Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 16/08/23...

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'Greased lightning': what Adama Traoré will bring to Fulham
It was sealed with a picture of a bottle of baby oil perched one of the wooden seats in the Johnny Haynes Stand. That reference to the pre-match ritual that began as a ploy to protect Adama Traoré's shoulder, which he had dislocated four times in a single season at Wolves, was the cheeky way in which the Whites announced that the speedy Spanish winger was coming to Craven Cottage. Fulham's famous home was where the Barcelona-born forward had drove one of the last nails in the club's Premier League coffin in 2021, scoring a superb stoppage time winner to condemn Scott Parker's side to defeat in a must-win fixture, prompting floods of on-pitch tears from Mario Lemina – who ironically now calls Molineux home.

The 27 year-old, whose progression from the talented but inconsistent wide man had much to do with a personal WhatsApp schedule curated by Nuno Espirito Santo, remains one of the most rapid runners in the top flight. He's delighted to have another chance to prove himself in the Premier League after leaving the Black Country at the end of his contract in the summer – and the prospect of reviving a profitable partnership with Raul Jimenez is pretty mouthwatering. But there's more to the Spanish international than pace and power.

Traoré was always a highly-rated member of La Masia, the Barcelona academy where he gained his football education from the age of eight. He made his La Liga debut aged only eighteen, replacing Neymar in a 4-0 win over Granada at the Camp Nou, and shone as Barca's under-19s won the first edition of the UEFA Youth League in 2014. The winger scored his first senior goal against Huesca in the Copa del Ray in December 2014 as the Blaugrana went on to win the competition.

His time in Barcelona grounded him, as a black Muslim, in the harsh realities of inequality and discrimination. Inspired as a young boy by the brilliance of Ronaldinho, he knew he could make it in football – speaking candidly about how he and his little brother would often play in youth five-a-side fixtures against friends who had been lured into the gang life amid the high Catalonian crime rates as well as the memory of his school days, where some children would simply shun him for the colour of his skin, and many clubs and bars were off limits as he became a young man.

Traoré, whose eloquence on the need to take a start against racism inspired Barcelona to take the knee last February, believes moving to England was the making of him. He loves a roast dinner – minus the pork, of course – and believes in the restorative powers of a cup of tea. His first taste of the Premier League was fleeting, eleven appearances and a single goal in the League Cup as Aston Villa were relegated in 2016, but his career really gained momentum when he became a potent weapon in the Middlesbrough side managed by Tony Pulis. He memorably ran Leeds ragged in March 2018 as Boro reached the play-off semi-finals, scoring five goals and contributing ten assists on his way to being voted Middlesbrough's fans' player of the season, young player of the year and winning the players' player of the year award at the Riverside Stadium.

He moved to Wolves for a reported £18m and had an immediate impact – scoring the newly-promoted side's first injury-time goal in the Premier League as they stunned West Ham at the Olympic Stadium, rifling home a lovely pass from Leo Bonatini. Traoré found the rest of his first season with Wolves tough, affected by injuries and Nuno's switch to a system without wingers, which might he was largely in competition with wing-back Matt Doherty, who had an outstanding first top flight campaign. Far from being disheartened, the Spaniard knuckled down and impressed the Wolves coaching staff with his commitment to training – becoming a crucial part of the Wolves' side that impressed in the Europa League.

The highlight would have to be a stunning double at Manchester City, where Traoré revelled in being moved from right wing-back, where he had coped well with Raheem Sterling to becoming Jimenez's strike partner late in proceedings. He twice surged onto sumptuous passes from Jimenez to clinch a famous win over the champions – and found a new lease of life as a leader of the line. He scored his first Europa League goal in a 3-3 draw at Braga before bagging a beauty against Tottenham, which was his first goal at Molineux, and seemingly could only be stopped by the cynical and crude physicality of opponents.

Traoré also returned the compliment for Jimenez and together they forged a potent partnership. He provided vital assists against his old club Aston Villa, Bournemouth and Blackpool before turning a game at Southampton, where Wolves had gone 2-0, almost single-handedly. There was a brilliant ball that Jimenez majestically headed home against Liverpool at Molineux and a magnificent first goal at Wolves' home ground against Spurs – all in a month where he romped to the PFA Player of the Year award. Jimenez and Traoré combined for twelve goals that season: a higher number than the vaunted combinations between Kevin de Bruyne and Sergio Aguero or Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino.

He struggled to replicate those sensational showings throughout the Covid pandemic, movingly admitting in one interview that he thrived on the roar of a crowd. There were still moments of magic, such as when he skinned Brighton defenders throughout the 90 minutes in an incredible individual display at the AMEX, and produced a piledriver against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup. He was rewarded with the chance to represent Spain at Euro 2020 and, with his first-team minutes reduced, returned to Barcelona on loan. There was still an encore after he moved back to the Blackcountry, as he won vital points for new boss Julen Lopetegui as Wolves beat the drop. One mesmerising run set up Ruben Neves for a goal as the old gold lamped Liverpool 3-0, there was a special finish to secure a pivotal victory over Spurs and, in his last appearance at Molineux, a marauding run that provided a simple finish for Hee Chan Hwang against Everton.

Traoré, a winger who was loved in Wolverhampton both for his footballing ability and the special connection with the fans – which saw him regularly race youngsters with trollies in supermarket car parks and volunteer for community events with the local schools – reminds me of a Portuguese winger who could be excellent and erratic often in the same match. If Luis Boa Morte can pass on a few tricks of the trade, than the Spanish winger might prove to be more than a mere understudy to Harry Wilson along Fulham's right flank. As Traoré himself tweeted after signing for Fulham, 'we're going to have fun together'. The Whites might not even need to stock up the baby oil – the Premier League's version of 'greased lightning' is pretty difficult to stop in any case.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/greased-lightning-what-adama-traore-will-bring-to-fulham/

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Cheer On FFCW In Their Season Opener!

Get yourself to Motspur Park this Sunday to cheer on Fulham FC Women in their season opener against Ashford United, kick-off 2:30pm.

With tickets priced at just £5 for Adults and £1 for Juniors bring the family to Fulham FC Training Ground for a day of family fun and a showcase of Women's football.

We'll have plenty on offer inside the gates with FREE face painting and balloon modelling, Live music and food & drink options.

Supporters will be able to secure their seats online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or by calling the Fulham FC Ticket Office on 0203 871 0810, or by visiting the Ticket Office in person.

BUY TICKETS

WHERE CAN I WATCH FULHAM FC WOMEN
Fulham FC Women are currently scheduled to play all home league matches at Motspur Park Training Ground, New Malden, KT3 6PT

HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS?

2023/24 Season Tickets are priced at just £40 for Adults and £5 for Juniors.

Individual match tickets are priced at £5 for Adults and £1 for Juniors.

We encourage fans to purchase their digital tickets in advance of matchday which must then be either downloaded to a smart phone or printed before arriving at the Training Ground.

Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or over the phone on 0203 871 0810.

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FULHAM FC WOMEN?

You can keep up to date with all things Fulham FC Women on Twitter and Instagram: @FULHAMFCWOMEN

WHERE DID FULHAM FC WOMEN FINISH LAST SEASON?

The side finished 3rd in the London and South East Regional Division in 2022/23



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/15/cheer-on-fulham-women-in-their-first-game-of-the-season-/

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Man City hitman Haaland spearheads Premier League team of the week
Manchester City got their title defence off to a winning start as they beat Burnley 3-0 on Friday night. Of course goal machine Erling Haaland got on the scoresheet, with the Norwegian hitman one of two City players in the side. Rivals Manchester United are also represented in the opening team of the week of the season, while stars from Fulham, Crystal Palace, Wolves, Brighton, West Ham and Newcastle all feature.

Bernd Leno (Fulham) - 9.11
Fulham battled to a 1-0 win at Everton on Saturday and while Bobby De Cordova-Reid was the match winner for the Cottagers, Bernd Leno was the star performer at Goodison Park. The German made an impressive nine saves on Merseyside to help his side to a clean sheet and all the spoils. With a WhoScored rating of 9.11, Leno is the Premier League player of the week from gameweek one.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Manchester United) - 8.27
Manchester United rode their luck on Monday night as they secured a 1-0 win over Wolves. Aaron Wan-Bissaka picked up the player of the match award at Old Trafford having played a key role in the narrow victory on home turf. Wan-Bissaka provided the assist for Raphael Varane's second half winner, that coming from one of three key passes, while two tackles and two interceptions saw the right-back yield a WhoScored rating of 8.27.

Joachim Andersen (Crystal Palace) - 8.49
The star performer from Crystal Palace's 1-0 win at Sheffield United, Joachim Andersen raminded steadfast for the Eagles in Yorkshire. Indeed, the Dane made six clearances and three tackles to keep the Blades attack at bay, all the while making 10 accurate long balls, to feature with a WhoScored rating of 8.49.

Craig Dawson (Wolves) - 7.73
The first of two Wolves players to make the cut despite their 1-0 defeat at Manchester United, experienced centre-back Craig Dawson was unfortunate to end up on the losing side at Old Trafford. The 33-year-old won eight aerial duels, made five clearances and two tackles, and blocked two shots, to join Andersen at the heart of the defence with a WhoScored rating of 7.73.

Pervis Estupinan (Brighton) - 8.23
Rounding off the backline is Brighton left-back Pervis Estupinan. The Ecuador international registered his first assist of the season in the Seagulls' 4-1 win over Brighton as he provided for Evan Ferguson late on, that coming from one of six key passes. Estupinan also chanced his luck where possible having mustered three shots to help return a WhoScored rating of 8.23.

Jarrod Bowen (West Ham) - 8.51
West Ham kicked off their season with a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth on Saturday, and it was Jarrod Bowen who claimed the player of the match award with a WhoScored rating of 8.51. Bowen put the Hammers ahead early in the second half, netting with one of six shots, and he was unfortunate not to claim an assist having created three goalscoring chances. An additional four dribbles and two tackles capped a fine showing from the 26-year-old.

Rodri (Manchester City) - 9.01
Manchester City got their title defence off to a winning start at Burnley on Friday night with Rodri the star performer at Turf Moor. The Spaniard claimed the assist for the first of Erling Haaland's two goals, and got on the scoresheet himself with 15 minutes to play, those coming from respective returns of one key pass and four shots. With five tackles and a 97.3% pass success rate, Rodri is good value for his inclusion in this XI with a WhoScored rating of 9.01.

Pascal Groß (Brighton) - 8.21
Partnering Rodri in the middle of the park is Brighton star Pascal Groß, who returned a WhoScored rating of 8.21 against Luton. Groß may have failed to have a direct hand in a goal against the Hatters, but it wasn't for want of trying as the German created six goalscoring chances and managed three shots in a solid midfield display.

Matheus Nunes (Wolves) - 8.15
The second Wolves player in the side completes the midfield. Matheus Nunes was a driving force for Gary O'Neil's side at Old Trafford having completed six dribbles in the narrow 1-0 defeat. In addition, Nunes drew five fouls at Manchester United, and made five interceptions and three tackles, to earn a WhoScored rating of 8.15.

Erling Haaland (Manchester City) - 8.63
It took three minutes for Erling Haaland to open his account for the season. Last season's Golden Boot winner netted twice at Turf Moor as Manchester City secured a 3-0 win in Friday's meeting with Burnley. The 23-year-old's brace came from four shots, while he also made two key passes, to contribute towards a WhoScored rating of 8.63.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle) - 8.22
Newcastle got their campaign off to a flying start as they smashed Aston Villa 5-1 at St. James' Park on Saturday evening, with star striker Alexander Isak completing the team of the week. The Swede netted twice on home turf, finding a way past Emiliano Martinez with two of three shots, while an additional one successful dribble sees Isak partner Haaland on the frontline with a WhoScored rating of 8.22.



https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/4VMjkxhRHka-wgwkaTiB1w/Show/Man-City-hitman-Haaland-spearheads-Premier-League-team-of-the-week

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The brilliance of Bobby De Cordova-Reid
You wouldn't have known Bobby De Cordova-Reid had bagged the winner – or that Fulham had even beaten Everton on the opening day of the season – if you listened to his words following the final whistle at Goodison Park. "We'll continue to build, we've still got a lot of room for improvement, and we'll get on the training pitch and we'll do that." The Whites' match winner was modest about his decisive moment, preferring to admonish himself for failing score a second shortly afterwards having arrived late at the back post again. "I probably should have gone with my head," he said ruefully, backing himself to find the target next time.

Those comments underline why Fulham's unassuming Reggae Boy has become one of Marco Silva's favourites. The Bristol boy, who became his career as a highly-rated attacking midfielder with the Robins, finally established himself as a hard-working midfielder at Ashton Gate after gaining senior experience on loan at Plymouth Argyle and Oldham Athletic. He made 27 appearances, scoring twice, as City cemented their place in the Championship before boyhood Fulham fan Lee Johnson persuaded a reluctant Decordova-Reid to play up front in the summer of 2017.

That tactical switch proved a masterstroke. Decordova-Reid scored 21 goals in 52 appearances as Johnson's side stunned top flight opposition in the shape of Watford, Stoke City, Crystal Palace and, famously, Manchester United on their way to the semi-finals of the League Cup, where he scored in a 5-3 aggregate defeat against eventual winners Manchester City. The cup exploits ultimately gave City too much to do in the race for the play-off spots, but Decordova-Reid did earn a top flight move after what he called 'a crazy season'. He joined Cardiff City for £10m – and it was then that he decided to change his name by deed poll to honour 'all the hard work' his mother had put in for his family.

Decordova-Reid's tireless work ethic should come as little surprise. His family has experience of fighting through adversity to achieve their ambitions. He had a footballing role model in the shape of his cousin, the former Watford, Swindon and Norwich midfielder Anthony McNamee, and a big sister, Marsha, who has overcome being born with nystagmus to become the member of parliament for Battersea. His family were delighted when Decordova-Reid realised his dream of playing in the Premier League, although we were less enamoured with his first top-flight goal – which came in a 4-2 defeat of Slavisa Jokanovic's side at Cardiff City Stadium in October 2018.

A brace against AFC Bournemouth marked both the forward's 26th birthday and the first fixture since the disappearance of Emiliano Sala but, despite scoring five goals in 30 appearances, Decordova-Reid never really fitted in Neil Warnock's plans. He jumped at the chance of moving to London, becoming a regular in Scott Parker's team that won promotion via the play-offs before really coming into his own as one of the bright spots in an ultimately forgettable relegation campaign the following year. He first demonstrated his versatility, playing at wing-back as Parker tried to tighten things up, but still getting forward to good effect – scoring seven goals in 37 appearances.

Decordova-Reid's dependability often leads to his technical skills being underrated but he quickly impressed Silva once the Portuguese succeeded Parker in the summer of 2022. The willing runner provided a hat-trick of assists on Fulham's first away day in the Championship – a 5-1 thumping of Huddersfield where the Whites survived the second half dismissal of Harry Wilson – and filled in across a number of positions after Silva's side returned to the top flight, memorably scoring four goals in forty games, as Fulham finished tenth.

The mere numbers don't show you what Decordova-Reid does best. He rivals Harrison Reed for the amount of ground covered across ninety minutes, but he does the unglamorous work of tracking back to cover his full back when deployed out wide and became Fulham's stand-in right back ahead of new signing Kevin Mbabu when Kenny Tete was injured, scoring from that position at Leeds last year. That defensive diligence would have been one of the reasons Silva sent him on against Everton last weekend after a first half where the Whites looked all at sea at the back – and Decordova-Reid repaid his manager's faith with a brilliant run to lose Nathan Patterson and finish a flowing move to the delight of the travelling fans.

Decordova-Reid's enduring excellence isn't just confined to club football – he has made a name for himself in the international arena since accepting an invitation to represent Jamaica in 2019. The 30 year-old scored on his debut for the Reggae Boyz in 6-0 thumping of Antigua and Barbuda, scored a stunning strike against Surinam in the 2021 CONCACAF Gold Cup only to better it with a brilliant strike to stun Mexico earlier this year that was christened 'the goal of the century'.

Plenty of people scoffed when Fulham opted to turn Decordova-Reid's loan from Cardiff into a permanent move for a reported £9.5m but the 30 year-old's enduring reliability across a range of positions makes that look like a bargain, especially given the inflated fees paid for players during this transfer window. He'll never be glamorous but every team needs a Bobby Decordova-Reid. It is Fulham's fortune that he's wearing the black and white with such distinction.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/the-brilliance-of-bobby-de-cordova-reid/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham mull Montiel move
Fulham are interested in signing Sevilla's World Cup winner Gonzalo Montiel as Marco Silva continues his search for cover at right back, according to Sky Sports News.

The 26 year-old Argentinian international, who scored the winning spot-kick in the penalty shoot-out victory over France in the World Cup final last December, was an unused substitute as Sevilla started their La Liga season with a 2-1 defeat against Valencia on Friday evening. Montiel, who has three years to run on his current contract at Los Nervionenses, also scored the winning penalty in the Europa League final win over Roma last May.

Montiel, who has made 71 appearances and scored two goals during his time in Spain following seven trophy-laden seasons at River Plate, is understood to be interested in playing in the Premier League and could be a cheaper alternative to one of Silva's top targets, Timothy Castagne. The Belgian international was on the bench as Leicester beat Huddersfield on Saturday, but the Foxes are holding out for almost £13m for the versatile full back.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-mull-montiel-move/

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool want Fulham's Joao Palhinha but are wary of £60m price tag, and hold interest in Cheick Doucoure and Khephren Thuram as they scramble for midfielders after losing out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia

    Fulham star has emerged as the club's preferred option in defensive midfield
    Liverpool are poised to miss out on both their targets in the position to Chelsea

Liverpool face a race against time to land much-needed reinforcements in midfield with Fulham's Joao Palhinha and Crystal Palace youngster Cheick Doucoure among the favoured options.

The Reds have been left reeling following Chelsea's double swoop of Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, despite the Anfield club first agreeing a British transfer record fee for the former after they had spent much of the summer courting the latter.

Now scrambling to secure the vital signing of a defensive midfielder before the transfer window slams shut on September 1, Mail Sport understands as many as six targets are being considered.

Fulham's combative midfielder Palhinha, who led the league for successful tackles last term, is believed to be the most admired of the options. However, the club is unsure whether to stump up the £60million-plus it would take to pry the 28-year-old away from Craven Cottage.

Despite his obvious talents, the Portuguese international is much older than the club's preferred profile of acquisition and is currently sidelined after being forced off in his side's pre-season friendly against Brentford with a shoulder injury last month.


Fulham slapped a £60m price tag on Joao Palhinha after interest last month from West Ham
 

Crystal Palace signed 23-year-old Cheick Doucoure from Lens last summer for a fee of £22m

   
Liverpool have been left reeling from Chelsea's decisive double swoop of targets Moises Caicedo (left) and Romeo Lavia (right)

Palace youngster Doucoure, who only joined the side from Ligue 1 outfit Lens last summer, is another player who is being considered. Liverpool had been linked with the 23-year-old earlier on in the window but were met with a £70m valuation from the Eagles.

But amid the desperation to recruit in the position - and the £110m they were willing to spend on Caicedo - Liverpool may now view the Mali international as a viable option.   

Jurgen Klopp's side had begun their summer recruitment diligently by snapping up Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai for a combined fee of £95million.

But the unplanned departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho necessitated at least one marquee arrival at the base of midfield.

Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat, who is a target of Manchester United, and Kalvin Phillips of Manchester City were two names who had been ruled out prior to recent events. But they too are believed to be under consideration in the club's current predicament.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12408413/Liverpool-want-Fulhams-Joao-Palhinha-wary-60m-price-tag-hold-Cheick-Doucoure-Khephren-Thuram-scramble-midfielders-losing-Moises-Caicedo-Romeo-Lavia.html

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Riverside Stand Update

Ahead of the first home Premier League fixture, the Club can provide an update on the works to the Riverside Stand.

As you will be aware, we have experienced delays in the project from the outset. Many of the principal delay factors include addressing difficult site conditions during the demolition of the old stand, as well as remedying issues arising out of the construction of the new stand. Whilst it has taken time to address these factors, good progress is now being made on the fit-out phase and we will start to open first class spaces in the new stand during 2024.

Not all spaces will be completed at the same time. As soon as the first hospitality areas start to open, we will provide further details.   

Before then, and for the 2023/24 season, the ground floor internal and external concourses are available to all Riverside Stand ticket holders whilst these areas continue to be developed and completed during the 2024 close season.

Additional seating in the new stand will be available, subject to licensing, from the commencement of the 2024/25 season.

Further details on the opening of the entire riverside walkway, hotel, health club and rooftop pool are not available at this stage.

Both the Club and fans have been anticipating the full opening of the stand, which we had hoped would be by now, and we understand supporter frustrations. Rest assured that work continues diligently to deliver on the promise of a truly remarkable and world class experience.

Everyone at Fulham Football Club is extremely grateful for your patience and understanding.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/15/riverside-stand-update/

[WhiteJC]

'Phenomenal' PL midfielder has now become top Liverpool target
Liverpool want Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha but are 'unsure' whether or not to pay the £60million-plus being demanded.

Joao Palhinha is under consideration at Liverpool but Fulham's asking price could be a problem.

That is according to the Daily Mail, who claim that Palhinha is the 'most admired' of Liverpool's midfield targets.

Liverpool had been targeting Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo but are remarkably set to miss out on both to Chelsea.

The Reds must now turn to other options and Liverpool appear to have Palhinha at the top of their wish list.

However, it's stated that Liverpool are 'unsure' about potentially paying the £60million-plus Fulham are demanding.

Liverpool will be well aware that Palhinha is already 28 and would have limited resale value.

That isn't the be all and end all, but Liverpool may well be mindful of paying £60million or even more for a player heading towards his 30's.

Joao Palhinha could be the defensive presence Liverpool need
Age will be a factor for Liverpool as they weigh up a bid for Palhinha but he's certainly the defensive monster needed at Anfield.

The midfield trio of Alexis Mac Alister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo started against Chelsea but were cut through at times.

Liverpool need somebody who can protect their back four and provide a strong base for Mac Allister and Szoboszlai.

Palhinha – hailed as 'absolutely phenomenal' by pundit Danny Murphy – can be that player having impressed for Fulham last season.

The Portugal international racked up a staggering 147 tackles last season, 47 more than second-placed Caicedo.

Palhinha also ranked in the top 20 for interceptions and has proven himself as a top defensive midfielder.

Liverpool may be hesitating on a bid for Palhinha but if it's immediate defensive impact they want, the Fulham star may well be their man.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/08/15/phenomenal-pl-midfielder-has-now-become-top-liverpool-target/

[WhiteJC]

Tottenham League Cup tie set for August 29th
Fulham have this afternoon confirmed that their League Cup second round tie against Tottenham Hotspur will take place on Tuesday 29th August, with a 7.45pm kick off.

Tickets for the London derby at Craven Cottage will go on sale from 10am tomorrow, priced at £30 for adults and £10 for concessions.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/tottenham-league-cup-tie-set-for-august-29th/

[WhiteJC]

Al Hilal make '£43m Mitrovic offer'
Al Hilal have tabled a £43m offer for Fulham forward Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to the Sun.

The bid, widely trailed in Saudi Arabia since the weekend, falls significantly short of Fulham's £52m valuation, which so upset the Serbian striker over the course of the summer. The Londoners are much more confident of keeping hold of their talismanic number nine after Mitrovic returned to full training with Marco Silva's side and played a key part in their opening day victory at Everton on Saturday after coming off the bench.

Al Hilal's reluctance to meet Fulham's asking price has raised eyebrows after they agreed £86m deal for Brazilian forward Neymar with Paris Saint-Germain. The Whites want to keep hold of their key players and supplement Marco Silva's playing squad before the close of the summer transfer window – and believe that Mitrovic's closeness to head coach Silva, who rejected three approaches from Saudi Pro League sides during the close season, will help them retain his services.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/al-hilal-make-43m-mitrovic-offer/

[WhiteJC]

Mitrovic Fulham Future Amid Al-Hilal Advances
Mitrovic's Fulham Future: Loyalty Over Lucrative Lures?

Navigating through the ever-turbulent waters of the Premier League transfer windows, football clubs often find themselves in a precarious balancing act. Fulham, a team woven into the fabric of London's football scene, is no stranger to such challenges. And at the heart of their current storm? The inimitable Aleksandar Mitrovic.

A Dance With Saudi Riches
Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League titans, have been making waves in the football world with their seemingly limitless resources. When a club is on the cusp of signing a sensation like Paris Saint-Germain's Neymar, they clearly mean business. It's no surprise then that Mitrovic, with his impressive Premier League credentials, finds himself in their crosshairs.

However, the Cottagers remain steadfast. As reported by Football Insider, despite Al-Hilal's generous advances, Fulham's resolve has held firm. The club's determination to hold onto their Serbian star stems from more than just his prowess on the pitch; it's about safeguarding the heart of the team.

Silva's Stand
The relationship between a club's manager and its star player can often make or break a season. Marco Silva has been unequivocal in his stance on Mitrovic. After a noteworthy 32-minute display against Everton on 12 August, Silva was quick to applaud Mitrovic's commitment. "100 per cent for the club," he acclaimed, a clear nod to the striker's unwavering dedication even amid swirling transfer speculations.

Such commitment from a player who had reportedly vowed to never don the Fulham jersey again – following initial rejected bids from Al-Hilal – speaks volumes. Not just of Mitrovic's character but also of Silva's management acumen. The aim? To fully reincorporate the former Newcastle sensation into the heart of Fulham's plans.

The Fulham Faith
Behind the scenes, optimism radiates. According to inside sources cited by The Times, there's a prevailing sentiment that runs deep: "Everyone in the club is determined to keep the player." The collective hope? To "win him round" before the looming 1 September deadline.

A Look Back: Mitrovic's Fulham Journey
Since joining Fulham back in 2018, initially on loan before a £27 million permanent deal was inked, Mitrovic has been nothing short of stellar. His record? A very impressive 111 goals in 205 appearances. Factor in a further 22 assists and his value to the club becomes abundantly clear. Last season's 15 strikes were instrumental in ensuring Fulham's Premier League spot, culminating in a commendable 10th-place finish.

In Conclusion
The tale of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Fulham is one that resonates with many a football lover. Loyalty, commitment, and the allure of richer pastures – themes that recur time and again. As the sands of the transfer window run out, all eyes will be on Mitrovic. Will he continue to light up Craven Cottage, or will the allure of Saudi riches prove too tempting?



https://eplindex.com/94440/mitrovic-fulham-future-amid-al-hilal-advances.html

[WhiteJC]

Sources: Fulham 'worried' as Willian closes in on surprise Saudi move
There are still no guarantees over Willian's Fulham future after an approach from the Saudi Pro League, sources have told Football Insider.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that club chiefs are "worried" about the 35-year-old potentially leaving before next month's deadline.

An exit would come as a surprise, considering Willian only penned his new one-year contract at Craven Cottage last month.

However, he has reportedly agreed terms with Saudi club Al-Shabab and communicated his desire to leave Fulham.

Despite the interest from the Middle East, Willian started in the season-opening win over Everton on Saturday (12 August).

It is believed Marco Silva is hopeful the veteran winger will choose to honour his contract at Craven Cottage.

Of course, Al-Shabab would need to have a bid accepted for Willian before he is able to make the move to the Saudi Pro League.

Alternatively, they could wait until January and agree a pre-contract with the player for his arrival next summer.

Willian turned out 30 times across all competitions last season, scoring five and assisting six as Fulham consolidated their Premier League status with a 10th-place finish.

The former Brazil international has now turned out 287 times in the English top flight, notching 43 goals and 50 assists.

He initially walked away from Fulham at the end of his one-year deal in June, before rejecting an approach from Nottingham Forest to return to the club.

Another Cottagers star in a similar position is Aleksandar Mitrovic, who reportedly refused to play for the club ever again after an offer from Al-Hilal was rejected.

He has since returned to Premier League action, and Football Insider revealed on Monday (14 August) that Fulham are "confident" of keeping the 28-year-old past next month's deadline.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-worried-as-willian-closes-in-on-surprise-saudi-move/

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Fulham make Nardoni enquiry
Fulham have made an enquiry as to the availability of Racing Club midfielder Juan Ignacio Nardoni, according to reports this afternoon.

The Whites want to sign midfield reinforcements before the summer transfer window closes and have identified the tenacious 21 year-old as a potential signing to challenge their regular engine room partnership of Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha. Nardoni, who can play either as a holding midfielder or a more conventional central midfielder, made 79 first-team appearances for Sante Fe-based Club Atlético Unión before moving to Racing in January for a fee of around £4.9m.

The talented midfielder has played 35 games for Racing to date, scoring twice and providing six assists. Nardoni has made six appearances in this season's Copa Libertadores, scoring in the group stage win over SD Aucas and making one of the goals in the 4-0 thrashing of Ñublense. He faces a race against time to feature in the quarter final first leg at Boca Juniors next Thursday having missed the second round victory over Atletico Nacional, where Racing overturned a 4-2 first leg deficit, through injury.

Racing are said to value their highly-rated midfield prospect at around £20m – and it remains to be seen whether the Whites would be willing to meet that asking price.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-make-nardoni-enquiry/

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Saudi spree continues with £46 million Aleksandar Mitrovic bid
Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is the subject of a £46million bid from Al-Hilal in a desperate last-ditch attempt to get him to the Saudi Pro League.

The Serbia striker, 28, was expected to stay at Craven Cottage after initial bids were rejected from the SPL club, who are also signing Neymar from Paris Saint-Germain for £86million. They have returned with a fresh offer and there are hopes it will be accepted as it is close to Fulham's asking price.

Fulham must now decide whether to accept the offer for their striker, who was brought off the bench in their 1-0 Premier League victory over Everton last weekend. They were preparing for him to stay beyond the transfer window after integrating him back into Marco Silva's squad.

Should a deal get agreed, it at least gives Fulham two weeks to bring in another forward before the transfer deadline. They are moving closer to signing Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi and have been working on deals for Everton's Demarai Gray and Leicester's Timothy Castagne.

Mitrovic had made it clear that he wanted to move to the Middle East. He trained on his own earlier in pre-season - Silva described it as "not working properly with his team-mates" - when a £25million bid was rejected from Al-Hilal.

They are much closer to Fulham's valuation of more than £50million for a player in his peak years as a forward. He scored 15 times last season.

"Mitro is a top striker and we have helped him and were able to get the best out of him in two seasons like no-one has before," said Silva.

"We know what Mitro was like in the season in the Premier League when the club was relegated and credit to him for the way that he understood ourselves and the way he proved himself at this level.

"But the market is open and everyone is looking for the strikers and they want the best. If they want the best then you would look at Mitro. I cannot guarantee he will be with us until the end of the market because I cannot control the market. But we are ready if something happens even if something I don't like what happens."



https://sports.yahoo.com/saudi-spree-continues-46-million-155803812.html

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Liverpool want to sign 'outstanding' 28-year-old over any other midfielder
Liverpool reportedly want to sign Joao Palhinha more than any other midfielder out there in the transfer market.

According to the Daily Mail, the 28-year-old Fulham star has emerged as potentially Liverpool's new favoured target having missed out on Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea.

Palhinha only joined Fulham last season yet has since established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, with the Portuguese international making the most tackles out of any player in the division.

Whilst Palhinha is currently out through injury, interest has been high in the midfielder throughout the summer, with Fulham believed to want as much as £60m for the former Sporting Lisbon star.

And Liverpool could be tempted to pay this fee having missed out on two top targets this week in Caicedo and Lavia, with Palhinha a dream short-term fix for Jurgen Klopp's midfield issues

Lauded by Match of the Day commenter Steve Wilson as an 'outstanding' midfielder, Palhinha could be worth the £60m investment for Liverpool if it means returning to the UEFA Champions League and challenging for the title.

Liverpool have to disregard Palhinha's age and price tag
Signing a 28-year-old midfielder to replace the 29-year-old Fabinho might seem like an odd strategy for a club like Liverpool, yet given what the Reds need, there's few players out there in the market as good as Palhinha.

The Fulham star has already made the Premier League look easy based off his performances and stats from last season, and Palhinha could be sold on a move to Liverpool this window if an offer was to be made.

£60m might be steep for a 28-year-old, but for what Liverpool need, Palhinha is a dream signing for the Reds this window.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2023/08/15/liverpool-want-to-sign-outstanding-28-year-old-over-any-other-midfielder/

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Spurs (H) Carabao Cup Info

Our Second Round Carabao Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur has now been confirmed for Tuesday 29th August, kick-off 7.45pm.
Ticket Information

Tickets for this fixture go on to sale from 10am on Wednesday 16th August.

Due to an increased away allocation, the entire Putney End will be allocated to Tottenham Hotspur supporters. There will therefore be no home ticket sales in the Putney End, and due to the very short turnaround time, Season Ticket Holders in the Riverside Stand, Hammersmith End and Johnny Haynes stand will have their seats reserved for them for just 24 hours.

Putney End Season Ticket Holders will have a choice of free seating within the other three stands.

Adult tickets are priced from £30 for this fixture, with Juniors aged 17 & under just £10!
On Sale Dates

    10am, Wednesday 16th August - On sale to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders to buy their own seat, or Putney End STH to buy unreserved seats – (one ticket per person)
    5pm, Thursday 17th August - Off sale whilst unpurchased seats are released
    10am, Friday 18th August - Back on sale to all STH (four tickets per person)
    10am, Monday 21st August - On sale to Members (four tickets per person)
    10am, Tuesday 22nd August - On General Sale (four tickets per person)

Supporters can secure their seat online at tickets.fulhamfc.com and from the Fulham FC Ticket Office in person or by phone on 0203 871 0810 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).
Pricing

Category	Johnny Haynes & Hammersmith End	Riverside Stand
Adult	£30	£40
65 & Over	£20	£30
18-21	£20	£30
17 & Under	£10	£20

*All of the above prices will increase by £10 on matchday, subject to availability.

More information regarding for this fixture can be found here.

BUY TICKETS

Supporters should be aware that season cards are not valid for this fixture.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/15/spurs-carabao-cup-info/

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Fulham have shown 'most interest' in Argentine midfielder – 'Informed' everyone they will start negotiations
Fulham have shown 'most interest' in Argentine midfielder – 'Informed' everyone they will start negotiations

The Craven Cottage side, according to TuttoMercatoWeb, are now going after a young midfielder currently contracted to Racing Club called Juan Ignacio Nardoni.

The website explain that Fulham are 'seriously thinking' about the 21-year-old, who has already 'attracted the interest of many teams'.

The Craven Cottage side, according to TuttoMercatoWeb, are now going after a young midfielder currently contracted to Racing Club called Juan Ignacio Nardoni.

The website explain that Fulham are 'seriously thinking' about the 21-year-old, who has already 'attracted the interest of many teams'.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-shown-interest-argentine-midfielder-informed-everyone-will-start-negotiations/

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Fulham tell club they will open talks to sign £22m star this month
Premier League outfit Fulham are ready to open talks to sign Juan Ignacio Nardoni but may be forced to pay £22 million for the Racing Club midfielder.

One highly-rated Argentine youngster has already sealed his move to London this month; Tottenham Hotspur signing U20 striker Alejo Veliz from Rosario Central for a cool £13 million.

If reports are to be believed, fellow up-and-comer Juan Ignacio Nardoni could soon be joining Veliz in the capital.

Fulham, Tuttomercatoweb say, have shown 'the most interest' in the 20-year-old midfielder. What's more, the Cottagers have told both Racing Club and Nardoni's camp that they intend to start talks in the coming days, though whether Fulham would be willing to stump up a fee in the region of £22 million remains to be seen.

Fulham ready to open Juan Ignacio Nardoni talks
Nardoni only arrived at the Estadio Presidente Juan Domingo Peron in January. He joined Racing Club from Union Santa Fe.

A versatile midfielder who tends to play in deeper positions but makes well-timed runs into the penalty area, Nardoni has four assists and one goal from 26 league outings this term.

"Nardoni has great potential," Racing coach Fernando Gago – himself once an effective 'number five' for Real Madrid – tells TYC Sports. "He is improving and with a logical adaptation process for any 20-year-old player who arrives at a new club. 

"I see him very well from the group and individually. I like his way of being and his desire to learn."

Fulham's interest in Nardoni comes as Liverpool reportedly renew their interest in Joao Palhinha; Jurgen Klopp casting his net a little wider after missing out on both Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia to Chelsea.

Veliz, meanwhile, has been tipped to make a big splash in the Premier League in his new North London home. He scored 11 goals in 23 games for Rosario Central before joining Spurs.

"Congratulations to Tottenham, who took Alejo Veliz from Rosario Central," Daniel Bertoni, a World Cup winner in 1978 with Argentina, tells Tuttomercatoweb.

"For me, (Veliz is) a phenomenon."



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/08/15/fulham-tell-club-they-will-open-talks-to-sign-22m-star-this-month/

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Report: Club are resisting Tottenham's strong advances for 23-year-old
According to a report in La Stampa (as relayed by TuttoMeractoWeb), Torino are resisting Tottenham's attempts to sign Perr Schuurs.

Shuurs had an outstanding first season in Serie A since swapping Ajax for Turin last summer and multiple reports over the last week have backed Tottenham to make a move for the Dutchman.

This includes an update from The Times (August 8) which suggested that Spurs aim to offload Japhet Tanganga and Davinson Sanchez, and sign the Torino star before the transfer window closes.

GiveMeSport subsequently reported on August 9 that Shuurs has become Tottenham's top centre-back target ahead of the likes of Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo.

Torino standing firm with Spurs on Perr Schuurs
La Stampa have now become the latest publication to report on Spurs' interest in Shuurs, stating that the Lilywhites have made a 'strong comeback' for the player.

It is explained that the North London club would have no issues meeting Torino's asking price for the centre-back, given the cash influx they have received from Harry Kane's switch to Bayern Munich.

However, the publication adds that the Serie A club's chairman Urbano Cairo wants to 'resist the onslaught' from the Premier League side as he is determined to hang on to the club's best players.

Spurs Web Opinion
I suspect Postecoglou has decided that he now wants to sign a right-sided centre-back to cover for Cristian Romero, with both Ben Davies and Eric Dier capable of covering on the left for Micky van de Ven.

However, I am surprised that the club seem to be prioritising a move for Schuurs over homegrown options such as Adarabioyo or potentially Marc Guehi.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-club-are-resisting-tottenhams-strong-advances-for-23-year-old/

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c
Arsenal's decision to part ways with Bernd Leno was largely influenced by Aaron Ramsdale's impressive start, with the latter now facing a sense of déjà vu as he realises his position could be challenged by the addition of David Raya to the squad. This situation mirrors Ramsdale's own rise to the starting lineup at the expense of Leno.

eno's departure has led him to Fulham, where he has established himself as the preferred choice, a development that brings contentment to the German goalkeeper. However, Ramsdale now finds himself in a competitive environment, raising questions about the wisdom of letting go of Leno following Ramsdale's arrival.

The Sun's Dave Kidd has given his opinion on the players' performances and surprising to some, suggests that Leno has been the standout performer among the trio so far.

He writes in his column:
"There's intrigue at Arsenal over whether Aaron Ramsdale will be replaced by David Raya as Mikel Arteta's first-choice goalie.

"Although, if you've been watching closely enough, it's clear that Fulham's Bernd Leno, replaced by Ramsdale as Arsenal's No 1, is actually a better keeper than either of them."

Just Arsenal Opinion
Leno was error-strewn when we replaced him in the team and it was absolutely the right decision to make at the time, so we have no reason to regret it.

However, Ramsdale has not really put a foot wrong and adding Raya to the squad is very questionable.

But we cannot be bothered too much about that because Ramsdale should be able to fight for his place in the team no matter what happens.




https://www.justarsenal.com/journalist-reckons-leno-remains-better-than-ramsdale-and-raya/346566