Thursday Fulham Stuff - 18/01/24...

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Wolves join Fulham in the race for Chelsea striker Armando Broja... but a move depends on the Blues' search for attacking reinforcements this January

    Wolves are keen on signing Chelsea centre forward Armando Broja this month
    Broja has made 17 appearances for the Blues this summer scoring twice

Wolves are keen on signing Chelsea striker Armando Broja during the January transfer window.

Much will depend on Chelsea's own search for a striker as they explore the market for late opportunities.

Fulham have also discussed Broja, who has struggled for starts with the Blues this season.

Broja has made 17 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions so far this campaign, scoring twice.

It followed the Albanian international's return to fitness in September after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury which kept him on the sidelines for nine months.


Wolves have joined Fulham in the race to sign Chelsea striker Armando Broja in January
 

Gary O'Neil's side are among those keen on signing the Albanian international centre forward
The 22-year-old has largely been used as a substitute behind first choice forward Nicolas Jackson.

Broja could drop further down the pecking order should Chelsea added a forward in the window this month.

The forward had previously impressed on loan at Southampton during the 2021-22 season, netting nine goals in 38 matches for the Saints.

Chelsea are set to be strengthened by Christopher Nkunku imminent return to fitness from injury.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12971815/Wolves-Fulham-Chelsea-striker-Armando-Broja.html

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Sources: Fulham race Brentford and West Ham to sign Plymouth Argyle star Morgan Whittaker
Fulham have joined London rivals West Ham and Brentford in the race for Plymouth star Morgan Whittaker, sources have told Football Insider.

The 23-year-old has been a standout performer in the Championship this season and his form has not gone unnoticed by several Premier League clubs.

Whittaker has scored an impressive 15 goals and provided six assists in 29 appearances in all competitions this season.

The Plymouth star has netted six goals in his last six league games.

Brentford and West Ham have been keeping tabs on Whittaker as they look to bolster their attacking options and now Fulham are ready to join the race for the attacking midfielder's signature.

His 14 Championship strikes this season put him behind only Sammie Szmodics in the race for the division's Golden Boot award.

Whittaker returned to Plymouth permanently last summer (2023) after seeing a loan spell at Home Park cut short just months earlier.

It has been widely reported that the ex-Swansea star cost Argyle a club-record fee of just £1million plus add-ons.

The midfielder notched nine goals and seven assists in the first half of the 2022-23 campaign to help Plymouth achieve promotion to the Championship, but was recalled by Swansea in January 2023.

He managed just one goal in 15 Swans appearances last term after returning to Wales.

Plymouth now stand to land a huge profit on Whittaker if he makes the move to the Premier League.

The Devon club sit 19th in the Championship this term and are eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Meanwhile, London trio Fulham, Brentford and West Ham sit 13th, 16th and sixth respectively in the Premier League table.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-race-brentford-and-west-ham-to-sign-plymouth-argyle-star-morgan-whittaker/

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Fulham have 'given up' on transfer idea – Double barrier makes them look elsewhere
Fulham have 'given up' on trying to secure a deal for Atletico Madrid defender Çağlar Söyüncü after finding the player and his club resistant to a move.

That's according to AS, who say Fulham and Roma have dropped out of the race for the centre back and he now has three options left on the table.

Söyüncü only joined Atletico in the summer on a free transfer but has barely featured for Diego Simeone's side this season.

He now wants to depart, albeit temporarily, so he can get regular game time in the second half of the season and ensure he is part of Turkey's plans at Euro 2024.

Fulham had been one of the sides looking into a potential deal for him, but several reports had indicated there was a growing confidence that the other suitors had jumped ahead of them.

AS now indicate that Fulham may have allowed them to do so, stating that Marco Silva's side 'have given up' on the transfer idea for various reasons but mostly because of the player's own will and that of Atletico's management.

That would seem to suggest that Söyüncü wasn't keen on the move anyway and Fulham found Atletico's demands unreasonable.

Thus, it appears he will be going elsewhere, most likely back to Turkey, and those in charge at Craven Cottage will look for a new defender somewhere else.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-given-transfer-idea-double-barrier-makes-look-elsewhere/

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Stanno Makes FA Cup Impact!
Jay Stansfield put on a show yesterday evening, grabbing a goal and an assist to help fire Birmingham City through to the FA Cup fourth round.

The forward, who came on as a substitute in the 63rd minute, converted from a rebound to score his eighth goal of the season before cleverly cutting the ball back to Koji Miyoshi who scored the late winner against Hull City.

The result represents Tony Mowbray's first win as Birmingham manager.

A big first 𝗪 under the boss.

Let's have your Player of the Match, Bluenoses... 📊

— Birmingham City FC (@BCFC) January 16, 2024

Thanks to Stanno's incredible impact, he was also voted the Man of the Match, narrowly beating Miyoshi.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/17/Loan-Round-Up-Stanno-Makes-FA-Cup-Impact/

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Fulham weigh up Whittaker move
Fulham are reportedly weighing up whether to join Brentford and West Ham United in the race to sign Plymouth Argyle star Morgan Whittaker, according to Football Insider.

The Whites have scouted the 23 year-old forward extensively this season as he has hit fifteen goals and made six more in 29 matches as Argyle returned to the second tier. The former Derby County academy graduate has found the net in each of last six appearances having arrived at Home Park for a bargain initial £1m from Swansea City last summer.

Plymouth will be loathe to let their prized asset leave as they look to ensure Championship safety and, although Marco Silva is known to be interested in strengthening his attacking options, he has previously disclosed that the January window is likely to be a quiet one for the Cottagers owing to their current FFP position.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-weigh-up-whittaker-move/

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Stansfield wants to stay at Blues, says Mowbray
New Birmingham boss Tony Mowbray is confident that Jay Stansfield will stay at St. Andrew's after the on-loan Fulham forward came off the bench to inspire the Blues to a come from behind FA Cup win over Hull City last night.

The Cottagers have only a few more days to recall the 21 year-old under the terms of his season-long loan, but Mowbray has yet to hear from Marco Silva. Stansfield, who has scored eight goals and made three more for Birmingham, has also attracted interest from Sunderland and Ipswich Town in the event that the Whites would be willing to terminate the deal in the Midlands and send him elsewhere but Mowbray, who took over from Wayne Rooney earlier this month, believes the former Exeter City striker is happy at City.

Speaking to the media after Stansfield sparked a comeback to book Blues' place in the FA Cup fourth round, Mowbray said:

"I have been trying to get hold of Marco the last couple of days. I get on well with Marco Silva and I'm pretty sure he would have been telling me if there were any issues or problems. I think the kid loves it here, ultimately. I've had a one-on-one with him and looked him in the eye. There are other interested parties, I think he wants to stay here and score goals. He likes the dressing room, he likes the players. I think he's here to progress his career.

If he wants to play in the Premier League then he needs to be playing in the Championship. And you have to be careful sometimes when the perception of a more successful club come along, nearer the top of the table. If he wants to play in the Premier League then he needs to be playing in the Championship. And you have to be careful sometimes when the perception of a more successful club come along, nearer the top of the table.

Maybe you've got to be careful you don't go there and play two games of the last 19, whereas there's every chance he's going to play just about all the minutes in this team. I think he's in a good place here. I don't know. But there is a very tight window for things to happen now if needs be."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/stansfield-wants-to-stay-at-blues-says-mowbray/

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West Ham, Fulham and Brentford interested in 14-goal Plymouth Argyle forward
The London trio have joined Serie A outfit Atalanta in being potentially keen on a deal for prolific Plymouth attacker Morgan Whittaker

Plymouth Argyle have been hit with blows multiple times in the last month with some significant departures, but they will be hoping to keep hold of their talisman Morgan Whittaker ahead of the January 31 transfer deadline.

Following a half-season loan stint at the Pilgrims in League One that proved to be really successful in 2022-23, Swansea City recalled Whittaker in January 2023 and he went on to be part of Russell Martin's squad for the rest of the season, but he scored just once and only started twice in 15 outings.

That led to his sale to Plymouth following their promotion for a fee in excess of £1 million, and it's clear to see that Whittaker feels at home in Devon as he's scored 14 times and assisted a further five goals in the Championship.

Brentford, West Ham and Fulham join Whittaker chase
Perhaps unfortunately for Pilgrims fans though, that kind of form will get you noticed, and Whittaker is certainly attracting significant attention from the Premier League and abroad.

It was claimed by the Daily Mail's Transfer Confidential column earlier this week that Serie A outfit Atalanta - who are in the knockout stages of the UEFA Europa League - had British scout Mick Doherty check the 23-year-old out in action against Huddersfield Town at the weekend, and it's likely he would have been impressed after he scored 12 minutes into the match.

There is more interest in Whittaker though domestically, with Football Insider claiming that three London clubs - Fulham, Brentford and West Ham United - have all been keeping tabs on the prolific forward and all could be ready to make a move this month.

The Bees and Hammers have both been linked with Sunderland talisman Jack Clarke, who plays on the opposite flank to Whittaker, who operates on the right and cuts in onto his left foot, but there is a chance that the Plymouth man could be the cheaper alternative.

Premier League move may be too soon for Whittaker
So far, the 2023-24 Championship season has seemingly been the year of the winger or the unconventional forward, with traditional central strikers seemingly going out of the window.

None of the players with double figures in terms of goals in the second tier of English football are your typical striker, with Sammie Szmodics being more of an attacking midfielder, Southampton's Adam Armstrong playing out wide and as a number 10 as much as he does as the leading man, whilst Crysencio Summerville, Jonathan Rowe and Jack Clarke are all wingers.

Whittaker is the final player in that 10-goal or more category, and it's easy to see why he'd be linked with the top flight as many of the top Championship scorers this season have been already.

But considering this is the first season of his career that he has been scoring on a prolific basis, Whittaker may be better ignoring the speculation and remaining at Home Park for the rest of the season and reassessing the options in the summer.

Plymouth regardless stand to make a significant profit on Whittaker if he carries on his current form, so it's perhaps time for Argyle fans to enjoy him whilst they can.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/west-ham-fulham-and-brentford-interested-in-plymouth-argyle-forward-morgan-whittaker/

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David Ornstein says Premier League club are 'willing to let' £17.5m forward leave amid Fulham interest
Fulham are yet to make a move in the January transfer window but may be buoyed by the decision from Chelsea to let Armando Broja leave this month.

Marco Silva has yet to have the chance to make any additions to his squad with his side sitting 13th in the Premier League.

Posting on social media, David Ornstein has now said that Chelsea have decided that Albanian international forward Armando Broja can leave Stamford Bridge.

Fulham fans will be well aware of the £17.5m-rated forward after his performances against the Whites this season.

The 22-year-old started both matches for Chelsea against Fulham this season.

While he didn't trouble Bernd Leno at Stamford Bridge last weekend, he did get on the score sheet during their 2-0 win at Craven Cottage in October.

Broja dispossessed Tim Ream in his box and deflected the ball into an empty net moments after Mykhaylo Mudryk opened the scoring.

After Carlos Vinicius's heroics last season, Fulham have suffered back-to-back defeats to their biggest rivals.

However, despite starting Chelsea's last match, Broja could be allowed to leave amid interest from Fulham.

Replacing Aleksandar Mitrovic hasn't been an easy task for Fulham this season.

While Raul Jimenez is continuing to improve, having a younger option in the squad with Premier League pedigree might not be the worst idea.

Fulham target Broja allowed to leave Chelsea
Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Ornstein said: "Chelsea willing to let Armando Broja leave on permanent if suitable offer received.

"Interest from multiple clubs including Fulham, West Ham & Wolves. Not contingent on #CFC signing replacement + Nkunku expected back soon."

Fulham will be encouraged by Ornstein's update considering he believes Chelsea don't need to sign a replacement before letting Broja leave.

However, despite his goal against the Whites earlier in the season, the Albanian international might not be the best signing.

He looked competent on loan at Southampton without blowing anyone away.

On his return to Chelsea, he's failed to impress, despite the centre-forward role being wide open due to Christopher Nkunku's injury.

Fulham need to think very carefully about whether Broja is the right player to potentially play up top for them for the next few years.

Given Fulham are unlikely to have huge sums to spend this month, entering into a bidding war with West Ham and Wolves would be advised against as well.



https://www.fulham.news/2024/01/17/david-ornstein-says-premier-league-club-are-willing-to-let-17-5m-forward-leave-amid-fulham-interest/

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Fulham back in for Broja?
Fulham are considering whether to revive their interest in Armando Broja after Chelsea opened up the possibility of the Albanian international leaving Stamford Bridge permanently this month.

The Blues had rebuffed Fulham's enquiry about a potential loan deal in November with the player himself keen to fight for his place under Mauricio Pochettino. The 22 year-old's only goals this season have come against Fulham at Craven Cottage in October and in the FA Cup win over Preston North End earlier this month. He failed to score against the Whites in last weekend's SW6 derby and was substituted early in the second half.

Broja's chances of regular game-time at Chelsea will diminish with the earlier than expected return from injury of Christopher Nkunku and after Nicolas Jackson finishes his international duty at the African Cup of Nations with Senegal. The Athletic's David Ornstein revealed this afternoon that Broja's departure would not be contingent on Chelsea signing a replacement, with the club seeking to streamline their squad in the closing weeks of the January transfer window.

Marco Silva is keen to supplement his striking options this month if possible and both Carlos Vinicius and Rodgrio Muniz have been heavily linked with returns to Brazil. Fulham will face competition from West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers as well as a number of continental clubs.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-back-in-for-broja/

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Chelsea 'are willing to let Armando Broja leave on a permanent deal' provided they receive a 'suitable offer' for the striker... as Wolves and Fulham enter the race to sign the Blues forward

    Chelsea 'are willing to sell' Armando Broja, should they receive a suitable offer
    It comes as both Wolves and Fulham have expressed an interest in the striker

Chelsea are reportedly 'willing' to allow Armando Broja to leave on a 'permanent basis' provided they receive 'suitable offers' for the striker.

It comes as Mail Sport reported last week that the 22-year-old is the subject of interest from both Wolves and Fulham.

According to The Athletic, the club are willing to 'let the striker leave on a pernament basis', with his departure reportedly 'not contingent on Chelsea signing a replacement'.

Christopher Nkunku, meanwhile, is expected to return from injury soon and is set to return to training this week.

Broja, meanwhile, has struggled to break into Mauricio Pochettino's starting eleven this season.

The Albania international, who has 17 caps for the national side, has also made 17 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions this season, scoring twice.

In the Premier League, he has started just six games this season, after coming back from an anterior cruciate ligament tear that had kept him sildelined for just under a year.

More recently, he started in Chelsea's FA Cup victory against Preston, and after a goalless first-half, broke the deadlock scoring a well-taken header in the 58th minute.

Broja had scored nine goals in 38 appearances across all competitions while on loan at Southampton during the 2021-22 season, but has struggled to impress on his return.

Broja celebrated wildly after scoring against Preston, with Pochettino stating after the game: 'It was really important for him.'

'I need to be honest, he needs to use this type of game to score and to feel the net and to improve. Improve not only in his fitness, but his body language also. He needs to step up and to go forward and to move. He needs to be more positive.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12974319/Chelsea-Armando-Broja-Wolves-Fulham-Mauricio-Pochettino.html

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Fulham abandon pursuit of Caglar Soyuncu

Fulham wanted to sign Caglar Soyuncu from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window but will not pursue the 27-year-old.
According to a report by Spanish outlet AS, Caglar Soyuncu has been the subject of interest from Fulham. But the Cottagers have given up the move for the 27-year-old centre-back. Recent updates had suggested that the Atletico Madrid defender did not want to join the West London club.

Caglar Soyuncu and his Atletico Madrid Struggles
Caglar Soyuncu would have hoped to spend the peak years of his career at a top La Liga club after joining Atletico Madrid in the summer transfer window. The Turkish international arrived at the Civitas Metropolitano in a Bosman move after his half-decade-long stint with Leicester City ended on July 1, 2023.

But the 27-year-old has struggled to carve out a place for himself in the Atletico Madrid backline. He has managed only 213 minutes of game time across nine appearances thus far for Los Rojiblancos. So, it is hardly surprising that Soyuncu will likely leave Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window.

The Turk has no shortage of suitors despite his frustrating situation at the Civitas Metropolitano. Recent reports linked Caglar Soyuncu with Fulham, who had even submitted an offer to sign him from Atletico Madrid. But a move will not see the light of day.
 
Fulham Will Not Sign Soyuncu
Fulham entered the January transfer window eager to sign a centre-back due to the uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Tosin Adarabioyo. The former Manchester City defender has entered the final six months of his contract with the West London club. So, a winter move away from Fulham might be on the cards for Adarabioyo.

The Cottagers have thus been scouring the market for a centre-back this month. Caglar Soyuncu emerged as a viable target for Fulham, with the Craven Cottage reportedly being a "tempting" destination. But those suggestions have been unfounded, and the 27-year-old will not join Fulham, with the club abandoning the move.

With Soyuncu barely showing any interest in returning to the Premier League, Fulham had no chance of securing his services. It will be interesting to see where he lands and who the Cottagers identify as an alternative to the Turkish international.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/01/17/fulham-abandon-pursuit-of-caglar-soyuncu/

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Chelsea defender emerges as January loan target for Fulham
Fulham have reportedly joined the race to sign Trevoh Chalobah.

That's according to a recent report from Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, who claims the Chelsea defender is wanted by the Blues' cross-town rivals.

Expected to leave Stamford Bridge this month after being made surplus to requirements by Mauricio Pochettino, Chalobah, 24, has been rumoured to be wanted by several clubs, including West Ham.

However, according to Plettenberg, Marco Silva is prepared to rival interested clubs for the out of favour 24-year-old's signature.

The Cottagers are expected to lose Tosin Adarabayio, either this month, or at the end of the season, after reports emerged linking the soon-to-be free agent with a move to Serie A giants AC Milan.

As for Chalobah – with the young centre-back unlikely to make it in Chelsea's first team, a move away, even if it is just a loan, is almost guaranteed.

During the defender's time at Stamford Bridge he has contributed to five goals in 63 games in all competitions.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2024/01/17/fulham-interested-in-signing-trevoh-chalobah-on-loan-from-chelsea/

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'English sirens' – Fulham 'continue to monitor' experienced defender, seen as one of most 'reliable' players around
Back in the summer of 2022, many stories from the Italian media claimed that Fulham were interested in Alessio Rogmanoli.

The defender was on his way out of AC Milan at the time, and it was even claimed the Whites were 'ready to close' a deal to sign him.

Well, that never happened, but according to today's report from Calciomercato, Fulham are still interested in his signing.

The outlet today highlights the 'English sirens' there is for the player, as some other clubs such as Brighton & Hove Albion and Newcastle United are now keen on his arrival.

Regarding Fulham, the website first recalls that the Whites 'thought' about him in the past, and says they 'continue to monitor' him, as he's one of the most 'reliable' players around.

Now Marco Silva's side would need to deal with Lazio, with Calciomercato making it clear that their president Claudio Lotito is difficult to negotiate with.

Convincing Romagnoli doesn't seem such a big problem. Because even though he's said to be focused on his season with the Serie A side, it's claimed that he never ruled out an adventure abroad and a good offer could attract him.


http://sportwitness.co.uk/english-sirens-fulham-continue-monitor-experienced-defender-seen-one-reliable-players-around/

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Fulham now want to sign 'unbelievable' Chelsea player in the coming days
Marco Silva's Fulham are now interested in signing Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea this month.

We're just two weeks away from the end of the transfer window this month, and things are heating up. All eyes will be on incomings at Chelsea, but there are a few who could leave too. Chalobah is one of them.

Fulham want to sign Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea
It is clear as day now that Trevoh Chalobah has no future at Chelsea.

The 24-year-old hasn't played a single game under Mauricio Pochettino this season, and the expectation is that he will be allowed to leave before the window shuts this month.

Tottenham Hotspur were reportedly interested in Chalobah, while Bayern Munich were also linked with a move to sign him.

Sadly, neither of those clubs will sign him this month as Spurs have already brought in Radu Dragusin and Eric Dier has joined Bayern.

Now, Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Fulham are keen to sign the Chelsea defender on loan until the end of the season.

Chalobah needs to leave Chelseac
Trevoh Chalobah has to leave Chelsea this month.

The 24-year-old, whose performance against Villarreal in the Super Cup in 2021 was hailed as 'unbelievable' by Rio Ferdinand on FIVE, cannot be sitting at home for months without kicking a ball.

He has immense potential and has already shown how good he can be at the top level under Thomas Tuchel during his time as Chelsea manager.

A move to Fulham, who have been really good this season, makes a lot of sense, and we think Chalobah would be a big hit under Marco Silva at Craven Cottage.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-now-want-to-sign-unbelievable-chelsea-player-in-the-coming-days/

[WhiteJC]

Three Premier League clubs interested in Lazio defender Romagnoli – report
Lazio centre-back Alessio Romagnoli is attracting plenty of attention, particularly from the Premier League, as Fulham, Brighton and Newcastle have all registered an interest in the 29-year-old according to recent reports.

Romagnoli, who celebrated his 29th birthday on Friday, has proved himself to be one of the more reliable centre-back options in Serie A in recent years, despite recent injuries, but has not yet had an opportunity to test himself outside of the Italian top flight.

According to Calciomercato.com, Fulham have had a long-standing interest in the former Milan defender and continue to monitor him.

Brighton and Fulham are the more recent additions to the list of interested parties, as both are in the market for reinforcements at centre-back according to various reports throughout January.

Romagnoli's mind is currently on his commitments with Lazio, including the upcoming Supercoppa Italiana, but Calciomercato note that a move away from the Stadio Olimpico in 2024 should not be ruled out, despite his contract running until the summer of 2027.

That said, any interested club will first have to negotiate with President Claudio Lotitio, which is not usually a particularly straightforward task.

Romagnoli played the full 90 minutes in all of Roma's first 12 Serie A matches of the 2023-24 season, but a calf injury kept him out of action from the end of November until the end of December.

He has since appeared off the bench against Udinese, and managed 66 minutes against Lecce over the weekend.



https://football-italia.net/three-premier-league-clubs-interested-in-lazio-defender-romagnoli-report/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham chase Chalobah loan
Fulham are in discussions with Chelsea over a loan deal for their out-of-favour centre back Trevoh Chalobah, according to various reports this afternoon.

The 24 year-old, whose brother Nathaniel spent two seasons at Craven Cottage, has not made a single appearance for Chelsea this season and is looking to leave Stamford Bridge this month. According to Sky Germany, Fulham are negotiating a loan deal with an option to buy as Chalobah's versatility means he can play as a defensive midfielder as well as the heart of the back four.

Chalobah has made 63 senior appearances for Chelsea, scoring four goals, and played 33 games last season but has been usurped by Pochettino's signings since he replaced Graham Potter. He has had loan spells at Ipswich Town, Huddersfield Town and Lorient but is desperate to play first-team football. Chalobah's former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel explored the possibility of signing the Freetown-born defender for Bayern Munich this month before turning his attentions to Eric Dier instead.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/01/fulham-chase-chalobah-loan/

[WhiteJC]

Alex Iwobi aims for Africa Cup of Nations triumph with Nigeria despite challenging start
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi concedes that securing a victory against Ivory Coast on Thursday night is imperative for silencing critics following Nigeria's underwhelming performance in the Africa Cup

The Super Eagles could only manage a 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea, a side 46 places below them in FIFA's global rankings, and next face a tough test in Group A challengers and AFCON hosts Ivory Coast.

Sunday's stalemate left some speculating whether or not Nigeria, among the tournament favourites, have what it takes to advance in the tournament, with fears they could face an early exit without swift improvement.

Iwobi told Nigerian media: "We're excited. We thought we should have won. We know it's not going to be easy but we'll analyse the team and see what we can do.

"The only way to correct that impression is if we win. As long as you win, all of a sudden you're giving your best. That's the only way to keep the critics quiet.

"I always enjoy playing for the national team. To win (AFCON) would be my biggest dream, so hopefully that is something I can achieve."

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen shone brightest for Nigeria in their opener, closely followed by Alhassan Yusuf, who was forced off in the second half.

Super Eagles boss Jose Peserio told Nigerian media the midfielder would miss the Ivory Coast encounter, but could still return to face Guinea-Bissau for their final group stage encounter.

Ivory Coast enter the contest bolstered by a 2-0 triumph against Guinea-Bissau, and head coach Jean-Louis Gasset is preparing for CAF African footballer of the year Osimhen to cause problems once again.

He told a press conference: "We know the strengths of Nigeria, they have an impressive offensive armada.

"They have the best African player in their squad, but against them, we will have to raise our game, and I know my players will do it because I know you have to win that first game to be released."



https://www.planetsport.com/soccer/news/alex-iwobi-aims-for-africa-cup-of-nations-triumph-with-nigeria-despite-challenging-start

[WhiteJC]

Liverpool vs Fulham referee confirmed 4 months after 'crazy' VAR error
Fulham vs Liverpool will be refereed by Simon Hooper - four months after his 'crazy' error against the Reds. It hasn't been received well.

The EFL have officially announced the referees for the Carabao Cup semi-final second legs. Liverpool will take on Fulham at Craven Cottage, of course, having won the first leg 2-1 at Anfield.

But it's certainly a controversial choice of referee. Simon Hooper will take to the pitch for this one - four months after his historic blunder against the Reds.

That came as Liverpool played away at Tottenham Hotspur. They were down to 10 men at the time but managed to take the lead through Luis Diaz. Only, it was disallowed for offside, wrongly.

Diaz was onside but VAR inexplicably failed to override the decision despite seeing that for a fact. Much confusion followed and the VAR audio was released after calls to do so.

Hooper was the VAR for the game and audio showed him go through the motions, declaring a 'good process' and that the onfield decision was a correct one. However, Hooper was under the impression that the onfield decision was 'goal'. It's unclear why he thought that.

The game was restarted with a free kick - prompting shock from Hooper as he realised his mistake. Liverpool went on to lose the game 1-0 in stoppage time (and down to nine men).

Jurgen Klopp said after the game that he'd witnessed "the most unfair circumstances and crazy decisions", referring to the 'offside' and both red cards for Liverpool. He'd later call for the game to be replayed once the VAR audio was out.

Hooper was not officiated a Liverpool game since but will lead proceedings next Wednesday for a huge game. To say he'll be under the microscope is an enormous understatement - fans haven't exactly taken the news well that he'll be in charge.



https://anfieldwatch.co.uk/liverpool-vs-fulham-referee-confirmed-4-months-after-crazy-var-error/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Transfer Rumour Round-Up: Söyüncü, Matic, Chalobah

Want to know who else Fulham could unveil minutes before Deadline Day comes to a close? Cam's got you covered.

We're seemingly in the clear with PSR Premier League ruling, we've still got a few domestic loans to make the most of and given our dealings in the summer, we've probably got a wedge of cash to flaunt as well, if we fancy it. We've a little less than two weeks to wrap a few deals up if we can or indeed want to, so here's the latest rumours that have cropped up since our last edition.

Felipe Anderson – SS Lazio

Premier League duo Aston Villa and Fulham, as well as Serie A giants Juventus, are set to slog it out for for Lazio's Felipe Anderson, as per Italian outlet Calciomercato. Formerly of West Ham United, Anderson is more than familiar with life in the English top-flight and as he is choking over a new deal at the Stadio Olimpico, a move back to the British Isles could very well be in the offing if his wage demands can be stomached.

The 30-year-old winger is after €4m per annum, and it's said Lazio are only comfortable with offering the Brazilian a four-year contract worth €3.5m a year. Those figures may seem fairly steep, however Anderson has been in pretty decent form for le Aquile this season, as his 2 goals and 6 assists in 20 outings attest. Don't get me wrong, his return isn't world beating but he is a key figure for Maurizio Sarri and actually, I fully expect him to remain at the Rome-based side for the remainder of the campaign at the very least.

Çağlar Söyüncü – Atletico Madrid

Fulham's slim hopes of landing Atletico Madrid's Çağlar Söyüncü have been railroaded as it's emerged – via Daily Mail – that the ex-Leicester City centre-back doesn't want to swap La Liga for SW6 whatsoever and in light of this, I couldn't be more delighted.

The Turkey international defender has been cast out of Diego Simeone's selection this season, he's only taken to the turf for 213 minutes across 9 outings and while the Whites could offer him greater game time, the 27-year-old just isn't tempted by the prospect of a return to the Premier League, so it's probably best to leave Lord Farquaad to it in the Spanish capital. Ho-hum, then.

Wilfried Gnonto – Leeds United

During the summer transfer window, Leeds United's Wilfried Gnonto was allegedly on Fulham's watchlist but the young Italian stayed put. Now, subject to a SportLens report, Fulham have been associated with Gnonto yet again and this time, they've also been joined by David Moyes' West Ham.

While the 20-year-old hasn't been firing for Leeds this season, he is still a prospect I'd love Fulham to take a chance on at some point because when he's at the very top of his game, he is a nightmare for fullbacks to track and trace. He was sidelined for a month earlier in the campaign and as he's only notched a goal and an assist in 21 appearances so far, it's obvious he isn't enjoying his football under Daniel Farke but as he is a tried and tested young talent, it's likely he'd cost a pretty penny, especially midway through the season. Maybe one for later, not right this second.

Ramón Sosa – CA Talleres

ESPN journalist Roberto Rojas has disclosed that Everton and Fulham are supposedly monitoring CA Talleres attacker Ramón Sosa. The 8-time Paraguay international is valued at $15m by his employers and as the Argentine Primera División is due to commence later this month, both the Toffees and the Whites will have to act quickly if they're to lure him from South America.

Last season, Sosa's goal contribution was eye-catching. the 24-year-old tallied 10 goals and 7 assists as Tallares finished second to River Plate, so there's no mystery as to why he is rated so highly by both his national set-up and his club. He's evidently a useful player but in truth, I don't think we'll hear anymore of this in the coming weeks as the window comes to a close.

Ronnie Edwards – Peterborough United

Being one of League One's rising stars, Ronnie Edwards is attracting notable interest from the Premier League and it's TEAMtalk's understanding that the Hammers, Crystal Palace and Fulham are keen on the 20-year-old centre-half. Peterborough are only behind league leaders Portsmouth by a single point and they also have a game in-hand, and Edwards' efforts have been massively important to his side's successes to date.

The England U20 representative has 18 months left on his standing deal at London Road, however The Posh are aware that Edwards is destined to play at a much higher level before long. They'll surely want to do all they can to retain his impressive services for the time being, though, especially as a title push is very much on the cards. Definitely a defender to look out for in the not-so-distant future.

Frank Onyeka – Brentford

This isn't likely to happen because Brentford just aren't going to negotiate with us in any way, shape or form but The Guardian believe the Whites, and Everton predominantly, are wanting to acquire unsettled Bees midfielder Frank Onyeka on loan.

The Nigeria international is currently competing at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations alongside Fulham's Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi but as the 26-year-old isn't a regular starter for Thomas Frank, it's thought he is angling for Lego Land's exit door and the brighter side of south west London could be an option. It just ain't gonna happen, though, and other than us and the Toffees, Fiorentina, RC Lens and Villarreal CF are also said to be in the running. Onyeka penned a new four-year deal last summer and is valued at £20m.

Nemanja Matic – Stade Rennais

Respected Italian correspondent Gianluca Di Marzio broke the news that Rennes' veteran midfielder Nemanja Matic could be set for a sensational return to the Premier League with Fulham being the proposed destination. Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais have also been touted. It's been widely reported that Matic is dismayed with the French club's conduct after they promised to enrol his children in an international school, an assurance that could not be honoured because there is no educational system of that type in the city. As a result, the Serb is close to terminating his two-year contract at Roazhon Park. Oops.

Having locked down midfield departments for both Chelsea and Manchester United, the 35-year-old will feel right at home in the Premier League, particularly in London, where he still owns a property, apparently. He won three league titles in England, as well as an FA Cup and a League Cup, but at 35 years of age, many are adamant he's not worth signing, even on a mooted 6-month deal. We should know better. Age is nothing but a number in Silva's system and if this rumour really is a goer, his vast experience will enrich our squad and we will be better off for it.

Nicolo Tresoldi – Hannover 96

Announced by well-known German publication BILD, Fulham are said to be one of several teams that are tailing Hannover 96's Nicolo Tresoldi, an exciting striker that's turning heads in the 2.Bundesliga. The 19-year-old Germany U21 international is gradually establishing himself at Hannover and in 13 outings, he's registered 2 goals and 3 assists.

One of the presumed teams that's also watching Tresoldi's development is Inter Milan, but it is not known if the Cagliari-born teenager's willing to relocate so soon in his budding career. It'd probably be wise for Tresoldi to remain at the HDI arena for the rest of the campaign but if Die Roten aren't promoted to the German top-flight come May, I'd certainly check back in on the youngster and test his employer's resolve.

Pablo Rosario – OGC Nice

According to the Daily Mirror, the Whites are pursuing Nice's Pablo Rosario, who has two years remaining on his contract at the Ligue 1 outfit. Graduating from Ajax's famed academy, whilst also turning out for Almere City's youth ranks and first team, Rosario eventually made his mark in Dutch football at rivals PSV Eindhoven and since joining Nice in 2021, the 27-year-old's admirers have grown in numbers.

He may only have one cap for the Dutch national team – a privilege which came and went in 2018 – but the defensive midfielder is toughened to top-flight football, albeit French, and as a more than capable squad member, one that can also play at centre-back, he'd surely slot into Silva's plans... nicely.

Morgan Whittaker – Plymouth Argyle

Informants working closely with Football Insider have told that West Ham, Brentford and Fulham are in the swim for Plymouth Argyle goal getter Morgan Whittaker. Whittaker has slammed home 15 goals and has also provided 6 assists in all competitions for Argyle, making him one of the Championship's most prolific hitmen. He is on a hot streak currently, as he has scored 6 goals in his last 6 outings.

The 23-year-old was previously on loan at Home Park from fellow Championship side Swansea City, however his stay in Devon was cut short. He eventually joined Plymouth permanently last summer for a figure thought to be £1m plus add-ons, a club record, amazingly, but if he is to bid farewell to The Pilgrims just half a season after putting pen to paper, it'll surely take a bid worth ten times his signing fee, maybe even more.

Trevoh Chalobah – Chelsea

Joao Palhinha-loving football reporter Florian Plettenberg has suggested that the Whites are due to offer forgotten Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah an escape route from Stamford Bride, with a view to loan the 24-year-old for the remainder of the season. The ex-England U21 man was linked to Bayern Munich and AC Milan last summer, as well as the Whites, but interest from abroad has evidently cooled off.

Brother of former Fulham midfielder Nathaniel, of course, Chalobah has suffered numerous injury setbacks and is yet to make Mauricio Pochettino's matchday squad. As it's likely he'll make an impact at the Blues this season, a change of scenery will be appropriate is he is wanting to re-establish himself, although it's thought that if he is to jump to the nicer side of SW6, an option to make his brief stay permanent could be put in place.

Alessio Romagnoli – SS Lazio

A Premier League threesome consisting of Brighton and Hove Albion, Newcastle United and Fulham is set to thrash it out for Lazio defender Alessio Romagnoli, according to various reports originating from Italy via Football Italia. The 29-year-old was allegedly on our transfer radar during the summer transfer window, so he is evidently a central defender we're watching with intrigue.

The Italy international's contract expires in 2027, it's believed he's fully committed to matters under Sarri but a move away from Rome has not been ruled out, if potential suitors manage to convince club president Claudio Lotitio to cash-in, that is. Romagnoli has had to wade through countless injury difficulties – he was out for a few weeks this season with a calf strain – but he has become a dependable figurehead for Lazio when he's been ready for selection, nonetheless. He's always been a bit of a sicknote, to be honest, so for that reason despite his underlying ability, I'm out.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-01-17-fulham-transfer-rumour-round-up-soyuncu-matic-chalobah/

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FA Youth Cup Tie Abandoned
Fulham Under-18s' FA Youth Cup Fourth Round meeting with Swansea City was abandoned at half-time on Wednesday evening.

With temperatures of -2 degrees, the match officials deemed the second half unplayable following a pitch inspection at the break.

The Young Whites were trailing 1-0 at half-time.

The rearranged date will be confirmed in due course.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/january/17/fa-youth-cup-tie-abandoned/