's 2022/23 ambitions
With the early summer transfer window indicating that Hull City may be ambitious when it comes to their chances of improving next season, it remains to be seen what deals will get over the line.
Following Acun Ilicali's completed takeover deal in January, the Tigers are set to have readily available funds to dip into, widening the scope for their summer business.
Possessing a good core to the squad, Shota Arveladze will be eager to continue adding to his squad, something that will bolster competition levels within the team and will raise expectations around the MKM Stadium too.
There have been some exciting names already rumoured with a move to Hull, however, topping the chart as the most impressive link thus far has to be Fulham's Jean Michael Seri.
With the Cottagers securing a Premier League return, they have opted not to extend his contract at Craven Cottage, so he will be a free agent when his contract expires at the end of this month.
A report from Football Insider at the end of last month claimed that the Tigers were one of the clubs interested in making a summer move for the 30-year-old.
An update from Hull Live has confirmed that conversations are still taking place between Seri and the Championship outfit, indicating that there is an expectation that an agreement can be met.
Adding Jean Michael Seri would not just bolster their chances of success because of the quality he possesses, but it would also represent a statement that Hull are planning to cause chaos in the second tier next season.
An excellent technician who reads the game excellently, he also possesses the athleticism and relentlessness that is needed to help dominate midfield battles.
Seri is someone that would slot straight into Hull's midfield, and when combining his potential arrivals with the rumours that are still flying around concerning incomings that are in the pipeline, then what a summer it could prove to be for the Tigers.
Of course, Hull will have to battle for the midfielder's services but given the direction they are evidently looking to head towards, there is every chance that the Tigers could be successful.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/opinion-adding-fulham-man-would-single-handedly-transform-hull-citys-2022-23-ambitions/
Internationals: Mitro Finds His Mark(https://images.webapi.fulhamfc.com/fit-in/1600x1600/ffe4c580-eaf6-11ec-8d69-9d1a74624211.jpg)
Aleksandar Mitrović marked his return to the Serbia lineup with a goal in their 2-2 draw in Slovenia.
Having missed their win over Sweden through suspension, Mitro was immediately restored to the starting XI and needed just 35 minutes to get on the scoresheet, doubling Serbia's lead, with a trademark downwards header into the far corner from Dusan Tadic's cross.
But Slovenia fought back in the second half, scoring twice in six minutes to earn a Nations League point.
The draw leaves Serbia sitting second in League A, Group 2, three points behind leaders Norway.
Elsewhere in the competition, Harry Wilson played 73 minutes of Wales' 1-1 draw with Belgium in Cardiff.
Youri Tielemans' strike looked to have secured victory for the Belgians, but Nottingham Forest's Brennan Johnson came off the bench to secure a late draw.
It gets Rob Page's side up and running in the Nations League, but the solitary point means they still prop up their group.
Marek Rodák made it two clean sheets in three Nations League matches as Slovakia claimed a 1-0 victory over Azerbaijan in Baku.
It's a result that opens up League C, Group 3, with Slovakia now just one point behind leaders Kazakhstan.
In the CONCACAF Nations League, Antonee Robinson played the first hour of the United States' 5-0 victory over Grenada in Texas.
It was a good start to the tournament for the USA, who close out their June international window with a second Nations League fixture against El Salvador on Tuesday.
At Under-23 level, Tyrese Francois played the entirety of Australia's 1-0 win over Turkmenistan, which booked their place in the Asia Cup Semi-Finals.
"We have huge respect for Turkmenistan who made it very tough for us," Francois said.
"They sat back which made it difficult to break them down but we knew if we stayed patient the chances would come, and fortunately they did in the end."
Australia will take on either Saudi Arabia or Vietnam in the Semi-Final on Wednesday.
George Okkas played just under an hour of Cyprus Under-21s' 5-0 European Championship defeat by Iceland.
At Under-20 level, Ziyad Larkeche was an unused substitute as France won the Toulon Tournament.
Finally, Michael Olakigbe and Harvey Araujo featured in both of England Under-18s' victories in Croatia last week.
In what is a four-team competition, the Young Lions kicked things off with a 3-2 victory over Austria, before seeing off Wales 2-0.
The Fulham youngsters both came off the bench in the first game, while Olakigbe was given a start against Wales.
They conclude their tournament against host nation Croatia on Monday.
https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/june/13/internationals-mitro-finds-his-mark/
Fulham disrespect West Ham United with outrageously low fee mooted for Said Benrahma
Fulham have completely disrespected West Ham United with the outrageously low fee mooted for attacker Said Benrahma.
According to Claret & Hugh, the west Londoners could launch a bid for the Algeria international whose London Stadium future remains uncertain.
Marco Silva is said to be a fan of the 26-year-old and could look to sign him amid the Cottagers' return to the Premier League in 2022/23.
A £12-15million transfer fee has been reported for the forward which is an absolute farce considering they signed him from Brentford for just under £21million in 2021.
Benrahma hasn't hit the heights he was expected to in east London but why on earth would David Moyes let the Algerian go for a fee that laughable – there is absolutely no chance.
Patience.
The report includes supposed interest from Fulham for Arthur Masuaku and Ryan Fredericks. These could be good sales for the Irons but if they are relative to the low price reported for the Brentford man – they can jog on.
To sell Benrahma now would be completely brainless from West Ham. What would be the point in investing so much money into a player to then give up on him a mere season later?
He was signed for a reason, he is a quality player – the left-winger simply needs a little bit more time to find his feet.
Having had a hand in seventeen goals last season in the Premier & Europa League, you can't help but feel the Hammers' ace is coming under a lot of unfair criticism.
Yes, he has been somewhat inconsistent but that is relative to his role in the team – If he could establish himself as a regular starter, those numbers would skyrocket.
The Irons have to be patient because the squad is already very thin and replacing Benrahma could prove very difficult in this market.
https://www.westhamzone.com/comment/fulham-disrespect-west-ham-united-with-outrageously-low-fee-mooted-for-said-benrahma/
"One year remaining on his contract" – Fulham in talks over Arsenal deal: The verdict
This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...
Fulham have opened talks with Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, according to The Athletic.
The German shot-stopper has entered the final year of his contract and the Cottagers are keen to capitalise as they look to gear up for life back in the Premier League after winning the Championship in 2021/22.
But would he be a good signing for Fulham? And do they need him?
Our FLW writers share their thoughts...
Marcus Ally
Poor old Marek Rodak, but, this would have to be classed as a very shrewd signing for the Cottagers.
Leno was, at times, a shining light in a difficult period after the departure of Arsene Wenger in North London, and the 30-year-old still has a lot to give, despite being displaced by Aaron Ramsdale.
Alphonse Areola had a good season for Fulham in 2020/21, and they were still relegated without much of a fight, but an elite glovesman could be crucial once again, and it is very hard to argue with Leno's CV, in comparison to Rodak's.
There is a chance that Marco Silva would give Rodak a chance to stake a claim at the start of the season, but it is unlikely that the German would move to Craven Cottage if he was not assured to be first choice.
With one year remaining on his contract, it would be smart business.
Simmey Hannifin-Donaldson
This could be a great signing for Fulham.
Having been linked with plenty of keepers ahead of the summer, it seems clear they are in the market for a shot-stopper and Leno would be a great option.
The 30-year-old is a fantastic goalkeeper, and has extensive European top-flight experience first with Bayer Leverkusen and then with Arsenal.
With one year left on his Arsenal contract, and having lost his place as number one at the club, it is likely a good deal could be struck for the shot-stopper, too.
The only concern here could be his wage demands, but if Fulham feel they can afford his salary, a move for Leno makes total sense for the Cottagers this summer.
Billy Mulley
This would be a top signing at Fulham, With Berndt Leno proving to be an excellent Premier League goalkeeper in recent years, that is despite falling down the pecking order.
Leno's reflexes and general shot-stopping abilities rank amongst the best in the division, whilst his composure and passing range is also at a good level.
Fulham are first and foremost looking to avoid the Premier League drop when the new campaign begins in a few weeks time, with the addition of a player like Leno definitely going to bolster their chances in achieving just that.
It would be a real coup if Fulham are able to get this one over the line, and whilst their goalkeeping department appears ready for the Premier League, an opportunity to sign Leno, that is within budgetary guidelines cannot be missed.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/one-year-remaining-on-his-contract-fulham-in-talks-over-arsenal-deal-the-verdict/
The 2022/23 Premier League new arrivals
A look at the three promoted teams!
The Premier League line-up for the 2022/23 campaign has now been finalised, with all the relegation and promotion spots filled for the upcoming season.
After Norwich City, Watford and Burnley were all relegated from the division, their places have been filled by Fulham, AFC Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest. You can take a look at our three new opponents for next season, below!
(https://dc6vmiz8c91pk.cloudfront.net/media/162/08461406635733/aaa_fulham.jpg)
Craven Cottage, the home of Fulham FC.
Fulham
Manager/head coach: Marco Silva
2021/22 Position: 1st - Championship champions
2021/22 Top scorer: Aleksandar Mitrovic, 43 goals
An impressive season for the Cottagers as they rampaged through the Championship division, securing promotion in style. Many had predicted that Fulham would indeed do well after suffering relegation the season before, but after appointing Marco Silva, they were near enough unstoppable.
Silva's side secured 90 points on their way to becoming champions, but it was the amount of goals that made everyone take note, scoring 106 times in their 46 games. Nearly half of those were from the prolific Aleksandar Mitrovic, who broke all records in front of him by scoring 43 times!
The Whites did travel to Craven Cottage in the 21/22 campaign for a hard-fought Carabao Cup tie, where penalties were needed for Leeds to progress into the next round after a goalless draw in normal time. Upon their next visit, the new capacity of the stadium will be 29,600 with the completion of a modern new stand along the river! The distance from Elland Road is 197 miles!
After being promoted three times and relegated twice in the last five years, Fulham will now be aiming to stay in the Premier League - a division they spent 13 consecutive years in, beginning early in the 2000's.
(https://dc6vmiz8c91pk.cloudfront.net/media/162/77320439824615/aaa_bournemouth.jpg)
Vitality Stadium, the home of AFC Bournemouth.
AFC Bournemouth
Manager/head coach: Scott Parker
2021/22 Position: 2nd - Championship runners-up
2021/22 Top scorer: Dominic Solanke, 29 goals
AFC Bournemouth are back in the Premier League after spending two years in the Championship, following relegation from the top-flight at the end of the 2019/20 season. The home and away fixture against Leeds this season will be the first time the two clubs have met in the Premier League!
After the departure of long-term manager Eddie Howe - who is now with Newcastle United - Scott Parker is now in charge of the Cherries and has followed in Howe's footsteps by securing promotion to the Premier League for the South Coast side. Parker has previously managed Fulham in the Premier League and will now be hoping for success with his new side.
Heading the attack for the club is England international, Dominic Solanke. The forward found the net an excellent 29 times for his club as they finished second in the standings, only bettered by the record breaking haul of Mitrovic. Having come through the ranks of Chelsea and also featured a number of times for Liverpool, the striker will now be looking to take his goal-scoring form into the Premier League next season.
The Vitality Stadium hasn't hosted a fixture against the Whites since September 2014, which resulted in a 3-1 victory for Leeds, after three goals in the final 25 minutes from Souleymane Doukara, Giuseppe Bellusci and Mirco Antenucci! The ground is one of the smaller ones within the Premier League, having a capacity of 11,379. The distance from Elland Road is 259 miles!
(https://dc6vmiz8c91pk.cloudfront.net/media/162/10069706182021/aaa_city_ground.jpg)
The City Ground from the adjacent River Trent, home of Nottingham Forest FC.
Nottingham Forest
Manager/head coach: Steve Cooper
2021/22 Position: 4th - Play-off winners
2021/22 Top scorer: Brennan Johnson, 18 goals
Nottingham Forest are the final team to confirm their place in the Premier League for the upcoming 2022/23 campaign, ending a 23-year exile from England's top division.
After starting their 2021/22 Championship campaign poorly, Steve Cooper was brought in to take charge of the team and he dramatically changed their fortunes. The former England Under-17 World Cup winning coach took his new side to the play-offs after a superb display of form, which saw them narrowly miss out on automatic promotion.
In the play-offs, a two-legged victory on penalties against Sheffield United sent Forest to Wembley, where a 1-0 success over Huddersfield Town meant they would be promoted to the top-flight.
Top-scorer for Forest in the 21/22 season was the impressive Brennan Johnson. The recently turned 21-year-old was pivotal throughout the campaign and backed up his goals with a double figure return on assists as well. Johnson is a full Welsh international will need to be watched closely by Premier League defences this upcoming season.
The capacity of the City Ground - which is a picturesque stadium on the banks of River Trent - is 30,445. The distance from Elland Road is 74 miles, making it one of the closer trips for Whites fans.
https://www.leedsunited.com/news/team-news/29958/the-2022-23-premier-league-new-arrivals
Middlesbrough want Ryan Fredericks
Ryan Fredericks is wanted by Middlesbrough, reports claim.
Fredericks, 29, will be leaving West Ham when his contract expires this summer. The right-back joined the club in 2018 but has gradually fallen out of favour, making just seven Premier League appearances last season.
He's been linked with a return to former cub Fulham ahead of their return to the Premier League but now, a report in The Mail on Sunday (12.06.21, via Hammers.news) claims that he could be about to join Middlesbrough.
Chris Wilder's side finished in 7th place of the Championship table last season. They missed out on a play-off spot by five points in the end but hopes are high that they can go one step further next season.
And Boro could yet have some money to spend this summer, with right wing-back Djed Spence being eyed up by a number of Premier League teams.
A real coup for Boro...
If these reports are to be trusted, then signing Fredericks will be a real statement for Middlesbrough.
It was said that he was set to sign for Fulham last month. But if Boro can beat Fulham to this signing then they will have a really experienced and quality player on their hands.
Fredericks is a lot like Spence in his attributes at right-back, with pace going forward and a steady-head whilst defending.
But Boro fans won't read too much into this one until a deal is done. Fredericks is set to become a free agent and will have plenty of suitors, which we can believe, but where he'll end up remains anyone's guess.
https://the72.co.uk/275643/middlesbrough-want-ryan-fredericks/
Fulham 'not in the race' for fullback – Cottagers interest in player dismissed
At the weekend, we covered Fulham being pointed out as a potential destination for FC Porto left-back Zaidu Zanusi.
It was claimed by Jornal de Notícias that the Cottagers 'intend to offer' €12m for the player, even though the Dragons are looking for a bigger fee this summer, willing to sell him if they get at least €20m.
Today, it's newspaper A Bola who writes about Zaidu, claiming that following the investment of €4m Porto made in 2020 to sign him from Santa Clara, the Dragons could now make five times that with his sale.
The outlet confirms that the 25-year-old could indeed be on his way to the Premier League, where there are two clubs of 'medium dimension' who'd like to bring him to England.
A Bola, however, claims Fulham are not one of the pair.
They point out there have been rumours saying Marco Silva's side have been chasing Zaidu, but according to their information, they're not in the race and have not made an offer.
So if the newspaper is to be believed, the admirers the fullback has in the Premier League are still to have their names revealed.
http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-not-race-fullback-cottagers-interest-player-dismissed/
Wales' Next Generation Look To Reach New Heights . . . As Neco Williams Gives Thanks To Manager Robert Page For His Support
Neco Williams has lavished praise on Rob Page for the manager's faith in giving youngsters their opportunities with Wales.
The Liverpool wing-back – who has carried his brilliant form on loan at Fulham this season onto the international stage – is one of a clutch of young Wales kids thriving under Page.
Williams was instrumental in the goal scored by Brennan Johnson in the 1-1 draw with Belgium last Saturday and is set to have a key role at the World Cup in Qatar later this year.
The young players will form part of the Welsh threat against the Netherlands on Tuesday night in a match that is live on S4C – although Williams could be rested as the burden of five games in less than two weeks starts to bite.
Like fellow 21-year-olds Johnson, Ethan Ampadu, Rabbi Matondo and Dylan Levitt, Williams has made great strides under Page since he took over from Ryan Giggs 19 months ago.
Then, there are other youngsters such as Rubin Colwill (20), Joe Rodon (24), Chris Mepham (24), Rhys Norrington-Davies (23), Dan James (24) and Sorba Thomas (23) who could also play a significant role at the World Cup finals in Qatar.
"The future is definitely looking in good spirits, but I'd like to thank the gaffer," says Williams.
"He's the one who has shown trust in us. He believes in us youngsters and he gives us the opportunity.
"I'm very grateful and I'm sure that goes for every other youngster out there playing as well. We know that if he plays us, and trusts us, then we have to go out there and perform.
"And we certainly have been performing recently and we have been getting results."
Williams had arguably his best game in Wales shirt in the World Cup play-off final victory over Ukraine last week and the Wrexham-born player has grown in stature under Page.
He won his 21st cap against the Belgians and such is his level of gratitude to Page's influence that he says the manager is among those foremost in his mind when he pulls on the red shirt for his country.
"Every time we go out there, we play for the badge and we play for Rob Page. He's the one believing in us and giving us the platform to perform.
"All we can do is go out and try and get results every time.
"The good thing about these Nations League matches is that they are not friendless. They are proper games. It takes us closer to the World Cup because we know when we get there, we will be up against the best teams in the world.
"Belgium are right up there, they are the No.2 ranked team in the world, so if we are showing we can hold our own against them then the sky's the limit for us at the tournament when we get there.
"The same goes for the Netherlands. They have some world class players and are a strong team, so it will be a really useful test for us."
One player Williams hopes can also continue to make an impact for Wales is Johnson.
Like Williams, who helped guide Fulham to promotion, Johnson will also be playing in the Premier League next season after a scintillating breakthrough campaign for Nottingham Forest that culminated in his club's Wembley play-off final win over Huddersfield.
"The sky is the limit for Brennan," says Williams.
"He's an unbelievable player – a joy to play with.
"When you have someone like that, who is just electric – with the pace and the skills he has – it makes it easy to play with him.
"I was buzzing he scored his goal because he had waited a long time for it. He had waited a while, so it was great."
The Dutch have been in excellent form since their exit from the Euro 2020 finals last summer at the hands of the Czech Republic.
They bowed out of the delayed tournament in the round of 16, but since former Manchester United manager Louis Van Gaal took charge they have been on an impressive sequence of 11 unbeaten matches.
Despite being held to a 2-2 draw by Poland in Rotterdam on Saturday, they top the Nations League group with a three-point lead at the halfway stage.
This is not an easy group," says Williams.
"This Holland game is going to be very tough. All we can do is give everything we've got and hopefully we can keep the results coming."
S4C – Tuesday, 7.25pm: Sgorio Rhyngwladol – Netherlands v Wales.
https://www.dai-sport.com/wales-next-generation-look-to-reach-new-heights-as-neco-williams-gives-thanks-to-manager-robert-page-for-his-support/
Exclusive: Frontrunner emerges as Nottingham Forest & Fulham battle for Liverpool player
Fulham are leading Nottingham Forest in the race to sign Neco Williams from Liverpool this summer, Football League World has been told.
The Welsh international, who has helped his country qualify for the World Cup over the current international break, is expected to leave Anfield in the summer due to a lack of game time.
With Trent Alexander-Arnold ahead of him in the pecking order, regular football is obviously going to be hard to come by, whilst the FA Cup holders are poised to sign Calvin Ramsay from Aberdeen as his deputy.
That should free up Williams to move on, with the Cottagers and Forest both keen on the 21-year-old. And, FLW have been told that it's Fulham who hold the advantage in that battle at the moment.
Williams spent the second half of the previous campaign at Craven Cottage, scoring two goals and registering two assists in 14 games as Marco Silva's won the Championship title.
Therefore, bringing him back to the capital has always been on the agenda for Silva.
However, Forest are sure to push them all the way, as Steve Cooper desperately searches for a right wing-back as they look set to miss out on signing Djed Spence permanently.
The England U21 international enjoyed a productive loan spell at the City Ground last season but he is now expected to join Tottenham.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/exclusive-frontrunner-emerges-as-nottingham-forest-fulham-battle-for-liverpool-player/
Transfer Talk: Marlon Fossey – A possible replacement for James Bree at Luton Town
(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fossey-Heatmaps.png)
Luton Town surprised a lot of fans in English Football in the recently concluded EFL Championship season, having finished sixth on the points table. This meant that the Hatters qualified for the Premier League promotion playoffs. One of the key men for Luton Town in the 2021-22 season was right-back, James Bree. He performed consistently well for the Hatters, but he has been linked to joining West Brom. The team from Bedfordshire may have to bring in a replacement if Bree does leave. One option could be Marlon Fossey, the right-back who played for Bolton Wanderers in League One on loan during the second half of the season. Here, we will dissect whether Fossey could be a good replacement for Bree at Kenilworth Road.
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Fossey joined Bolton Wanderers on loan from Fulham during the second half of the 2021-22 EFL League One season. He featured for the Trotters as a right-back in 15 games, playing for 1,343 minutes in the process before his torn meniscus injury in March kept him out for the rest of the season. During his game-time on the pitch, Fossey scored once and assisted five times, meaning he was involved in a goal every 223 minutes. Previously, the former USA U-20 international played in League One for Shrewsbury Town. Fossey has been most influential in the final third, showing that he is an attacking full-back.
(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fossey-Duels-location.png)
The above viz shows the locations of the duels won by Fossey for Bolton Wanderers in the recent EFL League One season. As expected, Fossey won most of his duels on the right wing. However, he won a variety of duels, including 50/50s, aerial duels and ground duels. He won some aerial duels but most of his victorious duels came in the form of ground duels and 50/50 loose ball duels. Most notably, the Los Angeles-born right-back has not won even a single aerial duel in the opposition's penalty box, showing his lack of aerial prowess in the final third.
(https://eflanalysis.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Fossey-Pass-Sonar.png)
Given in the above visual is the xT map, xT timeline and pass sonar of Fossey in the recently concluded 2021-22 EFL League One season for Bolton Wanderers. Fossey generated most of his threats from the right-hand side of the final third as well as in the opponents' penalty area. His xT score hovered just below the 0.4 mark, and most of his threat creation came from forward passes.
Marlon Fossey was a strong positive for Bolton Wanderers in the second half of the 2021-22 League One season as they finished in the top half of the table. However, he neither has the experience nor the ability to replace James Bree at Luton Town, especially as the Hatters look to challenge for promotion again next season.
https://eflanalysis.com/analysis/marlon-fossey-efl-league-one-2021-22-data-stats-analysis
Nottingham Forest sent Liverpool transfer demand amid Djed Spence competition
The latest Nottingham Forest transfer news from NottinghamshireLive as Reds fans react to the club's interest in Liverpool full-back Neco WilliamsAi
Nottingham Forest fans have given their reaction to the club's interest in Liverpool full-back Neco Williams.
Reports over the weekend linked the Reds with a move for the Wales international with speculation surrounding the future of Djed Spence. NottinghamshireLive understands that the interest in Williams is real with Forest also taking an interest in Manchester City full-back Issa Kabore.
It is said that Williams would cost in the region of £15 million, less than Middlesbrough's asking price for Spence. Although Liverpool are not desperate to sell this summer, the arrival of Calvin Ramsey, who looks set to move from Aberdeen, could make a sale more likely.
Williams impressed in a loan spell with Fulham during the second half of the season. He has also caught the eye while on international duty with Wales over the current break, the full-back setting up Brennan Johnson for his first international goal vs Belgium on Saturday.
A move for the 21-year-old could be made should Forest miss out on a move for Spence, with developments over his future expected over the next 48 hours. He is currently on international duty with England U21s, where he could feature vs Slovenia tonight (Monday).
Following the links to Williams, Forest fans took to social media to give their verdict. With some noticing a link up between the full-back and Johnson, here's what just some had to say.
Will H : One of the signings of the summer if we get him in. All round better defender than Spence imo and the link up play with Brennan will be good for Forest and Wales.
Wellesbournered : He plays LWB for Wales and looked strong in their recent games. I think he should be looked at whether we get Spence or not
Shaun : Great player. Be happy with him or Spence. Heart says Spence though.
John : Nico Williams for 10/15m > Djed for 20/25m May upset a few but I think they are both as good as eachother #nffc
Simon Holbrook : With the way things are going if we sign Neco Williams I'll be supporting Wales at the World Cup instead of England!......
NFFC only : We could possibly buy maitland Nile's and neco Williams for a little bit less than Spence . What a pair of WB's that would be
Michael Cooper : Great goal by Johno created by Williams Go get him Forest #nffc
Daniel R Evans : We need Neco Williams #NFFC
Peter Clarke : I'm loving links to top right-backs like Neco Williams from Liverpool. Hope we sign him but feel we all forgetting fact we need 2 left-backs to compete properly in Premiership. Love Colback but need proper LB & LWB next season #NFFC
https://www.nottinghampost.com/sport/football/transfer-news/nottingham-forest-liverpool-williams-transfer-7201718
The Aberdeen legend whose 50-year old hat-trick record was broken by Sadio Mané
Graham Leggat's remarkable claim to fame wouldn't be bettered until five decades later.
(https://i2-prod.aberdeenlive.news/incoming/article7199512.ece/ALTERNATES/s810/0_Fulham-v-Nottingham-Forest.jpg)
Graham Leggat was a phenomenal goalscorer and held the English hat-trick record (Image: Daily Mirror)
For a footballing record to stand for over 50 years, it has to be either astonishingly good or unenviably woeful.
Luckily for Graham Leggat, his was the former and the former Aberdeen star deserves to be in the pantheon of Scottish football's frontmen.
The winger was a ferocious forward and took swinging London by storm in the 1960's.
And it would be at Fulham where Leggat cemented a record that would last until three months before his death.
On Boxing Day 1965, Leggat scored the fastest hat-trick in the English football league with three goals in three minutes during a 10-1 rout of Ipswich Town. He later added another goal just for good measure.
It wouldn't be until 2015 that the record would be broken by a man who went on to establish himself as one of the finest footballers in the world.
Born and raised in Aberdeen, Leggat got his first break in football at Banks O'Dee before being snapped up by the Dons in 1953.
He made a huge impression on the Pittodrie faithful, blitzing past opponents on the right wing and scoring 92 goals in 151 appearances.
Leggat is forever woven into Aberdeen's rich tapestry, having been part of the first-ever league title winning side in 1954-55 and the following season's League Cup squad.
(https://i2-prod.aberdeenlive.news/incoming/article7199945.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Fulham-v-Ipswich-Town.jpg)
Graham Leggat (right) picks up the ball after scoring his record-breaking hat-trick (Image: Mirrorpix)
A lob over the goalkeeper in the final at Hampden Park made it all the sweeter for Leggat.
He would make his debut for the Scotland national team in 1956 and was the only Aberdeen player selected for the World Cup squad two years later.
Despite his phenomenal achievements in the north-east, the Dons were perhaps short-changed after selling Leggat to Fulham that year for £16,000.
Aberdeen's loss was Fulham's monumental gain.
(https://i2-prod.aberdeenlive.news/incoming/article7199963.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_Scotland-football-team.jpg)
Leggat (centre left) on Scotland duty with manager Andy Beattie, John White, Bertie Auld, Ian St John and Denis Law (Image: Mirrorpix)
A Granite City boy heading down to the English capital and sharing a dressing room with some of the true doyens of English football would have been an intimidating prospect.
But Leggat thrived in a Fulham squad which featured England captain Johnny Haynes, Jimmy Hill, Alan Mullery and Bobby Robson.
In 277 appearances, he would score 134 goals - the fifth highest tally in the club's history.
The hat-trick against Ipswich was a tremendous feat and he would score 12 other hat-tricks in his career, an undoubtedly impressive return for a winger.
Leggat would live long enough to have his record beaten as in May 2015, Sadio Mané, then of Southampton, decimated Aston Villa in a Premier League match.
After scoring on the 13th minute, the future Liverpool superstar would complete his hat-trick within two minutes and 56 seconds.
Leggat surprisingly departed Fulham in 1966 despite his outstanding contributions at Craven Cottage.
Short spells at Birmingham City and Rotherham United followed and Leggat later took the plunge and emigrated to Canada.
The Aberdonian would play an instrumental role in the development of football in the country after becoming the first head coach of Toronto Metros before becoming a beloved broadcaster and executive.
Leggat died in August 2015 aged 81, three months after Mané's hat-trick heroics.
(https://i2-prod.aberdeenlive.news/incoming/article7199993.ece/ALTERNATES/s615b/0_11295508.jpg)
Aberdeen fans unfurled a banner in Leggat's memory following his death (Image: SNS Group)
He was posthumously inducted into the Aberdeen Hall of Fame in 2017 and had been honoured by the Canadian Soccer Hall of Fame in 2001.
Leggat's lifelong success on and off the pitch, across two continents, prove he was far more than a one trick pony.
https://www.aberdeenlive.news/news/history/aberdeen-legend-whose-50-year-7199604
Bernd Leno's agent confirms transfer talks as Arsenal set for summer windfall
Bernd Leno's agent has confirmed that Fulham are 'trying hard' to sign the German goalkeeper from Arsenal as Mikel Arteta plots a squad rebuild
Bernd Leno's agent Joannis Koukoutrigas has confirmed that Fulham are 'trying hard' to sign his client from Arsenal.
Leno lost his place as the Gunners' first-choice keeper last season as Aaron Ramsdale consolidated his position between the sticks. Plus, Edu has already agreed a move for New England Revolution goalkeeper Matt Turner, who has revealed when he will be officially signing for the club.
The American shot-stopper will take part in half of the MLS campaign before travelling to north London later this month, becoming the Gunners' first signing of the summer transfer window.
Turner's arrival means that Leno is surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium. The Athletic reported over the weekend that Fulham are in talks to sign the German, who wants to stay in London.
Now, Koukoutrigas has confirmed that said reports are in fact true, whilst he also stated that Leno deserves to be Arsenal's No 1 ahead of Ramsdale. Speaking to German outlet BILD, via the Evening Standard, he said: "He is a German national goalkeeper, has always performed well at Arsenal and is an absolute team player.
"For me personally, Bernd is also the clear No.1 at Arsenal. With all due respect to the competitors.
"Fulham is trying hard to get Bernd. Very professionally. This is also true for some other clubs and shows his status. But, as I said, for me he is the No.1 at Arsenal and we are therefore also relaxed."
Leno would be Fulham's first signing of the summer, while they have already sold Fabio Carvalho to Liverpool and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa has joined Napoli. With Arsenal keen to sell, and as he has just one-year left on his contract, a purchase is a very real possibility.
Although Arsenal's demands aren't yet clear, the Gunners look set for an early windfall - money that can be re-invested in the squad as Mikel Arteta continues his rebuild project at the Emirates.
https://www.football.london/arsenal-fc/transfer-news/bernd-leno-fulham-transfer-arsenal-24214994
Preston North End interested in 28-year-old released from Fulham
Preston North End will have been relatively content with their solid 13th place finish in the table this season.
However, they will now be looking ahead to next season with a focus on strengthening the side in the hope that they can push further up the table towards the play-offs next season.
Ryan Lowe makes use of wing-backs in his side and currently has a vacancy to fill in this position.
The Lancashire Post have reported that one of Lowe's targets is Cyrus Christie.
The 20-year-old is available on a free transfer this summer having been released from Fulham following the end of his contract.
The player was on loan with Swansea for the second half of this season and he did well in Wales scoring three goals and contributing five assists in 22 Championship appearances for the side.
If Preston are targeting a move for the right-back then they will have to wait a bit longer to pounce with the 28-year-old currently on international duty with Republic of Ireland for the Nations League.
However, whilst there has been talks around his future, so far another side has not emerged as a favourite to make a move for him meaning Preston could land their man easily.
The Verdict:
This would be a good move for Preston ahead of the new season. The player fills a position that Lowe is looking to fill and he would do a quality job in that position.
His time with Swansea proved he can do a good job at this level and although his time at Fulham didn't go to plan, a solid run of games in a side could do the player some good.
It's fair to say Christie has had a rocky number of vears but a new permanent move could prove as a fresh start and go nicely with him making appearances for his international side now too.
https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/preston-north-end-interested-in-28-year-old-released-from-fulham/
Promoted teams in profile: Fulham
Our look at this season's three Premier League newcomers begins with the champions of the Championship, Fulham.
The Londoners secured promotion to the top flight for the third time in five years, but this time without the need for the nerve-shredding play-offs.
Instead Marco Silva's side hit the summit in November and never looked back, racking up an astonishing 106 league goals – the most in England – en route back to the big time.
Nearly half of the century came from talismanic striker Aleksandar Mitrović, who contributed a record-breaking 43-goal haul, but must now deliver in the Premier League if Fulham are to buck their recent trend of yo-yoing between the top two divisions.
Such was the Cottagers' prolific output, they became the first English team since Chester City in 1933 to score at least six goals in three consecutive matches.
It was fitting that the title was secured with a third 7-0 win of the season, this time over Luton who themselves made the play-offs, underlining Fulham's dominance.
The boss
Now with his fourth English club, Silva has transformed Fulham into a goalscoring machine who will not sit back in pursuit of survival.
The Portuguese enjoyed a 15-year career as a player in his homeland, retiring in 2011. A reliable defender, Silva did grace the top flight but played most of his football in the second and third divisions.
Immediately after hanging up his boots, he was appointed Director of Football at Estoril, the last club he played for, but soon transitioned into management.
An instant success, he led Estoril back to the Primeira Liga as champions after a seven-year absence, before taking the club into Europe for the first time.
He later won the Portuguese Cup with Sporting and the Greek league title with Olympiakos, where he achieved a run of 17 consecutive wins in domestic football.
His first job in the Premier League was with Hull, where he made an impressive impact but was unable to prevent relegation, before making a flying start to the following campaign with Watford.
Most recently in the top flight with Everton, Silva led the Toffees to an eighth-place finish in his only full season but was dismissed in December 2019 with the team in the relegation zone.
He was out of football for 18 months before dropping down to the Championship to kick-start his career in west London last summer.
One to watch
Unsurprisingly crowned EFL Player of the Year, Mitrović equalled the record for most goals scored in a Championship season (31) with 16 games still to play.
Another dozen goals took his final tally to 43, breaking the record for the highest-scoring English league campaign in its current 46-game format.
Although he is also prolific at international level, the Serb's doubters will point to his relatively modest return in the Premier League, with 81 of his 95 Fulham goals coming in the Championship.
The former Newcastle striker, who made his name in Belgium with Anderlecht, must produce his best form to give Fulham some much-needed stability at the top table.
A return of 46 international goals, a Serbian record, is proof of his credentials at the highest level, with that tally including a last-minute winner away to Portugal, securing his country's qualification for the World Cup in Qatar.
Saints connections
-Saints Academy graduate Harrison Reed has twice won promotion with Fulham – once as a loan player in 2019/20, before last season's triumph, in which he was a regular starter in midfield.
-Goalkeeper Paulo Gazzaniga joined Fulham from Tottenham last summer and made 15 appearances in all competitions, though he did lose his place to Slovakian stopper Marek Rodák in the autumn.
-Mario Lemina spent Fulham's last Premier League season, 2020/21, on loan from Saints, but was unable to prevent relegation before he was sold to Nice in France.
-Chris Baird, the youngest member of Saints' starting line-up in the 2003 FA Cup final against Arsenal, left for Fulham four years later, where he played in the Europa League final in 2010.
-Three other Saints who also featured in that final, Antti Niemi, Wayne Bridge and Fabrice Fernandes, also had spells at Craven Cottage.
Head-to-head record
Played: 67
Saints wins: 28
Draws: 22
Fulham wins: 19
Last five meetings
May 2021: Saints 3-1 Fulham (Premier League)
Dec 2020: Fulham 0-0 Saints (Premier League)
Aug 2019: Fulham 0-1 Saints (Carabao Cup)
Feb 2019: Saints 2-0 Fulham (Premier League)
Nov 2018: Fulham 3-2 Saints (Premier League)
https://www.southamptonfc.com/news/2022-06-13/promoted-team-in-profile-fulham-southampton-football-club-13-june-2022
Trying Hard – Arsenal Star's Agent Admits Club Attempting To Land Client
Bernd Leno's agent Joannis Koukoutrigas has confirmed that Fulham are trying hard to sign the Arsenal goalkeeper this summer.
Leno spent last season playing behind first-choice Aaron Ramsdale and he ended up making only four appearances in the Premier League.
Now newly-promoted Fulham are interested in securing the services of the shot-stopper, who has more than 120 appearances for the Gunners, and are claimed to have already started negotiations with Arsenal.
Koukoutrigas extolled the qualities of his client, insisting that the goalkeeper has always turned up for the Gunners and despite no longer being first-choice at the Emirates, is the number one goalkeeper at Arsenal.
He is a German national goalkeeper, has always performed well at Arsenal and is an absolute team player", Koukoutrigas said to German daily Bild about Leno.
"For me personally, Bernd is also the clear number one at Arsenal.
"With all due respect to the competitors."
The agent admitted that Fulham are trying their utmost to secure Leno this summer but pointed out that some other clubs are also in the mix.
"Yes, Fulham are trying hard to get Bernd", Koukoutrigas added.
"Very professionally.
"This is also true for some other clubs and shows his status.
"But as I said, for me he is the number one at Arsenal and we are therefore also relaxed."
Leno's contract with the Gunners expires next summer and with no contract extension looming on the horizon, the north London club may cash in on him ahead of next season.
https://insidefutbol.com/2022/06/13/trying-hard-arsenal-stars-agent-admits-club-attempting-to-land-client/563146/
Fulham interest in Bernd Leno boosted as alternative ruled out
Fulham's interest in Bernd Leno is growing as it appears increasingly unlikely they'll be able to land Alphonse Areola as an alternative.
The Evening Standard are the latest outlet to report that Fulham are interested in a move for Arsenal's Bernd Leno this summer. The goalkeeper held talks with Edu before the end of the season and they agreed he could leave.
David Ornstein initially broke the news of the Fulham talks, with Sky Sports later confirming contact between the two clubs.
One thing to note in Ornstein's report was that Leno was one of a list of options for Fulham. Though he's their preferred candidate, they had alternatives lined up on a shortlist.
One of these options was seemingly Alphonse Areola of Paris Saint-Germain. Areola spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan with Fulham, before joining West Ham in another loan deal last season.
Fulham had looked at bringing him back following their promotion. But the Standard report that West Ham are the frontrunners to keep the goalkeeper instead.
That may well increase Fulham's focus on Leno, with Arsenal open to selling after agreeing a deal to sign Matt Turner.
On the one hand, Arsenal would lose arguably the best backup goalkeeper in the Premier League in Leno, but that seems somewhat inevitable at this stage.
By staying in the Premier League, Leno would have to face Arsenal a couple of times a season, which is another negative.
But the upside is that Fulham might actually pay a reasonable fee – unlike any of the European clubs. Plus, whilst Leno playing against Arsenal is bad news, it's balanced out by the fact Leno will face all the other big Premier League sides too.
If it's what Leno wants, he's always been a good professional for Arsenal and deserves a say in his next step.
https://dailycannon.com/2022/06/fulham-interest-in-bernd-leno-boosted-as-alternative-ruled-out/
Fulham target Bernd Leno after failing to agree Thomas Strakosha terms
Fulham are interested in signing Bernd Leno from Arsenal after failing to agree terms for Thomas Strakosha, 90min understands.
Marco Silva's side are on the hunt for a new goalkeeper after securing promotion back to the Premier League.
The Cottagers were hoping to conclude a deal for Albania international Strakosha, who is available on a free transfer after leaving Lazio. However, the two parties have failed to agree on terms and Fulham are prepared to look elsewhere in the market.
One name on their radar is Germany international Leno, who lost his place as Arsenal's starting goalkeeper to Aaron Ramsdale last season. Newcastle are also understood to be interested after backing away from a deal to sign Dean Henderson from Manchester United.
Leno's agent, Joannis Koukoutrigas, has confirmed to BILD that Fulham are interested in his client's signature, but there is still belief he can revive his Gunners career.
"[Leno] is a German national goalkeeper, has always performed well at Arsenal and is an absolute team player. For me personally, Bernd is also the clear number one at Arsenal. With all due respect to the competitors," he said.
"Yes, Fulham is trying hard to get Bernd. Very professionally. This is also true for some other clubs and shows his status. But as I said, for me he is the number one at Arsenal and we are therefore also relaxed."
90min also understands Fulham have resumed talks with Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon after walking away from a proposed deal last month.
https://www.90min.com/posts/fulham-target-bernd-leno-after-failing-to-agree-thomas-strakosha-terms
Fulham have deal in place to sign Manor Solomon
Newly-promoted Premier League side Fulham have reportedly agreed on a deal to sign Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon.
According to the Daily Mail, Fulham are set to sign Shakhtar Donetsk winger Manor Solomon, and a deal is believed to be in place for the 22-year-old's transfer to the English club. Fulham recently gained promotion to the Premier League for the 2022/23 season after finishing top of the EFL Championship table.
The Cottagers are understandably eager to strengthen their squad ahead of the 2022/23 season in a bid to prolong their stay in the English top-flight this time. Fulham had a deal in place to sign Solomon for £5.9 million in April, but the transfer did not materialise.
However, Fulham have revived their interest in the Israeli international and are now set to complete his signing this week. Solomon was forced to flee from Ukraine and move to Poland following Russia's attack on the former. And like many other Shakhtar Donetsk players, he will likely leave the club for good in the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old winger had joined Shakhtar Donetsk in the 2019 winter transfer window and has since made 106 appearances for the Ukrainian club. Solomon has scored 22 goals and prodived nine assists for them across all competitions thus far.
As per the Daily Mail report, Solomon's representatives Shlomy Ben Ezra and Pini Zahavi played a key role in finalising the deal with Fulham and finding a new club for their client to represent. The 22-year-old also became the youngest Israeli player to score in the UEFA Champions League in the 2020/21 season.
Fulham lost star attacker Fabio Carvalho, who joined Liverpool on a free transfer. He has signed a five-year deal with the Premier League giants. And the Cottagers have identified Solomon as an ideal replacement for the 19-year-old.
The newly-promoted Premier League club are reportedly in talks to sign Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, who has fallen down the pecking order at the Emirates following Aaron Ramsdale's arrival. Fulham are also in the market for a striker and are battling West Ham United for the signing of Watford's Emmanuel Dennis.
http://www.thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2022/06/13/fulham-have-deal-in-place-to-sign-manor-solomon/
Arsenal transfer news: Leno agent takes shot at Arteta and Ramsdale amid positive update on Prem switch
The agent of Bernd Leno appeared to take a swipe at the Arsenal goalkeeping situation after providing a positive update on his proposed move to Fulham.
Leno had been Arsenal's No 1 between the sticks in each of his first three seasons in north London. However, last year's arrival of Aaron Ramsdale saw the German quickly relegated to bench duties.
Indeed, Ramsdale was given the nod on matchday four and never looked back. He quickly established himself as a dependable option and rarely gave Leno a sniff.
Leno made just one more league appearance after August. That came when Ramsdale was ruled out against Aston Villa in March with a hip injury.
With American Matt Turner already signed and arriving this summer, Leno's time at the Emirates is due to conclude.
He has one year remaining on his deal, meaning Arsenal won't be able to recoup his true value.
Indeed, a report from Portugal detailing Benfica's interest claimed Arsenal are only seeking £8.5m. That is £14m short of the £22.5m Arsenal paid Bayer Leverkusen in 2018.
The Athletic reported Fulham were in talks over a move across the capital. The newly-promoted Cottagers are seeking an upgrade on Marek Rodak and Paulo Gazzaniga and Leno would represent a real coup for Marco Silva's side.
Now, Leno's agent, Joannis Koukoutrigas, has shed new light on the latest state of play.
Koukoutrigas confirmed Fulham's interest and added the London side are "trying hard" to land the stopper. But in doing so, he also appeared to suggest Arsenal have got their goalkeeping decision wrong last season.
Bernd Leno "clear No 1"
"He is a German national goalkeeper, has always performed well at Arsenal and is an absolute team player," Koukoutrigas told German publication Bild.
"For me personally, Bernd is also the clear No 1 at Arsenal, with all due respect to the competitors.
"Yes, Fulham is trying hard to get Bernd. Very professionally.
"This is also true for some other clubs and shows his status. But as I said, for me he is the No 1 at Arsenal and we are therefore also relaxed."
Did Arteta get Leno, Ramsdale call wrong?
Clearly, Arteta did not echo Koukoutrigas' sentiments with Ramsdale his preferred gloveman last year.
It is hard to argue against the Spanish boss with Ramsdale exceeding expectations at club level. Furthermore, his Arsenal displays saw him establish himself in the England set-up.
Whether Ramsdale was signed to usurp Leno or to simply compete with the German is immaterial now.
Ramsdale was given his chance and took it with both hands. The ends justify the means in this regard.
https://www.teamtalk.com/arsenal/bernd-leno-transfer-news-agent-takes-shot-arteta-ramsdale-positive-update-fulham-deal
Fulham lead Nottingham Forest in Neco Williams race
Newly-promoted side Fulham are reportedly leading the race to sign Liverpool defender Neco Williams.
Football League World report that Fulham are leading the race for the signature of Liverpool right-back Neco Williams. Nottingham Forest are also tracking the defender but the Cottagers seem to be the frontrunners for the Welshman's signing for now.
The Liverpool youth product reportedly doesn't feature in Jurgen Klopp's plans for the upcoming season. Moreover, the Reds are also set to add Calvin Ramsay from Aberdeen to deputise for Trent Alexander Arnold in the right-back spot.
Ramsay's arrival would send Williams further down the pecking order and he is thus expected to leave for greener pastures this summer. He still has three years left on his contract with the Merseyside giants but it looks highly unlikely that he will stay at the club for that duration.
The 21-year-old spent the second half of the recently-concluded season on loan at Fulham in the Championship and made 14 league appearances for them, in which he scored and assisted twice each. Marco Silva was impressed by the youngster's performance and is now eager to sign him permanently.
But the Cottagers will have to fend off interest from fellow promoted side Nottingham Forest for Williams' signature. The latter are also on the lookout for a right-sided wing-back after reportedly failing to convince Djed Spence to make his stay permanent.
Spence spent the last season on loan with Nottingham Forest from Middlesbrough and was highly impressive, also making the Championship team of the season. Forest were eager to sign him permanently following their promotion to the English top-flight but Tottenham Hotspur have seemingly trumped them in the chase for Spence.
Thus Steve Cooper's side now turned their attention towards Williams, who is closing in on an Anfield exit. However, as things stand, it is Fulham who are ahead of Nottingham Forest in the race for the Welsh international. Liverpool reportedly value the defender at £12 million, and it remains to be seen whether either club is ready to meet the Premier League giants' demands.
http://www.thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2022/06/14/fulham-lead-nottingham-forest-in-neco-williams-race/
Fulham want to proceed with a deal for Bernd Leno, who has 12 months left on his Arsenal contract, with talks expected to resume when the German goalkeeper returns from holiday
Fulham are pressing ahead with a move for Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno
Marco Silva wants a new number one and has also targeted Thomas Strakosha
Leno, 30, is about to enter the final year of his contract with the Gunners
He lost his place between the sticks to Aaron Ramsdale at the start of last season
Fulham are pressing ahead with a move for Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno, with talks expected to resume once the German returns from holiday.
Marco Silva wants to find a new number one this summer after Paulo Gazzaniga and Marek Rodak both played in the Cottagers' Championship-winning season.
Out-of-contract Lazio shot-stopper Thomas Strakosha has also been on the club's radar, but Leno looks set to be the target that they will pursue.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/06/13/23/59031249-10913253-image-a-14_1655157778201.jpg)
Fulham will resume talks with Arsenal goalkeeper Bernd Leno when he returns from holiday
The German is about to enter the final 12 months of his deal at Arsenal, having been at the Emirates Stadium since 2018.
He was the undisputed number one in his first three seasons and started the first three league matches of 2021-22, but then lost his place to Aaron Ramsdale and made only five more appearances in all competitions.
USA international Matt Turner is joining Mikel Arteta's squad this summer to add further competition between the sticks.
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/06/13/23/59031255-10913253-image-m-17_1655157791095.jpg)
The Cottagers have also targeted out-of-contract Lazio shot-stopper Thomas Strakosha
(https://i.dailymail.co.uk/1s/2022/06/13/23/59031237-10913253-image-a-15_1655157783605.jpg)
Leno started last season as Arsenal's number one before losing his place to Aaron Ramsdale
It means that Leno, 30, may look to leave the Gunners, who would likely be open to a sale to avoid losing him for free next summer.
Meanwhile, Fulham are rivalling Southampton for 16-year-old Bradford City midfielder Freddy Jeffreys.
The teenager has not made his debut for the Bantams first team yet, but is extremely highly-rated and helped the club's Under-19 side win EFL Youth Alliance North East Division last season.
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-10913253/Fulham-want-proceed-deal-Bernd-Leno-12-months-left-Arsenal-contract.html
Well, the Leno, Solomon and Williams transfers seem to have been under negotiation for a good while, what can be taking so long . Perhaps the selling clubs are just drawing matters out in the hope of late offers coming in from other clubs.
If we don't land these three TK will have egg on his face that is for sure.
Quote from: filham on June 14, 2022, 10:20:34 AM
Well, the Leno, Solomon and Williams transfers seem to have been under negotiation for a good while, what can be taking so long . Perhaps the selling clubs are just drawing matters out in the hope of late offers coming in from other clubs.
If we don't land these three TK will have egg on his face that is for sure.
S***** agents block a lot of moves up purely for their own bank accounts. :031:
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Quote from: bog on June 14, 2022, 10:28:35 AM
Quote from: filham on June 14, 2022, 10:20:34 AM
Well, the Leno, Solomon and Williams transfers seem to have been under negotiation for a good while, what can be taking so long . Perhaps the selling clubs are just drawing matters out in the hope of late offers coming in from other clubs.
If we don't land these three TK will have egg on his face that is for sure.
S***** agents block a lot of moves up purely for their own bank accounts. :031:
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When did agents first appear on the football scene. Did Haynes ever have an agent other than possibly Jimmy Hill.
From my memory agents started to appear in Football in the early 80s I remember Ray Houghton had an agent and he left us in 1985. Ray Lew was our manager at the time and I remember him moaning about agents at the time. But Ray Houghton certainly wasn't the first
Quote from: Andy S on June 14, 2022, 11:14:40 AM
From my memory agents started to appear in Football in the early 80s I remember Ray Houghton had an agent and he left us in 1985. Ray Lew was our manager at the time and I remember him moaning about agents at the time. But Ray Houghton certainly wasn't the first
I don't think agents in the game is a problem per se, it's the way that they are allowed to dominate the transfer processes and generally act with little to no rules or accountability. If they were required to be regulated professionals e.g. solicitors, accountants etc and answerable to their regulator, with a strict set of rules and genuine sanctions for breaches, it would be fine.
I guess the reason that players are not settling on a move for a while is that selling clubs are hoping to squeeze that extra million from buying clubs and players at the same time have hope of an extra thousand a week or so in wages. Big money when you think of it.
Quote from: filham on June 14, 2022, 10:20:34 AM
Well, the Leno, Solomon and Williams transfers seem to have been under negotiation for a good while, what can be taking so long . Perhaps the selling clubs are just drawing matters out in the hope of late offers coming in from other clubs.
If we don't land these three TK will have egg on his face that is for sure.
Wouldn't it be a tad less pointless and irrational to save such comments until the window has ended? These are rumours and possibly leaks. We don't know our target list, our priorities or if and when negotiations has started with any of these players. It's not as if TK has publicly stated that we are going to get these players, and in this case the eggs won't belong on his face. At least not until we have something even remotely resembling a clear picture.
In my opinion.
