Saturday Fulham Stuff - 19/08/23...

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Fulham's Forward Focus: The £50m Arsenal Prospect Dive
Balogun: Arsenal's Rising Star

When we talk about ascending stars of English football, Folarin Balogun, with a staggering £50m tag attached to his name, is hard to ignore. The prodigious Arsenal striker, after his remarkable stint at Reims where he netted 22 goals, has garnered the attention of many, and now, Fulham might be rolling the dice for him.

In the constantly shifting landscape of football, such moves are not just about securing a promising player but also about securing the club's future. And if whispers in the corridors of Craven Cottage are anything to go by, Balogun is viewed as the ideal candidate to fill the void left by Aleksandar Mitrovic's imminent departure to Al-Hilal.

A Spotlight on Fulham's Recent Dealings
The Londoners have been busy in the market. They've already waved hello to Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, and the lightning-fast Adama Traore. Each acquisition calculated, each move strategic. Guided by Marco Silva, they've kicked off their campaign with a narrow yet significant 1-0 victory against Everton.

This Saturday, the Cottagers are set to entertain Brentford, and come August 26, they'll be off to challenge the Gunners.

Defence: The Ongoing Pursuit
While the spotlight hovers over the Balogun drama, Fulham's defensive aspirations are making waves too. They have their eyes set on Benfica's young prodigy, Morato. A Benfica academy gem, 22-year-old Morato has already sported the senior jersey 51 times. With an £18 million bid for him already declined, the whispers from Portugal suggest Morato is restless and eager for new pastures.

But the defensive intrigue doesn't end there. The Cottagers have been making inquiries about Eric Bailly, fresh off a loan spell from Marseille and back with Manchester United. The game of transfer musical chairs, it seems, is in full swing.

Quo Vadis, Fulham?
With all these potential signings and reshufflings, what's clear is Fulham's intent. The management isn't merely looking at surviving the league or a mid-table finish. They are looking higher, aiming bigger. Perhaps Balogun is not just a potential signing but a statement of where they want to be.

According to reports from the Daily Mail, all these are more than just rumours. Football, after all, is as much about the drama off the pitch as it is about the 90 minutes on it.

So, as the Premier League whirlwind continues to churn stories and speculations, one thing's for sure: Fulham is in the mix, and they mean business.



https://eplindex.com/94676/fulhams-forward-focus-the-50m-arsenal-prospect-dive.html

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Mitrovic to miss Brentford game but Palhinha set to return
Aleksander Mitrovic will not be involved for Fulham in the derby against Brentford on Saturday but Joao Palhinha will return after recovering from a shoulder injury.

Mitrovic is wanted by Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, who seem determined to sign him.

Whites boss Marco Silva insists no offer has been accepted for the Serbian forward.

"He is out of the game because he hurt his ankle. That is not to do with any possible bid," Silva said.

New signing Adama Traore is unlikely to be involved as he gets up to speed with his fitness, having not had a full pre-season after leaving Wolves.

Silva has backed the Spain winger to help fill the void left by departed loanees Daniel James and Manor Solomon.

"Due to the players that left the club it is clear we need to sign players who can play in that area of the pitch," Silva said.

"We have signed Adama and we are looking for another on that side of the pitch.

"He knows the Premier League and is experienced at this level."



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/football-mitrovic-to-miss-brentford-game-but-palhinha-set-to-return

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Pre-Brentford Press Conference

Marco Silva started with an update on team news as he previewed Saturday afternoon's derby with near-neighbours Brentford.

"João Palhinha is going to be involved. He is going to be in the squad list.

"Just Mitrović is going to be out of the game and all the other players are going to be ready.

"He is out of the game because as you know he had a problem in his ankle.

"He's doing individual work, not working with his teammates because of the injury."

Last season's clash with the Bees produced a dramatic affair, which our head coach reflects on as being one of two halves.

"It was a good performance," he said. "I think our first half was a very good level, second half not so good.

"They came back stronger in the second half but we were able to win the game in the last moments.

"It was the first derby against Brentford in the Premier League and was special to win in that way."

"Now will be another story, a different story, of course we want to win.

"If you can perform like we did that first half, I'm 100% sure that you are going to be closer to win the football match, but we know that they are tough, you know the great season they had as well.

"They can punish you in different ways, they are really strong on the counter-attack but at the same time they are really strong at set pieces as well, long throws - all those situations.

"But okay, we are playing at home, you want to be on the front foot, you want to be to have the special feeling again to win the derby."

New signing, Adama Traoré, was another topic of discussion, and Silva exclaimed the importance of getting the powerful player on board.

"You know, we lost Kebano, Manor Solomon, Daniel James in the wide positions in our attack line so we needed players in that area.

"We clearly need players in that in that area of the pitch and not just one. Right now we have signed Adama. Of course we were looking for another one for that area of the pitch.

"He's a player that knows the Premier League very well. He has enough experience at this level.

"A powerful guy, he is a player that will give us something different and he is another one that comes to help us to be to be stronger."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/18/pre-brentford-press-conference/

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Fulham vs Brentford Preview: Probable Lineups, Prediction, Tactics, Team News & Key Stats

Fulham will take on Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday, looking to continue their impressive start to the season with a win at home.

Fulham picked up a narrow win over Everton in their opening game of the season, and they will fancy their chances of picking up all three points against Brentford as well. Meanwhile, the Bees put on a spirited display against Tottenham Hotspur in their season-opener, and they managed to grind out a 2-2 draw.

Matches between these two sides have been quite evenly matched in recent seasons, and this one promises to be a cracking affair as well. Both teams had excellent 2022/23 Premier League campaigns, and they will look to build on those performances and scale greater heights this season.

Team News & Tactics
Fulham
Fulham will be without star midfielder Joao Palhinha, who has been ruled out with a shoulder injury. The Portuguese international is expected to return to action soon. The home side are likely to start in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bernd Leno in goal.

Kenny Tete and Antonee Robinson will be deployed as the full-backs here, and they will look to contribute offensively apart from their defensive duties. In the central defence, Tim Ream will partner Calvin Bassey. The two players will look to keep the defensive unit organised and thwart any Brentford attacks.

As for the midfield unit, Harrison Reed will partner Sasa Lukic in the middle of the park in the absence of Palhinha. The two players will look to break up the opposition's attacks and shield the back four.

Harry Wilson and Bobby De Cordova-Reid will be deployed as the wingers and they will look to create opportunities in the final third. Andreas Pereira will continue in his usual number ten role, with Raul Jimenez leading the line. Aleksandar Mitrovic's future remains up in the air, and the Serbian international might not start here.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Leno; Tete, Ream, Bassey, Robinson; Lukic, Reed; Wilson, Pereira, Cordova-Reid; Jimenez

Brentford
The Bees will be without their star striker Ivan Toney, who is suspended until January for breaching betting regulations. Ben Mee is also doubtful with injury. Brentford are likely to start in a 3-5-2 formation, with Mark Flekken in goal.

In the back three, Kristoffer Ajer is likely to start alongside Ethan Pinnock and Nathan Collins. Aaron Hickey and Rico Henry will be deployed as the wing-backs, and the two players will look to add width and creativity to the side apart from shielding the central defenders.

Mathias Jensen will start in the middle of the park, alongside Christian Norgaard and Vitaly Janelt. Finally,, Yoane Wissa will start alongside Bryan Mbeumo, who might be a popular FPL prospect, in the final third, forming the strike partnership.

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Flekken; Ajer, Pinnock, Collins; Hickey, Janelt, Norgaard, Jensen, Henry; Wissa, Mbeumo

Key Stats

    Brentford have scored at least two goals in their last four matches against Fulham in all competitions.
    Fulham have scored at least two goals in their last three matches against Brentford in all competitions.
    Both teams have scored in four of the last five meetings between these two sides.
    Fulham have won three of the last six matches against Brentford with the away side, winning the other three.
    23 goals have been scored in the last six matches between these two sides.

Player to Watch
Raul Jimenez

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers striker is a seasoned Premier League forward, and Fulham will need him to step up in order to get past the Brentford defence. The Mexican international is an expert when it comes to bringing others into the play and holding the ball up.

The 32-year-old will have to shoulder the goalscoring responsibility if Mitrovic does not play on Saturday. Jimenez is a complete forward who will pose an aerial threat to the Brentford defence as well. And the Mexican international is undoubtedly Fulham's most potent weapon.

Prediction
Fulham 2-1 Brentford
Neither side are particularly impressive defensively, and this is likely to be an open contest with a fair few chances for either side. The games between these two sides have often been packed with goals, with the last six matches producing a total of 23 goals.

Fulham have won the last two home matches against Brentford with a scoreline of 3-2, and they will look to pick up another victory here. Both teams are likely to get on the score sheet here. But the home side should be able to edge this one eventually. The absence of Ivan Toney should be a major blow for Brentford. A 2-1 win for Fulham is on the cards here.



https://thehardtackle.com/round-up/2023/08/18/fulham-vs-brentford-preview-probable-lineups-prediction-tactics-team-news-key-stats/

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Exclusive: Fulham table bid to sign Gonzalo Montiel as Marco Silva plots shrewd deal for World Cup winner
Fulham have made an official bid for World Cup winner Gonzalo Montiel, sources have told TEAMtalk.

Sevilla are open to offers for Argentina international Montiel as they look to balance the books at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium.

Montiel, who scored the winning penalty when Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, has struggled to hold down a regular spot in the Sevilla side.

The 26-year-old was left on the bench for the opening La Liga game of the season against Valencia last weekend and only came on the last seven minutes of the midweek European Super Cup defeat to Manchester City. He did, however, tuck away his penalty in the shootout with some aplomb.

Fulham boss Marco Silva is in the market for reinforcements at full-back at both right and left before the close of the transfer window.

The Cottagers have been keen on a move for Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne, but they have switched their attentions to Montiel after being priced out a move for Castagne.

Kenny Tete is currently Fulham's starting right-back and the arrival of Montiel would provide cover and competition for Silva's side this season.



https://www.teamtalk.com/fulham/exclusive-cottagers-table-bid-sign-gonzalo-montiel-marco-silva-plots-shrewd-deal-world-cup-winner

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Leipzig join Fulham and Liverpool in the race to sign Rennes centre-back Arthur Theate
Rennes centre-back Arthur Theate (23) is being courted by several European outfits. Yesterday, L'Équipe broke the news that Premier League sides Fulham and Liverpool were interested in the versatile left-footed Belgium international.

Theate joined the Bretons only last year from Bologna in a €20m deal. He is tied to Bruno Genesio's side with a contract set to expire in 2026. The defender made 42 appearances, scoring a remarkable five goals and registering one assist. Now, L'Équipe reports that Bundesliga side Leipzig is also keeping tabs on the left-footed centre-back.

The French publication understands that the Red Bull-owned club and the player's entourage have entered into talks. Leipzig are in the market for a versatile left-footed centre-back following Joško Gvardiol's €90m sale to Manchester City and El Chadaille Bitshiabu's knee ligament injury. Leipzig are yet to submit a bid to their Rennes counterparts. Leipzig head coach Marco Rose said in a pre-game press conference that he has no intention to field newly-signed defender Castello Lukeba as the left-sided centre-back. Leipzig will kick off their Bundesliga season away at Leverkusen this Saturday.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/leipzig-join-fulham-and-liverpool-in-the-race-to-sign-rennes-centre-back-arthur-theate/

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Silva seeks further signings
Marco Silva has urged the Fulham hierarchy to strenghten his squad with more wide players after the signing of Adama Traore on a free transfer from Wolves.

The Cottagers' head coach gave a strong hint that the Spanish international could be involved in tomorrow's local derby with Brentford – but used his pre-match press conference to reiterate that the Whites have lost a number of wingers over the summer.

Silva said:

    "You know, we lost [Neeskens] Kebano, Manor Solomon, Daniel James in the wide positions in our attack line so we needed players in that area. We clearly need players in that in that area of the pitch and not just one. Right now we have signed Adama. Of course we were looking for another one for that area of the pitch.

    He's a player that knows the Premier League very well. He has enough experience at this level. A powerful guy, he is a player that will give us something different and he is another one that comes to help us to be to be stronger."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/silva-seeks-further-signings-2/

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Rico discharged from hospital
Former Fulham goalkeeper Sergio Rico has been discharged from hospital to continue his recovery from serious head injuries at his home in Seville.

The Spanish international, who played for the Whites during the 2018/2019 Premier League season, suffered life-threatening injuries during a horse-riding holiday in Spain over the summer when his horse was struck by another and was in a coma for several weeks.

Rico, who made 32 appearances for the Whites during his loan spell at Craven Cottage, has made a remarkable recovery and was walk out of hospital alongside his wife Alba Silva earlier this afternoon. He tearfully addressed waiting reporters briefly:

    "I feel quite well. I wanted to say a few words to thank my family and my wife. I wanted to thank the football world that has sent me messages of support. Everyone who has stopped for a minute to give me support, I thank them. Also, of course, the staff of the Hospital Virgen del Rocio, who are professionals of the highest order.'

The Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper could yet make a remarkable return to professional football but is currently focused on completing his recovery with a recuperation programme devised by his doctors.

We wish Sergio and his family all the very best.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/rico-discharged-from-hospital/

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Fulham 'make Montiel bid'
Fulham have made an offer for Sevilla's World Cup winning full-back Gonzalo Montiel, according to a Teamtalk report this afternoon.

The La Liga outfit are looking to sell their Argentinian international right back, who was an unused substitute in their opening league game of the new season last Friday night, in order to ease their financial predicament. The 26 year-old did feature as a late substitute in the Super Cup defeat by Manchester City on Wednesday evening – and scored his penalty, just as he did when Sevilla beat Roma in May's UEFA Europa League final. The defender has attracted interest from across Europe but Sevilla are keen to conclude a permanent departure from the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan Stadium – which the Whites are now offering.

Montiel, who scored the winning penalty against France to clinch the World Cup for his country last December, is said to keen on plying his trade in the Premier League. Fulham have been seeking competition for Marco Silva's first choice right back Kenny Tete this summer and have alighted on the attack-minded former River Plate man having been frustrated in their attempts to sign Leicester City's Timothy Castagne.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-make-montiel-bid/

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Fulham: Marco Silva offers Aleksandar Mitrovic update and confirms transfer plan
Whites boss is leaving ongoing striker saga to Craven Cottage hierarchy as he targets new wingers and full-backs before the September 1 deadline

Marco Silva insists the Fulham board have not informed him that a bid has been accepted for the sale of Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Serbian striker scored 14 Premier League goals for Fulham last season, and 43 Championship goals in 44 matches as they won promotion to the top-flight the season before.

Al-Hilal had £25.5million and £35m bids for Mitrovic rejected earlier this summer, with the Saudi Pro League side having since made a new and improved offer of £46m having already wrapped up the £86.4m signing of Brazilian superstar Neymar this week.

Yet amid reports of that third bid being accepted, Fulham boss Silva said on Friday: "I have not had this information. Business and this situation, we have people to take care of it."

Silva was also insistent that the club must make more signings before the September 1 transfer deadline, particularly in wide attacking positions despite the arrival last weekend of free-agent winger Adama Traore.

"We lost from our football club [Neeskens] Kebano, Manor Solomon and Daniel James in the wide positions," he said. "We have signed Adama. We are looking for another one in that area of the pitch.

"I don't see how it is possible not to sign more players. We are really short in some positions. We need two more full-backs to come to our football club."


Future uncertain: Marco Silva is unsure if Fulham have now accepted a bid from Al-Hilal for top striker Aleksandar Mitrovic / PA

Asked whether another European push is the target for Fulham this season, Silva was coy, saying: "We have to be realistic."

He was full of praise for Brentford manager Thomas Frank, whose side Fulham host in their first home match of the new season at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

"They can punish you in different games" he said before the west London derby. "They are really good on the counter-attack, but set-pieces as well. He's doing a great, great job. They are really tough to beat, a compact side."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-aleksandar-mitrovic-marco-silva-transfer-news-b1101653.html

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Fulham have 'appeared strongly' for player in last few hours – He's 'asked' to leave club this summer
Fulham have 'appeared strongly' for Sevilla's Gonzalo Montiel in the last few hours, with a permanent exit or loan deal possible.

That's according to Vamos Mi Sevilla, who follow up claims from earlier today that Fulham were looking to sign the right back.

That report claimed Marco Silva's side were eyeing up a deal for Montiel, who has found himself out of the picture at Sevilla and had been linked to Aston Villa earlier in the window.

Vamos Mi Sevilla now follow that up and say thanks to Montiel being relegated to third place in Sevilla's plans, the Argentine 'has asked' to leave the club in search of regular playing time.

Fulham's interest in the defender 'has appeared strongly' in the last few hours and the Spanish side are more than open to a deal.

They've made it clear that they will let Montiel leave on loan or in a permanent exit, although if it is a loan deal then there will need to be a mandatory purchase clause included in the deal.

They make no mention of the price Sevilla would set that mandatory clause at, just that it would need to be included in any loan deal.

It now remains to be seen if Fulham will match their demands or not, but they appear to be pushing to sign Montiel and make him their latest addition.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-appeared-strongly-player-last-hours-hes-asked-leave-club-summer/

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The £17m goal-machine striker who could take Premier League by storm with Fulham or Everton

Looking at Niclas Füllkrug, the free-scoring striker who could be available at a knock-down price - and why Fulham, West Ham and Everton should be all over him.

With Aleksandr Mitrović slowly wearing Fulham down as he pursues a lucrative move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, the Cottagers have begrudgingly hit the transfer market in search of a striker to replace the Serbian who has provided most of the west London club's goals over the past few seasons.

Reports in the last couple of days suggest that Fulham may enter the race for much sought-after Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun, but he could cost £50m (nearly twice the price Mitrović is likely to fetch) and may well get more attractive offers from France or Italy. If that falls through, they may well be back to the drawing board. Happily, there is a possible solution for them – Werder Bremen's Niclas Füllkrug.


Niclas Füllkrug was one of the few German players to emerge from the World Cup with credit.

In truth, this is a transfer quite a few clubs should be contemplating over the final two weeks of the transfer window. The 30-year-old German striker, a late bloomer who has hit 35 goals over the last two campaigns for Bremen, has one year left on his contract and negotiations over an extensions have been fraught.

Reports in Germany have suggested that he could sign a deal until 2026 with a release clause, while there have been suggestions that his club could be willing to cash in to the tune of €20m (£17m) – not cheap for a striker entering his thirties, but pretty great value for a striker who has proven his ability to go at 15 goals a season in the Bundesliga.

He's also demonstrated his mettle at international level, making his senior debut for Germany last year at the age of 29 and scoring seven goals in nine games since - including two at the World Cup against Spain and Costa Rica. His pedigree may not have shown as early for him as it does for many first-rate players, but it seems pretty unquestionable now.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/fulham/the-ps17m-goal-machine-striker-who-could-take-premier-league-by-storm-with-everton-or-fulham-4260905

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Fulham vs Brentford: Aleksandar Mitrovic to miss west London derby but Joao Palhinha returns

Raul Jimenez will start up front against the Bees, with fellow new signing from Wolves Adama Traore also involved for the first time

Aleksandar Mitrovic will miss Fulham's London derby against Brentford on Saturday, but Joao Palhinha will return from injury.

Amid reports that he may be nearing the exit door at Craven Cottage after a new and improved bid from Saudi suitors Al-Hilal, Mitrovic injured his ankle in Fulham's 1-0 win at Everton last weekend and was pictured in a protective boot after the game.

Meanwhile, Palhinha has been out since injuring his shoulder in the US pre-season friendly win over Brentford, who Fulham host in a west London derby on Saturday.

"Joao Palhinha is going to be involved in the game", said manager Marco Silva on Friday. "He is going to be in the game. Apart from Joao, just Mitrovic is going to be out of the game. All the other players are going to be ready."

Silva said of the Serb: "He is out because he rolled his ankle in the last game. He is not doing work with his team-mates because of the injury.

"The injury is not going to be serious. He's not going to be out for three or four weeks. It's in the other foot [from his ankle injury last season]. It's not the same. It was when he jumped in the game [against Everton]."

Meanwhile, Silva is set to hand a debut to Adama Traore, the former Wolves and Barcelona winger whom they signed as a free agent last weekend.

Asked whether the Spanish international will be fit to feature against Thomas Frank's Bees, Silva replied: "He's going to be involved in the game."

In Mitrovic's absence, Traore's fellow new signing from Wolves Raul Jimenez will start up front. Silva confirmed: "Raul is going to start."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-team-news-brentford-mitrovic-palhinha-b1101615.html

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Saudi transfer target Mitrovic out of Fulham's home derby with Brentford
LONDON, Aug 18 (Reuters) - Saudi transfer target Aleksandar Mitrovic will miss Fulham's home Premier League game against Brentford on Saturday due to injury, manager Marco Silva said.

Mitrovic has three years left on his contract but has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia, with the West Londoners last month reportedly rejecting a 25 million pound ($31.83 million) bid from Pro League side Al-Hilal.

British media have indicated Riyadh-based Al-Hilal have since come back with a greatly improved offer of around 46 million pounds.

"Just Mitrovic is going to be out of the game, all the other players are going to be ready," Silva told reporters on Friday.

"He's out of the game because he had a problem in his ankle in the last game, he is not working with his team-mates because of the injury."

Silva said he had no information about a bid for the Serb being accepted.

"The injury is not going to be something serious where he will be out of competition for three, four weeks," added the Portuguese.

Mitrovic, 28 and Fulham's top scorer in four of the last five seasons, was a second half substitute in Fulham's opening 1-0 win at Everton.

($1 = 0.7854 pounds)

($1 = 0.9199 euros)



https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/saudi-transfer-target-mitrovic-out-fulhams-home-derby-with-brentford-2023-08-18/?rpc=401&;

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Fulham are interested in signing 29-year-old Manchester United star
Manchester United centre-back Eric Bailly could be Fulham's fourth signing this summer

Fulham have shown interest in signing Manchester United centre-back Eric Bailly on a free transfer, as stated by RMC Sport journalist Fabrice Hawkins (h/t the Daily Mail).

The Ivorian player was on loan with Marseille and participated in 23 matches across various competitions last season.

Although there was a prearranged obligation for the French club to buy him based on certain conditions, Bailly did not meet the appearance criteria necessary to activate the clause.

It has now been stated that the African defender has reached an agreement with Man United to depart on a free transfer.

The 29-year-old player has come to terms with the 20-time English champions and will leave without costing a penny.

Hence, Erik ten Hag's side will not have to deal with any payment-related matters while sorting out their player's departure.

This agreement could provide the opportunity for the Ivory Coast international to move on and secure consistent playing time with another team.

Fulham manager Marco Silva's side could be interested in making him their fourth signing of the summer. They have already acquired Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey, and Adama Traore.

Bailly showcased his potential during United's pre-season last year; however, his hesitation to remain at the club without the guarantee of consistent starting opportunities led him to choose Les Phoceens instead.

Unfortunately, his stint with Marseille was challenging. He faced a series of setbacks, including injuries and an unnecessary suspension, which caused him to miss a number of matches.

Despite securing a spot in the Champions League, the French team opted not to pursue a permanent transfer.

The United defender is presently in the final 10 months of his contract, and the Old Trafford side could offload him to free up some wages from their financial books.

Initially, the experienced player was known to have huge potential when he was brought in from Villarreal in 2016.

However, his career has been hindered by injuries and poor performance. We hoped that he could revitalise his chances of playing regularly elsewhere.



https://weallfollowunited.com/2023/08/18/manchester-united-centre-back-eric-bailly-could-be-fulhams-fourth-signing-this-summer/?utm_content=cmp-true

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Jensen passed fit for Fulham game
Brentford midfielder Mathias Jensen has been cleared to face Fulham in Saturday's derby at Craven Cottage.

Jensen limped off early in the second half against Tottenham last Sunday with a thigh injury.

But Bees boss Thomas Frank said the Dane, whose long throws form a key part of Brentford's game plan, will be fit to face the Whites.

"He's ready – that's very positive. He's going to start tomorrow," Frank said.

Defender Ben Mee, who missed the 2-2 draw with Spurs, will undergo a late fitness test to determine his availability.

Mee suffered a calf strain in a pre-season fixture against Lille earlier this month.

Midfielder Frank Onyeka has been passed fit and will be included in the squad.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/brentford/brentford-duo-fit-for-fulham-game-but-mee-a-doubt

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Mr Khan's Programme Notes
Good afternoon and welcome to Craven Cottage for the first Premier League home match of the 2023/24 season for Fulham Football Club. It's finally here, and we're ready to go!

We welcome our rival Brentford, marking the second straight season our London Derby will be contested in top-flight football. All of our encounters with the Bees in recent seasons have been memorable and meaningful, and today's match promises to be the same, with Brentford aiming for its first win of the campaign and Fulham in position to hold or extend the gap between us. To Fulham and Brentford fans in attendance, thank you for spending your afternoon at Craven Cottage.

Summertime is always a time for anticipation and conversation, and there is no doubt that has been the case for Fulham fans over the past several months. Our summer has been particularly eventful given our participation in the Premier League Summer Series in the U.S., where we trained and played three matches over eight days in Philadelphia, Orlando and Washington, D.C. I was there at every stop and thoroughly enjoyed the time I spent with our Head Coach Marco Silva, his staff and our squad. Marco and I stayed close throughout the tour, and he made it clear he believes there are great possibilities ahead for Fulham. I assured him that I see it the same.

While in the United States, I had great fun at bar and tailgate party events with our supporters, many of whom travelled long distances within the U.S. for their chance to see Fulham in person. We were also very happy to have many UK-based fans make the journey to the United States and experience our finest American tradition of summertime heat, humidity, thunder, lightning and electrical storms, all of which Marco and the players handled superbly. Everyone loved having FFC legends Les Strong, Peter Mellor, Rodney Marsh and Brian McBride make surprise appearances at the fan festivities, and their contributions to our history and club culture were certainly celebrated by all present. I thank our legends, supporters, travelling staff, Director David Daly, and the unsung hero of the tour – Billy the Badger – who made Fulhamerica truly come alive!

While our time in the U.S. was exceptional, it can't compare to the thrills our travelling supporters must have experienced a week ago today at Goodison Park. What a way to begin the season – three points away and a clean sheet in a 1-0 victory over Everton. Bernd Leno was brilliant in goal and the match-winner by Bobby De Cordova-Reid in the second half was the outcome of a fine build-up from fellow substitutes Aleksandar Mitrović and Andreas Pereira, underscoring Marco Silva's wisdom and ability to adjust.

Fulham victories are always sweet, but this one was special. It's no secret that we've had to endure rumours and speculative reporting – more so than usual – throughout the summer. Everton away was not an ideal fixture to begin the season, especially as we continue to mend from long-term and recently suffered injuries. We encountered a boisterous Goodison Park environment early on, as expected.

We also met the challenge, stuck together, got better and landed all three points. We were reminded again that we have a united and talented squad that is dedicated to Marco and fights for Fulham. Accordingly, I am committed to Marco and his players. The squad that produced a 10th-place finish last season has essentially returned intact while being bolstered by the additions of Raúl Jiménez, Calvin Bassey and Adama Traoré. We were delighted to re-sign Willian to a new contract prior to the Summer Series, and we'll continue to explore smart options in the closing weeks of the transfer market. No matter what the remaining time may bring, there is no question we have the potential to again make a strong stand this season in the Premier League.

One of the realities of acquiring new talent is having to bid farewell to players who have served us well in past seasons, such as Ivan Cavaleiro, who joins Lille on a permanent deal. Then there is Joe Bryan and Neeskens Kebano, who have moved to Millwall and Al-Jazira, respectively. Joe and Neeskens were beloved by their teammates and supporters, and delivered signature moments that we will treasure forever. I thank all players who have left to rejoin their parent or new clubs, but these gentlemen merit a special mention and our deepest gratitude.

With Steve Wigley becoming Fulham's Academy Technical Director, I am pleased to welcome Hayden Mullins as our new Under-21s Head Coach. Hayden took charge of Watford's Under-23s before managing at senior level with Colchester United, and he lives the mission of our renowned Academy to develop our youngsters as players and people. Hayden recently welcomed midfielder Chris Donnell, who joined the FFC Under-21s last month from Australian side Perth Glory and brings with him international experience, representing Australia's Under-20 programme. Our Under-21s and Under-18s will be competing at the highest Academy level, and between them will take part in the Premier League Cup, FA Youth Cup, Premier League International Cup and EFL Trophy. We wish both age groups the very best of luck for their upcoming campaigns!

I also want to send my absolute best to the Fulham Women's team that will open its season at Motspur Park on Sunday against newly promoted Ashford United. We have a new infusion of talent on the FFCW squad, with the arrivals of Anisha Hill, Frankie Gibbs, Ella Tagliavini, Sophie Manzi, Madi Parsonson, Ellie Parker, Mia Adaway, Olivia Dale and Betty Barron-Clark, and the entire squad will enter the season well-prepared after training this summer against teams in Tier 3 and 4. Good luck to head coach Steve Jaye, his staff and FFCW!

While we have ample reason to be optimistic across all of our programmes, there is a lot to celebrate off the pitch as well. We have three new sponsors whose investment in your Club cannot be overstated. We're fortunate to have SBOTOP as our Front of Shirt and Principal Partner, WebBeds as our Official Sleeve and Principal Partner, and Royal Caribbean International as our Official Family Partner. Commercial partnerships, small or large, are vital to a club the size of Fulham, and our goal is to repay our sponsors many times over with entertaining football played in front of the best supporters in the game.

To that point, Fulham fans have once again outdone themselves with record-high season ticket purchases entering this afternoon's home opener, ensuring that each home match will deliver a genuine and unmistakeable advantage to Marco and his squad. We released extra season tickets in the Riverside Stand due to demand, and the renewal rate elsewhere was predictably strong. We may be known as a small club, but Fulham supporters are outsized in their passion and love for their team. I experienced it in the U.S. last month, saw it last Saturday at Everton, and no doubt will feel it today when we host Brentford. All I can say is, thank you to our faithful season ticket purchasers, members and match ticket buyers for your commitment. You're the best!

Finally, I am honoured to be starting my 11th season as your Chairman. We've had relegations, promotions, a global pandemic and much more since I arrived in July 2013, but there has been one powerful and positive constant – the leadership of Alistair Mackintosh. This is the 15th anniversary season for Alistair as the CEO of Fulham Football Club, and it's a milestone that I'm certainly celebrating. At every level of our Club, from the game to the business to the community and much more, Fulham's reputation and promise are remarkably strong, thanks to Alistair. I have counted on Alistair's acumen and guidance from the start, and am extremely grateful for his selflessness and service to London's Original Football Club. Congratulations and thank you, Alistair!

My best wishes to all for a spectacular outing today on the banks of the River Thames. Fulham and Brentford enjoy a fascinating rivalry that has played out in recent years at Griffin Park, GTech Community Stadium, Wembley Stadium and even Lincoln Financial Field last month in Philadelphia. But nothing compares to when the two teams meet here at historic Craven Cottage, with bragging rights and valuable points on the line. Here's to an afternoon of fantastic football and a Fulham victory!

Come on, Fulham!



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/18/mr-khans-programme-notes/

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Marco Silva cannot confirm Fulham stance on Al-Hilal, Mitrovic bid – 'I don't have this information'
Marco Silva did not give anything away about Aleksandar Mitrovic's future at Fulham but revealed he will miss Saturday's Premier League match against Brentford.

Mitrovic, who has been heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, sustained a knock during Fulham's opening-day 1-0 victory over Everton.

The Serbian will be replaced by new signing Raul Jimenez at Craven Cottage.

"No, I don't have this information (that a bid for Mitrovic has been accepted)," Silva said.

"He is out of the game because he rolled his ankle in the last game, he is not working with his team-mates because he is injured.

"Raul is going to start.

"I am focusing on the game – we have people who take care of it (transfer business).

"The injury is not going to be something serious where he will be out of competition for three, four weeks."

Silva praised Jimenez, who joined from Wolves for a fee understood to be in the region of £5.5million this summer, and says his "skills" can help Fulham.

The Mexican scored 17 times in the Premier League in the 2019/20 season but has struggled for goals over the last two campaigns following his return from a serious head injury suffered in November 2020.

But Silva believes he can help the striker return to his former level.

The manager said: "We hope (he can find his old form), we are here to help him like we helped our other players in the last two seasons.

"With what we've managed with the other players in my time at Fulham, I think we can do the same with Raul.

"We can see he has very good skills to help us and he offers different things for us.

"Last season sometimes we missed not having a mobile striker, Raul can give us this and I am confident we can keep him on a very good level. Goals will help him.

"I knew him very well in Portugal before he came to the Premier League. When he is in a very good moment he can score, he is strong with the head, he can attack the space, can play with both feet and can finish as well.

"His numbers in his first two, three seasons were impressive and he helped his team to be stronger, but it is now up to us to help him and make him go further to the level he can be."

Jimenez is one of three summer signings for the west London club alongside defender Calvin Bassey from Ajax and Adama Traore on a free transfer.

And Silva called for further additions before the end of the transfer window.

He said: "The reality is our reality and we are short in numbers in some positions. We have only two ful-lbacks in our squad, that means we need two more full-backs to come to our football club and we need at least two more positions to join our squad."



https://www.football365.com/news/marco-silva-cannot-confirm-fulham-stance-al-hilal-mitrovic-bid

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Marco Silva reveals Jay Stansfield plan as Championship clubs circle for Fulham striker

Jay Stansfield is in daily contact with manager Marco Silva as Fulham consider which of five Championship clubs to loan him out to.

Standard Sport revealed on Monday that Queens Park Rangers have approached Fulham and are one of a number of Championship clubs hopeful of signing 20-year-old striker on loan this season.

Millwall and Sunderland are also interested in the youngster, with at least two more Championship clubs also thought to have sounded Fulham out over a potential loan deal.

Stansfield has been in the Fulham first team since 2019, and has made eight appearance for the club, scoring once.

He scored nine goals in 36 matches on loan at Exeter City last season — the club at which he started his career.

"It is a good sign that all these clubs — and they are good Championship clubs — want Jay", said Silva.

"He is a fantastic boy and we all love him at this football club. He wants to play football every single weekend. We are going to make a decision for him, but it depends on our market as well and our squad.

"Even if it was in a lower division for eight months [last season at League One Exeter], he has come back stronger and grown as a football player.

"We don't want to put him at just any club. He needs to go to a club that plays a certain way."

Silva added: "I am in contact with him every day. I know what he would like to happen but let's see what is best for the club as well."

Fellow first-team youngster Luke Harris, 18, is unlikely to be allowed out on loan this season, despite rumours he may be off to Exeter.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/jay-stansfield-fulham-marco-silva-b1101686.html

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Silva wants right move for Stansfield
Marco Silva has conceded that Fulham forward Jay Stansfield could leave on loan this season – but only if he finds the right destination for the youngster.

Silva has been impressed with the 20 year-old, who has been involved in all of Fulham's pre-season friendlies and was an unused substitute in the 1-0 win at Everton that opened the new campaign, since he returned from an emotional loan spell at Exeter City in May. Stansfield scored nine times in 36 games at St. James' Park, where he wore the number nine shirt that had been retired in memory of his late father Adam.

Grecians manager Gary Caldwell admitted today that Tiverton-born Stansfield wouldn't be returning to Exeter this season and recent reports claimed that several Championship sides, including Queens Park Rangers, Millwall and Sunderland hold an interest in taking the England under-20 international on loan.

The Fulham head coach told his press conference at Motspur Park this afternoon:

"It is a good sign that all these clubs — and they are good Championship clubs — want Jay. He is a fantastic boy and we all love him at this football club. He wants to play football every single weekend. We are going to make a decision for him, but it depends on our market as well and our squad.

Even if it was in a lower division for eight months, he has come back stronger and grown as a football player. We don't want to put him at just any club. He needs to go to a club that plays a certain way. I am in contact with him every day. I know what he would like to happen but let's see what is best for the club as well."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/silva-wants-right-move-for-stansfield/