Saturday Fulham Stuff - 08/06/24...

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Manchester United want to sign Fulham player who was faster than Kylian Mbappe at the World Cup
Manchester United are eyeing a surprise move for a Fulham player in the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils have still not decided whether they are going to keep Erik ten Hag as their manager or sack him and bring in a new boss.

That decision is expected to be made very soon, but irrespective of what happens, Manchester United need reinforcements in multiple areas of their pitch.

Left-back has to be one of the priorities for the next United boss.

Manchester United eye move for Fulham's Antonee Robinson and two other left-backs
That decision is expected to be made very soon, but irrespective of what happens, Manchester United need reinforcements in multiple areas of their pitch.

Left-back has to be one of the priorities for the next United boss.
Manchester United eye move for Fulham's Antonee Robinson and two other left-backs

Manchester United are now planning to sign a new left-back this summer, and they have three Premier League defenders on their shortlist.

Bournemouth's Milos Kerkez, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea, is one of them, while Wolves star Rayan Ait-Nouri is also said to be of interest to Manchester United.

The other player on their list is Fulham star Antonee Robinson, who was arguably their best player in the Premier League in the 2023/24 season.

The USMNT international missed just one game in the league last season. He picked up six assists in 37 games and really impressed with his overlapping runs.

Robinson signed a new contract at Fulham in July 2023 and he has been tied down until the summer of 2028.

That puts the Cottagers in a strong position in potential transfer negotiations, but if Manchester United really want him, they should be able to get him.

Robinson outpaced Kylian Mbappe in 2022 World Cup
One of Robinson's most impressive traits is his speed.

The 26-year-old is absolutely rapid, and when he's in full flow, it is very difficult to stop him. That's probably why Manchester United are interested in signing him.

Back in 2022, during the World Cup in Qatar, Robinson impressed everyone with his blistering pace.

He was the fourth fastest player in the group stage with a top speed of 21.99 mph, which was higher than what Kylian Mbappe managed then (Sky Sports).

Robinson and someone like Alejandro Garnacho on Manchester United's left flank could cause opponents all sorts of problems next season.



https://tbrfootball.com/manchester-united-want-to-sign-fulham-player-who-was-faster-than-kylian-mbappe-at-the-world-cup/

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Tottenham transfer boost emerges as 'agreement' revealed ahead of crucial decision
Latest Tottenham transfer news as Ange Postecoglou prepares his squad for Europe next season ahead of the summer window opening on June 14

Andreas Pereira has opened up on his future amid transfer speculation linking him with a move to Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

Recent reports from Brazil have claimed that Spurs have 'sounded out' a potential move with the player's agent. Pereira has enjoyed a positive season at Fulham having contributed towards 12 goals. His current deal at the Cottagers is set to expire in 2026.

It is claimed that the midfielder had an agreement with Marco Silva to stay at the West London club for two years. However, that time has now passed, leading to speculation over his future.

But the Brazilian has admitted he is not focused on what comes next at this stage as he prepares for this summer's Copa America with Brazil. The Selecao begin their campaign on June 25 against Costa Rica.

"It's difficult to talk about the future now, I'm completely focused on the national team. After the title, God willing, I'll think about my future at the club. I'll sit down with my agent and decide my future," said Pereira at a Brazil press conference, via UOL.

Tottenham are likely to need reinforcements in midfield this summer with Giovani Lo Celso and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg set to leave. Both players have struggled for starts under Ange Postecoglou and with their contracts coming to an end, Spurs may be tempted to cash in on both players.

 As well as midfield, attack is another area which Postecoglou will look to strengthen this summer. "Yeah, absolutely. It's no secret," he said after the club's postseason friendly against Newcastle on May 22.

"You saw the way we finished the season. We obviously lost Richy and Timo as well with injuries but we're fairly light in that area. We started last season with Manor [Solomon] and [Ivan] Perisic and we were quite healthy in that front third in terms of numbers, but as the year went on it became pretty evident that we need to bulk up.

"We're in Europe as well next year so we'll have more games and it's definitely an area of the park we'll need to strengthen."



https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/transfer-news/tottenham-transfer-boost-emerges-agreement-29307687

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PFA Community Champion Awarded To Andreas and Dale

Fulham FC Foundation are delighted to announce Andreas Pereira and Olivia Dale as the 2023/24 recipients of the PFA Community Champion award.

Both players picked up the award after supporting various community activities and initiatives throughout the campaign.

Andreas' work included visiting All Saints Primary School in Fulham to meet students and teachers, and inspiring secondary school students at a Careers In Football event at Motspur Park.

Meanwhile, Olivia returned to her former primary school Hinchley Wood and was involved in the EmpowHer Festival, which gave girls aged five and above the opportunity to play on the Craven Cottage pitch.

The pair also took part in a panel at the Cottage to discuss mental health for the Premier League Inspires programme.

Mat Doolan, Business Development and Communications Manager at Fulham FC Foundation, said: "Andreas and Olivia have gone above and beyond this season engaging with a wide range of young people we engage with at Fulham FC Foundation.

"For these young people, everyone wearing the badge of Fulham FC is a hero and a role model, but the way Andreas and Olivia have taken the time to understand them as individuals and learn about the Foundation programmes they are involved in is outstanding. They truly are champions, both on the pitch and in the community!"

Maheta Molango, CEO of the Professional Footballers' Association, said: "The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community.

"The award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest.

"We would like to offer our congratulations to this season's recipients of the 2023/24 PFA Community Champion award."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/05/pfa-community-champion-awarded-/

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Chelsea CONFIRM first signing of the Enzo Maresca era as Tosin Adarabioyo completes move on a free from Fulham after Man United tried to hijack deal

    Defender Adarabioyo, 26, came through the Manchester City academy
    Man United and Newcastle had also been interested in the 6ft 5in centre back

Chelsea have completed their first signing of the Enzo Maresca era by securing Tosin Adarabioyo on a free from Fulham.

The 6ft 5in centre back has penned a four-year contract with the Blues, who see his ability on the ball and prowess at set-pieces as a key asset ahead of the next season.

The 26-year-old came through the Manchester City academy and will now work with Maresca, Pep Guardiola's former assistant who wants to implement a possession-based style of play.

'Chelsea is a huge club and this is a full-circle moment for me. I was born three miles away from Stamford Bridge and made my professional debut there,' said Adarabioyo.

'I'm very excited and looking forward to helping push the club in the direction we want to go.'

Adarabioyo completed his medical with Chelsea earlier this week as they beat Newcastle and Manchester United to his signing.

A gap in Chelsea's squad opened up when Thiago Silva left at the end of the last season. It remains to be seen what this signing will mean for Trevoh Chalobah, the homegrown talent who has been linked with a move away this summer.

Adarabioyo completed his medical with Chelsea earlier this week as they beat Newcastle and Manchester United to his signing.

A gap in Chelsea's squad opened up when Thiago Silva left at the end of the last season. It remains to be seen what this signing will mean for Trevoh Chalobah, the homegrown talent who has been linked with a move away this summer.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13505109/Chelsea-confirm-Tosin-Adarabioyo-signing-Enzo-Maresca.html

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Bundesliga Giants Consider Fulham Star As Possible Signing
Bayern Munich have rekindled their interest in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha ahead of the summer transfer window.

Palhinha was on the verge of joining Bayern Munich last summer before the transfer fell through in the final hours of the window due to Fulham's failure to sign a replacement.

The Portuguese signed a new contract at Fulham last year and remained an important part of Marco Silva's side.

Bayern Munich's interest in the midfielder went cold and they did not try to sign him in the winter transfer window.

However, according to German daily Bild (via Fussball Transfers), Palhinha is again back on Bayern Munich's agenda this summer.

The German giants are in the market to bring in a defensive midfielder in the upcoming transfer window.

Palhinha and Everton's Amadou Onana are two players the German giants are considering signing this summer.

Fulham are unlikely to lower their financial demands for the midfielder if Bayern Munich make an approach again in the coming weeks and months.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/06/07/bundesliga-giants-consider-fulham-star-as-possible-signing/647518/

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Crystal Palace now want to sign a player Tottenham secured for £25m but Fulham also interested- report
Tottenham signed Ryan Sessegnon for £25million in 2019 but this summer his contract was not renewed.

According to a report in South London Press, Crystal Palace have moved to sign newly released Tottenham star Ryan Sessegnon. The 24-year-old brought an injury-plagued spell in north London to an end after both player and the club agreed it was best to go their separate ways this summer.

Palace are looking at going places after winning six of their last seven league games to jump from 14th on the league table to 10, impressively finishing ahead of nemesis Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Eagles are looking at generating healthy competition at their left-back spot with England international Tyrick Mitchell the club's first choice in that spot, but Sessegnon who Spurs paid an impressive £25million to sign in 2019 can play there as well as a left-sided midfielder or even a left-sided winger.

He was regarded as one of the best youngsters in English football when he helped Fulham win the Championship and gain promotion to the Premier League before earning his big-money move to Spurs in 2019.

Before turning 19, Sessegnon had played 120 games but that eventually caught up with him. He's had two hamstring injuries requiring him to take surgery, which has kept him out for large parts of his time at the club.

Last season, he only managed seven minutes as injury struck again to devastating effects.

LondonWorld has been told Fulham are also looking at bringing the 24-year-old to Craven Cottagers especially now that he's a free agent and his versatility to fill in several important roles.

The club are aware that he's played little football since he moved to Tottenham but are also aware that he's taken two important steps to correct the injury and could be a cheap option to strengthen their squad.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/crystal-palace/crystal-palace-now-want-to-sign-a-player-tottenham-secured-for-ps25m-but-fulham-also-interested-4657183

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Former Wolves, Liverpool, Fulham and Rangers star made free agent at 26
A Championship club have announced the departure of a former Wolves player.

Former Wolves attacker Sheyi Ojo will be on the hunt for a new club this summer after he was told he wouldn't be retained by his current club.

Cardiff City have published their retained list and Ojo is among the list of 12 players who are leaving South Wales this summer. Ojo had been on the books of the Bluebirds for the last two seasons but had spent this season out on loan in Belgium with KV Kortrijk.

The 26-year-old made 40 appearances in his second spell at the Cardiff City Stadium and registered a goal and an assist. During his time out in Belgium this term he appeared 32 times but was again limited to a goal and an assist apiece.

In a message to Ojo and the other 11 players leaving, the club said: "We'd like to thank all of the leaving players for their efforts and wish them all the very best for the future."

Ojo played for Wolves on loan in the first half of the 2015/16 season. He made a total of 19 appearances after being signed by Kenny Jackett and registered four assists and three goals. His spell was cut short and he returned to Liverpool to play eight times under Jurgen Klopp.

He would later go on to have loans at Fulham, Reims, Rangers, Cardiff and Millwall before leaving Liverpool in June 2022.



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/wolves/sheyi-ojo-cardiff-city-wolves-liverpool-fulham-rangers-kortrijk-4657417

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King named Fulham's scholar of the year
Fulham have named teenage starlet Josh King as their scholar of the year, the club have confirmed this morning.

The talented midfielder was already starring for Fulham's under 18s before stepping into the under-21 side, scoring on his first appearance at that level in a 4-0 Premier League Cup victory over Leicester City. King's encouraging performances under Hayden Mullins led to the youngster putting pen to paper on a professional contract in January and then being named as a substitute by Marco Silva in Fulham's league games at Burnley AFC Bournemouth the following month.

King, who was presented with his award during the Premier League Youth Development Conference, told the club's official website:

"I'm buzzing to win the award. It was a great season and I'm grateful to the people who chose me for the award. It was a successful and enjoyable season for me personally. The U18s programme with Ali [Melloul] and Jos [Andrew Joslin] really helped me improve and then I managed to quite smoothly progress into U21s football. I've managed to get my head



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/king-named-fulhams-scholar-of-the-year/

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Pereira ponders Fulham future
Reports from Brazil claim that Fulham midfielder Andreas Pereira is entertaining interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United and Aston Villa – but discussions with Kia Joorabchian will take place after this summer's Copa America.

Brazilian outlets UOL and Globo Esporte claim that the attacking midfielder promised Marco Silva that he would stay with the Whites for two seasons – with the Whites rejecting repeated offers from Aletico Madrid and Saudi Pro League side Al-Etifaq. Globo Esporte says that Pereira and Fulham are ready to 'listen to the market' and that the prospect of the 28 year-old spending another campaign at Craven Cottage is 'unlikely'.

Pereira's priority is to play in the Champions' League, which would make Villa the favourites should any race materialise, but Fulham will demand a significant fee as he has two years remaining on his current contract.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/pereira-ponders-fulham-future/

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Chelsea confirm Tosin transfer
Chelsea have confirmed that Fulham centre back Tosin Adarabioyo will join them on a free transfer in July.

The 26 year-old, who played 129 games for the Whites in four years at Craven Cottage, becomes Enzo Maresca's first signing and has put pen to paper on a four-year contract.

He told Chelsea's official website:

"Chelsea is a huge club and this is a full-circle moment for me. I was born three miles away from Stamford Bridge and made my professional debut there. I'm very excited and looking forward to helping push the club in the direction we want to go."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/chelsea-confirm-tosin-transfer/

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Player ratings: 2023/24 season

With a comfortable mid-table finish including league wins against Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United, as well as a run to the League Cup semi-finals, it was another brilliant season under Marco Silva in which a number of individuals thrived, some more than others. It's time to have the final say on the 2023/24 season.

Bernd Leno

Leno played every single minute of the Premier League season, plus an additional three appearances in the League Cup, showing his value and level of performance over an extended period for the club. Granted, some of his performances this season weren't quite as extraordinary as in the 22/23 season, but to have the third most clean sheets in the Premier League, behind only Raya of Arsenal and England's number one Jordan Pickford, shows what the man is capable of.

We've had a couple of really decent one-season wonder keepers recently in Rico and Areola, but Leno is established now as one of Fulham's true great keepers of the modern era and will continue to build that reputation for as long as Fulham maintain their Premier League status. 7.5/10

Bernd Leno

Leno played every single minute of the Premier League season, plus an additional three appearances in the League Cup, showing his value and level of performance over an extended period for the club. Granted, some of his performances this season weren't quite as extraordinary as in the 22/23 season, but to have the third most clean sheets in the Premier League, behind only Raya of Arsenal and England's number one Jordan Pickford, shows what the man is capable of.

We've had a couple of really decent one-season wonder keepers recently in Rico and Areola, but Leno is established now as one of Fulham's true great keepers of the modern era and will continue to build that reputation for as long as Fulham maintain their Premier League status. 7.5/10

Kenny Tete

To only feature 14 times in the Premier League this season must go down as a real disappointment for the Dutch international. His fitness issues persisted at the start of the season and once Castagne took that right-back spot from him, he never really got back in the side. Similar things happened in the second half of the title-winning season as Tete struggled to win his place back from Neco Williams. Without injuries, we truly could have had one of the league's best right-backs over the last half a decade, and hopefully extending his contract is a sign that the management team still see his value to the side. But for this year, despite some promising performances, the lack of game time won't have been what Tete wanted. 6/10

Tosin

Not quite sure which tone to write this in considering the news that has just come out that Tosin is leaving for that lot down the road. Granted, he was probably Bassey's best partner across his 18 Premier League starts, and his ability to play with the ball at his feet had continued to improve under Silva on a season by season basis. The winning penalty at Goodison should have stayed as a proud memory when he left this summer, but with the news that it's Chelsea he's joining, anything he has achieved will be forgotten in the eyes of many. A decent season, but he won't be well received when he returns to the Cottage wearing blue in the coming months. 6.5/10

Calvin Bassey

Considering all four of Fulham's senior centre-backs made at least 16 Premier League starts this season, for Bassey, the new signing, to settle in seamlessly and play the most of them all at such a high level is a huge credit to him. An early season red card at the Emirates and some mistakes playing out of position at Tottenham could've led to a bumpy start to his Fulham career, but he's only gone from strength to strength since, proving to be the dream Tim Ream successor on the left side of Fulham's centre-back pairing. Quite feasibly, that could be Bassey's position for many seasons if he continues to hit the heights of his 23/24 season. 8.5/10

Issa Diop

A really similar season to his first with the club in the way that he hasn't quite managed to form a partnership with another centre-back and cement himself in the side. It feels like the majority of Diop's showings end up with 89 solid minutes marred by a singular rash mistake. There's a good defender in there, but perhaps just slightly too error prone to become a key cog in Silva's defence. His goal in the second leg of the League Cup semi-final was a rare seasonal highlight and got us close to taking Liverpool to extra time. It could be a big summer ahead for Diop if he wants to convince the manager that he should be Bassey's long term defensive partner after Tosin's departure. 6.5/10

Tim Ream

Considering how little Ream played towards the back end of the season, it's strange to think that in a season where he seemed to be being phased out of the side, he still managed 18 Premier League appearances and remains a key part of Marco Silva's leadership team in the dressing room, hence Captain America was rewarded with another year on his contract. Ream remained solid when called upon and even notched a rare goal at the Etihad Stadium, admittedly in a heavy defeat. If this was to be his last season in a Fulham shirt before a move to the MLS, he will leave Fulham a modern day icon with his head held high. 6.5/10

Antonee Robinson

Bias aside, I don't think there was a better left-back in Premier League this season than Jedi. Robinson's consistently high level of performance impressed fans across the country as he found another level this year, at both ends of the pitch. His six assists was only matched or bettered by a handful of Premier League defenders, owing to the improvements in his crossing ability this year. Defensively, he has been brilliant too, continuing to be one of the league's best aggressors, constantly defending on the front foot. His 80 interceptions was the highest of any Premier League player in 23/24.

Jedi has almost become as important as the likes of Palhinha in Silva's system and tying him down to a new long-term contract early in 2024 could be the best business Fulham have done or will do all year. What a season he has had. 9/10 – player of the season

Antonee Robinson

Bias aside, I don't think there was a better left-back in Premier League this season than Jedi. Robinson's consistently high level of performance impressed fans across the country as he found another level this year, at both ends of the pitch. His six assists was only matched or bettered by a handful of Premier League defenders, owing to the improvements in his crossing ability this year. Defensively, he has been brilliant too, continuing to be one of the league's best aggressors, constantly defending on the front foot. His 80 interceptions was the highest of any Premier League player in 23/24.

Jedi has almost become as important as the likes of Palhinha in Silva's system and tying him down to a new long-term contract early in 2024 could be the best business Fulham have done or will do all year. What a season he has had. 9/10 – player of the season

Harrison Reed

Despite featuring in 27 Premier League games this term, I think Reedy will probably be slightly disappointed with his 15 starts in the league considering his importance to Fulham over the last half a decade. And granted, there's been games this season where Fulham have been inconsistent or just straight up haven't turned up, and in those games it often felt like Reed's tenacity was missing in midfield. Even when playing inconsistently, he still never drops a poor performance or lets the side down. Knowing what role he will play going forward is difficult to judge but he is a unique type of midfielder that I thin you're better off having than not having, and hopefully he still has a lot to offer for Fulham going forward. 6.5/10

Sasa Lukic

After pre-season, it genuinely seemed like Lukic may have been a mainstay in the Fulham side this year, but an inconsistent start to the season put paid to that. Granted, in the run in, Lukic forced his way in towards the end of the year and kept his spot alongside Palhinha for a good run of games. 24 appearances in the league, including 13 starts, show Lukic to be a reliable squad player, and yet it feels like the fans and management alike aren't quite sure of what his role is in this side. Next season feels like it'll go one of two ways. Either the Serb cements his spot in Fulham's midfield and truly adapts to Premier League football, or he continues to struggle to find a place in the side and may be looking elsewhere for regular football come 2025. A big season ahead for Lukic you would think. 6.5/10

Tom Cairney

In Pep Guardiola's Man City squad, he splits his group into 'starters' and 'finishers'. Silva certainly continues to see our club captain as his man finisher, with nearly 60% of his 34 Premier League appearances coming off the bench this season. The fact that TC featured in all but four league fixtures shows he is still of immense value to Silva, especially in what he offers. With fresh legs, Cairney's ability to create chances in games that are deadlocked, or to keep the ball in our possession to see out a victory, is incomparable to anyone else in this Fulham squad. With Ream's potential departure looking imminent, TC's longevity and standing within the club has never been so important. 7/10

Andreas Pereira

Anyone who read my ratings articles throughout the first two thirds of the season will know my constant frustrations with the Brazilian. His numbers regarding creativity in open play feel so poor, and are often masked by the statistics he possesses due to his set piece responsibilities. It always feels like he should create more from the positions he plays in and it's rare he receives criticism due to his admittedly valuable pressing abilities each week, which continue to help him gain Silva's trust. Despite the importance Silva clearly places on him, if suspected interest does arrive this window and the club received a substantial bid for Andreas, you would imagine that Fulham would manage to spend said funds on a number 10 who contributes more in terms of goal contributions. 6.5/10

Alex Iwobi

A really promising first Fulham season for Iwobi, who had some doubters coming into this season after signing for a hefty fee from Everton. His versatility and contributions in the final third plus his subtle leadership abilities on the field make him an obvious successor to the role Bobby De Cordova-Reid has played over recent seasons. His friendship with Bassey has Fulham fans loving the pair and his final minute winning goal at Old Trafford will be remembered for decades to come. His dribbling and creative ability on the ball is pretty much as good as anyone at the club and those that doubted the fee paid for him last summer won't have such doubts now. His role will only become greater next season. 7.5/10

Bobby De Cordova-Reid

While a lot of fans may look to Bobby's 'bit part' role at the club when considering the importance of his potential departure or new contract this summer, he would probably leave a bigger gap than the fans expect. He is one of Silva's 'captains', so for him and Ream to leave in one summer would put a dent in that group. BDR has consistently contributed to goals over his five seasons here and his finishing ability is right up there as the best at the club. His versatility is so well spoken of and finding a player who will gladly play anywhere at a high level is not easy. Not to mention that he only missed out on featuring in five league games in 23/24. He may not grab the headlines too often, but Bobby has proven this year that he is still subtly a very important cog in Marco's machine. 6.5/10

Harry Wilson

It's incredible that most of the fanbase can't quite pin down the Welsh wizard's role in the squad despite him coming off a Premier League season where he's contributed the joint most goals of any Fulham player in the league. To do that from more substitute appearances than starting appearances is particularly impressive and yet there are so many games in which he seems complete ineffective. Ultimately, that level of contribution in the final third points to a player who should start more often to allow for more goal scoring and goal creating opportunities for those around him, but whether that happens or not in 24/25 is yet to be seen. 7/10

Adama Traore

While Fulham fans were left agonising over what could have been in the final moments at the Emirates when Adama missed an opportunity to steal all three points, it ultimately left fans excited at what was to come for the rest of the year. To then see his only start come on the final day of the season leaves us thinking not only what could have been, but also what will be? Once returning from his injury issues, Silva struggled to find Traore's role in the squad.

Five goal contributions from the game time Traore had is quite impressive, the run at Old Trafford to set up Iwobi showed that he has the ability to show composure and skill at the end of a blistering run, and the goal on the final day at Luton shows the end product is there. Adama could be so crucial going forward if Silva manages to get the best from him on a more frequent basis. Alas, due to injuries and game time, this first season at the club has been a frustrating one. 6/10

Willian

The Brazilian's impact this season was certainly less than in his first year with the club, which has led to deeper questions as to whether a third year in black and white is the correct outcome for all parties. However, he still remains one of the most skilful and intelligent players to grace Craven Cottage this century. His ability to manipulate space and create opportunities for himself and his teammates is outstanding even at 35 years old. The relationship he has with Robinson down the left hand side has been one of the key attacking avenues for the team, either when William himself cuts inside and shoots, or when Robinson provides a trademark overlapping run which has led to the American's rise in assists this season. His presence would be missed if he were to leave this summer. 7/10

Raul Jimenez

A real hit-and-miss debut season for the Mexican. His early season form and lack of goal-scoring touch continued his drought in the Premier League and felt like a particularly large issue considering the departure of Mitrovic and the years it had been since Raul had been a superb top division number nine. His mid-season form improved drastically and we started to see signs of the striker that hit his top level at Molineux. However, the suspension that came from the loss to Newcastle and the struggles with fitness allowed a certain Brazilian to take his spot in the side and there's a reason that Raul didn't start again until the final day – where he scored a brace. As I say, completely hit and miss. 6.5/10

Rodrigo Muniz

As breakthrough seasons go, Muniz is one of the like we have rarely witnessed before at Craven Cottage. Rarely used in the opening six months of the season, Muniz was simply an outcast who looked destined for more loans in the future. Then came Burnley away, and the start of the most ridiculous goalscoring run that left Muniz finishing the season with nine Premier League goals. More than that, his ability to hold the ball up with his back to goal and link play around him further fills the void Mitrovic had in this side beyond just the goalscoring. The £7m fee paid for the newest Brazilian superstar in English football now looks a bargain and at still just 23 years old, Muniz has so much room to grow – hopefully at Fulham. 8.5/10

Carlos Vinicius, Fode Ballo-Toure, Aleksandar Mitrovic, Armando Broja, Luke Harris, Marek Rodak, Luc De Fougerolles, Tyrese Francois and Devan Tanton all also featured in competitive fixtures this season, but did not feature enough to be assessed on a seasonal basis.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-06-07-player-ratings-2023-24-season/

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Fulham enter Crysencio Summerville chase
Fulham are reportedly keen on signing Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville during the summer transfer window.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Fulham have now joined Liverpool and Chelsea in the race to sign Crysencio Summerville. The 22-year-old Dutchman had an impressive season in the EFL Championship with Leeds United, and it is no surprise that top clubs are keen on him.

The 22-year-old had 31 goal contributions for Leeds United this past season. Summerville could prove to be a quality addition for Fulham and Liverpool if they can get the deal done. The youngster is also a target for Chelsea. The Blues are keen on signing a wide attacker and have identified the Leeds United talisman as a viable target.

Fulham need more quality in the attack, and the 22-year-old would certainly improve them. They have an impressive squad at their disposal, but they were lacking in the attack last season. Signing a goalscoring winger and reliable finisher should be their top priority heading into the summer transfer window.

Summerville will add goals and creativity from the wide areas and will certainly add more cutting edge to the Fulham attack. It will be interesting to see if the West London club can fend off the competition from Liverpool and local rivals Chelsea to get the deal done.

Liverpool need to sign a quality winger
Liverpool need more quantity in the wide areas as well. Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz are the only reliable options on the flanks. Liverpool could use more quality in that department, and the Dutchman would be a superb addition. He could be the ideal long term replacement for Mohamed Salah as well. The Egyptian will be out of contract in 2025 Liverpool will need to replace him adequately.

The 22-year-old attacker will feel that he has proven himself in the second division of English football, and he will look to play for the big clubs now. The opportunity to join Liverpool will be hard to turn down. The Reds are one of the biggest clubs in the country, and they are used to compete for major trophies.

The Dutchman will certainly want to compete at that level. It will be interesting to see Fulham can convince him to move to London instead. Leeds failed to secure promotion to the Premier League, and a move to Chelsea and even Fulham will be a step up for the player as well. It remains to be seen where he ends up eventually.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/06/07/fulham-enter-crysencio-summerville-chase/

[WhiteJC]

King Wins Scholar of the Year

The Club is pleased to announce that Josh King has been selected as our 2023/24 Scholar of the Year.

It's been a fantastic year on the pitch for Josh, who began the season with the Under-18s before quickly making the step up to Under-21s football, making 10 appearances for Hayden Mullins' side in PL2.

Josh scored on his U21s debut back in October in a 4-0 win against Leicester City in the Premier League Cup; a competition that our Young Whites went on to win. He signed his first professional contract in January and was on the bench for the First Team in Premier League fixtures against Burnley and AFC Bournemouth a month later.

Off the field, Josh has worked just as hard as he has on it. His dedication and tenacity has seen him enjoy success in his three A-levels; French, Maths and Psychology. Studying three A-levels is impressive in itself, but when you consider the intensity of Josh's football commitments, his achievements are even more applaudable.

Josh's dedication to the entire scholarship programme means he also contributes hugely to the ethos and culture of the PDP. He has demonstrated his maturity and leadership skills by being active in supporting his peers.

After winning the award, which was presented to him at the Premier League Youth Development Conference, Josh said: "I'm buzzing to win the award. It was a great season and I'm grateful to the people who chose me for the award.

"It was a successful and enjoyable season for me personally. The U18s programme with Ali (Melloul) and Jos (Andrew Joslin) really helped me improve and then I managed to quite smoothly progress into U21s football.

"I've managed to get my head down and I'm always looking to keep my standards high on the pitch and in education as well."

Congratulations, Josh!



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/07/king-wins-scholar-of-the-year/

[WhiteJC]

From Brazil: Latest on West Ham battling Fulham for transfer, chaos at club, move imminent
With Nottingham Forest and West Ham United in a fierce battle for the signing of Carlos Miguel from Corinthians, the Brazilian media is sharing several updates on the situation.

The latest story comes from Globo Esporte, who reports that the goalkeeper trained normally today, despite the negotiations.

It's said that the offers from both Nottingham Forest and West Ham are 'on the table', with the clubs willing to pay his €4m release clause. It's said 'bureaucratic issues' should be finalised in the coming days, regardless of which club wins that battle.

Carlos Miguel is then set to leave Corinthians 'immediately', with just some days to plan his move to England. The Reds reportedly made an approach back in January, with the Hammers' interest showing up now.

There's a specific reason why Nottingham Forest and West Ham are interested in signing him this summer. That's because he used to have a €50m release clause at the club, which has now dropped to €4m. The situation is explained by former club president Duilio Monteiro Alves, in quotes brought by Goal Brasil.

"In January 2023, the contract was renewed like this: from January 2024, the fine would drop to €4m. If you look it up, very few goalkeepers are sold for that price in Brazil, even more so reserves. Carlos Miguel had only played two games for Corinthians at the time. Cássio was in great shape.

"He was a player who arrived for free to be the fourth goalkeeper. His agent demanded the contract in this way when we extended it in January 2023, with a reduction in the clause. The player and his manager argued for this clause: if he didn't do well during this period to the point of not having his contract valued and renewed, we don't want the player to be stuck as a back-up goalkeeper with an unpayable clause."

The big problem there is that with club legend Cássio recently making many mistakes, Carlos Miguel had a chance to become their starter, and showed his ability.

Now Cassio ended up leaving the club, and with Carlos Miguel having such a low release clause, they'll end up without either.

Corinthians are entering a deep crisis, as their major sponsor today announced they're rescinding their contract with the club. That's a reason why news about them won't stop popping out in the Brazilian media in the past few hours, and Nottingham Forest and West Ham are now contributing to that chaos.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/brazil-latest-west-ham-battling-fulham-transfer-chaos-club-move-imminent/

[WhiteJC]

Bayern Munich are back for Joao Palhinha – Big story in Germany, €40-45m to Fulham is the plan
Bayern Munich are pushing once again to sign Joao Palhinha from Fulham after their failed bid for him last summer.

That's according to journalists Patrick Berger and Florian Plettenberg, who both say he's a top target for the German giants again.

Palhinha is now a long-term target for Bayern after they failed to get him last summer on deadline day when Fulham pulled the plug on an agreed deal after failing to find a replacement in the last hours of the window.

The Germans have been linked ever since and at one point appeared to have moved on but are now back on the scene according to the two journalists.

Berger reports that Bayern are pushing again to sign the midfielder from Fulham, making him a number one target and opening talks with Fulham after reaching a verbal agreement with the Portugal international.

He states that a deal worth €40-45m could be on the cards, a figure backed up by Plettenberg, who reports that a contract until 2028 is also on the table.

He also insists that Palhinha is currently Bayern's top target for the summer and that there is already a verbal agreement between the Fulham man and those in charge in Bavaria.

According to his information that is because the basis of the deal was already negotiated last summer and thus used again and Palhinha is keen on the move, so matters did not take long.

It's now up to Fulham and Bayern to reach an agreement, with the saga revived and seemingly set to go on again this summer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-make-fulham-star-top-priority-talks-underway-personal-terms-already-agreed/

[WhiteJC]

Bayern back in for Palhinha
Bayern Munich have reopened negotiations with Fulham in a bid to sign Joao Palhinha this summer, according to reports from Germany.

Florian Plettenberg and Patrick Berger claim that the German giants have made the Portuguese midfielder their top transfer target and believe that a deal should be easy to strike as they agreed terms with the 28 year-old before his move to Munich fell through last September. Palhinha, who was the Premier League's most successful tackler for a second season in succession, has been a key part of Marco Silva's side since signing for Fulham from Sporting Lisbon in 2022 – and signed a new contract two weeks later.

According to Sky Germany, Bayern are ready to offer around £38.25m – a significant drop on the £45m fee they agreed to pay at the end of last summer's transfer window – and they are confident they can get their man.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/bayern-back-in-for-palhinha/

[WhiteJC]

Bayern 'pushing' to sign 'top target' from Fulham in £38m transfer after reaching 'verbal agreement'
Bayern Munich are set to reignite their interest in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha with talks between the two clubs underway, according to reports.

Palhinha joined Fulham from Sporting for around £18million in 2022 after being linked with several top clubs including Manchester United.

He has been a revelation in Marco Silva's midfield, leading the Premier League for the most tackles made in consecutive seasons.

This has attracted interest from Arsenal and Liverpool, while Bayern have been strongly linked with the Portuguese international.

The German giants came close to landing Palhinha last summer but a deal fell through after Fulham failed to secure a replacement.

The player did not kick up a fuss after his move to the Allianz Arena fell through, performing superbly in the Cottagers' midfield in 2023/24.

It was unclear whether or not Bayern would pursue Palhinha after missing out last summer but reports from Germany suggest they are very keen on signing the 28-year-old.

Arsenal, City or Liverpool could fund £38m Bayern signing of Fulham man
According to German football expert Florian Plettenberg, the Fulham star is Bayern's 'top transfer target for defensive midfield' and the club already has a 'verbal agreement in principle' with the player.

This was simple after 'all the essential contract details were negotiated last summer' and Palhinha remains 'keen' on joining the Bundesliga juggernauts.

Talks are underway between the two clubs, with Bayern 'ready to spend between €40-45million' (£34-38million).

Plettenberg wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter:

    'Joao Palhinha is currently FC Bayern's top transfer target for the defensive midfield! There is already a verbal agreement in principle between Bayern and the 28 y/o. Also, because all the essential contract details were already negotiated last summer! Palhinha, keen to join Bayern! Talks with Fulham are already underway. Bayern, ready to spend between €40-45m transfer fee. Contract valid until 2028.'

Bayern may have to sell before they buy though, with Plettenberg adding in a later X post that they are willing to listen to offers for six players.

One of the names in question is Joshua Kimmich, who can play as a right-back and defensive midfielder.

Kimmich has been strongly linked with Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool in recent months and would be a spectacular signing for any of the Premier League trio.

Also on the list are Manchester United-linked Matthijs de Ligt, Leon Goretzka, Kingsley Coman, former Arsenal winger Serge Gnabry, and full-back Noussair Mazraoui.

Plettenberg claims that Bayern have 'prepared numerous potential transfers' but know 'sales are urgently needed'.

This could put Arsenal, Liverpool and City on red alert with Kimmich reportedly on the market.

It is added that 'Bayern have not yet received any concrete offers' for any of the six players.



https://www.football365.com/news/palhinha-to-bayern-pushing-fulham-verbal-agreement-arsenal-liverpool-kimmich

[WhiteJC]

Premier League clubs vote to keep VAR
The Premier League will keep VAR next season after a motion tabled by Wolverhampton Wanderers was overwhelmingly rejected at the league's AGM this afternoon.

Wolves' attempt to scrap VAR 'for the benefit of the game' was defeated with the clubs voting 19-1 to keep the system, although the league have approved a number of 'improvements'. These include the implementation of semi-automated offsides in October, increased training for match officials, an in-stadium announcement of the reasons behind the overturning of a decision after a VAR intervention and 'an enhanced offering of big-screen replays'.

The Premier League said in a statement:

'While VAR produces more accurate decision-making, it was agreed that improvements should be made for the benefit of the game and supporters. As part of thorough discussions at the annual general meeting, it was agreed that PGMOL, the Premier League and clubs all have important roles to play in improving the system and its reputation.'

Wolves expressed their disappointment in their own statement:

'While we are disappointed with the outcome of the vote on the future of VAR at today's Annual General Meeting, we acknowledge and accept the decision made by our fellow Premier League clubs and we are reassured that the Premier League is taking the concerns of clubs and supporters seriously.

We welcome the commitment to improve VAR, particularly in areas that address delays, consistency and fan experience. While we still believe that Premier League football would be superior without VAR, we think that these improvements are crucial for the integrity of the game and for enhancing the overall matchday experience for our supporters.

"Wolves remain committed to working closely with the Premier League and PGMOL to ensure that VAR continues to evolve and better serve the interests of football. We appreciate the efforts being made to address the issues that have been highlighted and look forward to seeing these positive changes implemented.'



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/premier-league-clubs-vote-to-keep-var/

[WhiteJC]

Premier League agree to trial spending caps
The Premier League clubs have agreed to trial two new financial measures during the 2024/2025 season.

The clubs voted to trial squad cost rules, which will prevent sides spending more than 85% of their revenues on their playing squads, and the top-to-bottom anchoring model that based on the earnings of the side who finish in 20th place. The league had wanted to implement a new financial regime from this summer, but representations from the Professional Footballers' Association expressing concerns over a lack of consultation, have led to these changes being trialled for a year while the existing profit and sustainability rules remain in place. A vote on whether to adopt squad cost rules and top-to-bottom anchoring permanently will be taken next summer.

Another motion, which would have increased the amount of spending headroom available under the current profit and sustainability regulations, did not gain enough support to be voted through.

A Premier League statement said:

'The overall system aims to improve and preserve clubs' financial sustainability and the competitive balance of the Premier League, promote aspiration of clubs, facilitate a workable alignment with other relevant competitions and support clubs' competitiveness in UEFA club competitions, while providing certainty and clarity for clubs, fans and stakeholders.'



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/premier-league-agree-to-trial-spending-caps/

[filham]

Tosin to the Bidge, that hurts.
I was always annoyed by the fact that we were going to lose a top player like Tosin without any financial compensation but to learn that he has moved to Chelsea is just rubbing salt into our wounds.