Sunday Fulham Stuff - 30/06/24...

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Results

Saturday 29/06
Switzerland	2-0	Italy
Germany	2-0	Denmark

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Bayern Munich is still confident of finally landing João Palhinha from Fulham FC
When is it gonna end, Robbie?

Reports from Sport Bild duo Tobi Altschäffl and Christian Falk (as captured by Twitter account @iMiaSanMia), Bayern Munich are optimistic that they will finally get a deal over the line for Fulham FC destroyer João Palhinha:

    Bayern are very optimistic regarding João Palhinha and believe the move will go through. The last talks today were positive and it's looking good.

After the move in the summer last year collapsed, the Bavarians have not given up on the Portuguese midfielder. It's like the Harry Kane saga: the deal is close to being sealed but a few things prevent it from completion. In fact, the player and his agent are willing to forego some cash just to get the move to Germany, thus displaying Palhinha's intent to play for Bayern.

In the even that the transfer collapses (again), the Rekordmeister have Everton and Belgium midfielder Amadou Onana shortlisted as number two.



https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2024/6/29/24187919/bayern-munich-is-still-confident-of-finally-landing-joao-palhinha-from-fulham-everton-amadou-onana

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Copa América: Competitive Debut For Andreas

Andreas Pereira made his competitive debut for Brazil in their 4-1 win over Paraguay on Friday night.

Having drawn their opening Copa América match, the Samba Boys turned on the style in Las Vegas, racing into a 3-0 half-time lead courtesy of Vinicius Junior's brace either side of a Savio tap-in.

Paraguay pulled one back after the break through Omar Alderete's thunderbolt, but Lucas Paqueta's penalty restored the three goal lead, making up for sending an earlier spot kick wide while the game was goalless.

Andreas replaced the West Ham midfielder in the 79th minute as Brazil comfortably saw out the game, aided by a straight red card shown to Paraguay's Andres Cubas for kicking out at Douglas Luiz.

Brazil next take on Colombia in California on Tuesday, with the winner topping Group D.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/29/copa-america-competitive-debut-for-andreas/

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Former Huddersfield Town, Millwall and Fulham man recruited by League One club
Former Huddersfield Town defender Scott Malone is on course to face the Terriers this season after joining Crawley Town.

The 33-year-old spent the 2017/18 season in West Yorkshire, making 28 appearances in all competitions in what proved to be a memorable Premier League season for the Terriers.

Malone, however, dropped back into the Championship with a move to Derby County after just a year at the John Smith's Stadium. He was recently put up for sale by Gillingham and has not taken long to secure a switch.

The veteran has sealed a move to Crawley, penning terms at Broadfield Stadium following the club's promotion via the League Two play-offs. He has admitted to having previously wanted to play for the Red Devils due to his family connection to the area.

After putting pen to paper, Malone said: "I am really excited for the opportunity to play for Crawley, and I am delighted to be here. I have said for a few years now that I have wanted to play for this club.

"I married into the area ten years ago as my wife is in Broadfield, so it has always been a dream of mine. I am also happy to have got the deal done so early. The lads are back in early next week, so I am excited to get back in and meet everyone."

He has signed a one-year deal with the club, who are led by former Swindon Town boss Scott Lindsey.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/former-huddersfield-town-millwall-and-fulham-man-recruited-by-league-one-club-4684441

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Club set to make final attempt to sign Fulham player – Won't add an extra penny
Bayern Munich are reportedly making a final offer for Fulham star João Palhinha.

According to Sky Deutschland, the German side are going 'all in' by placing a bid worth around €45m.

Journalist Florian Plettenberg claims that's Bayern's last attempt to land the Fulham player, as they have no plans to add any more money.

The report claims that Palhinha, who already has an agreement with the Bundesliga giants, is 'optimistic' about a deal, while the clubs are 'positively' speaking to each other.

It's also said that all parties believe in an agreement, so it seems like he could see a happy ending soon.

Now despite all the optimism shown by Plettenberg, it's also added that Fulham may be working on something by reaching out to Palhinha. That sounds like an offer to renew his contract once again.

The journalist still believes the midfielder will be on his way to Bayern Munich, though, who have a four-year contract waiting for him, and are ready to put the saga to an end.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-set-make-final-attempt-sign-fulham-player-wont-add-extra-penny/

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Update: Fulham's João Palhinha talks transfer rumors as Bayern Munich launch "final" €45m
It's happening. No it's not. Yes it is.

Update (12:45PM EDT): Palhinha speaks
João Palhinha is currently at the EUROs, but the Portuguese star addressed the Bayern Munich transfer speculation around him ahead of Portugal's Round of 16 match vs. Slovenia.

"Right now I'm focused on the national team, on making history for my country," Palhinha said in comments captured by @iMiaSanMia. "Regarding my future, what I can say is that both clubs [Fulham and Bayern] know where I want to be in a month's time. What has to happen will happen."

Bayern Munich's biggest move of the summer transfer window looks set to occur in central midfield. The futures of every current Bayern midfielder hangs in the balance as Vincent Kompany is set to take over as head coach.

But the future could begin with a look to the past as Bayern revisits the deadline day deal that collapsed in the last hour last year — Fulham defensive midfielder João Palhinha.

The Portuguese international, who is currently starring at the EUROs and will turn 29 in July, signed a contract extension with Fulham that has only made him more difficult for Bayern to obtain. But the Bavarians have reportedly issue an ultimatum to the Premier League club, according to Sky Sport journalist Florian Plettenberg. As captured via @iMiaSanMia:

    Bayern are now offering €45-46m including add-ons for João Palhinha. It is the final offer, Bayern won't improve it anymore. Palhinha still believes the move will go through. All parties are willing to reach an agreement and make it happen [@Plettigoal, @SkySportNews]

Just days ago, Telegraph Football reported that Bayern were far below Fulham's asking price — again via @iMiaSanMia:

    Bayern remain significantly short of Fulham's valuation of João Palhinha. Bayern are believed to be willing to pay around £40 million (€47m) for Palhinha this summer, but such a price has so far been deemed unacceptable by the Fulham hierarchy. Talks are understood to be continuing.

    Bayern may be forced to consider alternatives in the defensive midfield position if they cannot reach a deal with Fulham, and have been showing interest in recent months in Everton's Amadou Onana.

Will €45m be enough? It is getting very close to a second round of oh, so close between Bayern and Palhinha.



https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2024/6/29/24171406/bayern-munich-final-45m-transfer-bid-fulham-joao-palhinha-kimmich-onana-goretzka-laimer-pavlovic

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Joao Palhinha is monster as Tottenham told to seal brand new transfer now
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha would be an ideal signing for Tottenham or any Premier League club, according to Dr Rajpal Brar.

The injury expert claims that the Portugal international's availability despite playing such a demanding role is a testament to his habits off the pitch.

This comes after John Wenham, the owner of the Spurs podcast Lilywhite Rose, told Tottenham News on 22 April that he would like to see the North London club signing the 28-year-old

Discussing the state of play with Palhinha exclusively with Tottenham News, Dr Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist, said: "He is a physical monster whose habits and approach off the pitch are second to none.

"One of those players whose fitness levels are so high that he needs games to maintain them.

"Playing such a role would increase risks of injury, but as you can see, playing over 33 league games in each of the last two seasons shows just how good his habits are.

"From a fitness standpoint, he's the ideal signing for Spurs or any Premier League club."

Tottenham must explore deal to sign Joao Palhinha
Palhinha could be an excellent signing for Spurs.

As a proven Premier League midfielder with Fulham, he brings experience and a strong defensive presence, and his renowned for his tackling ability.

His ability to shield the defence would allow Spurs' more creative midfielders to focus on attacking, potentially improving the team's balance and effectiveness.

However, any deal to sign the Portugal international is unlikely to be a cheap one for the North London side.



https://www.tottenhamhotspurnews.com/exclusives/joao-palhinha-is-monster-as-tottenham-told-to-seal-brand-new-transfer-now/

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Serbia go out after Danish draw
Sasa Lukic's Serbia crashed out of Euro 2024 at the group stage after a disappointing goalless draw against Denmark in Group C.

The Serbians, who seized a stoppage time lifeline through Luka Jovic's late leveller against Slovenia, saw a goal correctly disallowed for offside and were unable to get the goal they needed to keep their feint hopes of making the knockout stages alive.

The Danes, for whom former Fulham centre back Joachim Andersen featured in defence, progressed to a last sixteen meeting with host nation Germany.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/serbia-go-out-after-danish-draw/

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Castagne keeps clean sheet
Fulham full back Timothy Castagne helped Belgian keep a clean sheet as his country closed their Euro 2024 Group F campaign with a scoreless draw against Ukraine.

Belgium were pipped to the group winners' spot by Romania on goals scored with the Red Devils forced to settle for second spot having scored two goals fewer than the Romanians. Belgium will now play France in the second round.

Belgium missed a host of chances to break the deadlock but were, in the end, indebted to Castagne – who hurt himself in making an important challenge to deny Ruslan Malinovskyi a chance to score.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/castagne-keeps-clean-sheet/

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Georgia stun Portugal
Joao Palhinha played 45 minutes as Georgia produced the shock of the European Championships so far by beating Portugal to remarkably qualify for the knockout stages.

The Fulham midfielder actually found himself in advanced positions on several occasions for Portugal – firing in a couple of long-range efforts – but was substituted on the stroke of half time having come close to being booked for the second time in the tournament.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/georgia-stun-portugal/

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Jamaica fall to Ecuador defeat
Fulham winger Bobby De Cordova-Reid played in his second Copa America game as Jamaica were beaten by Ecuador in their latest group match overnight.

De Cordova-Reid, who has still to sign the contract extension that is on the table this summer at Craven Cottage, played the full ninety minutes in Nevada as Jamaica went down to a hotly-contested 3-1 defeat, captaining the side in the second half.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/jamaica-fall-to-ecuador-defeat/

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Fulham U21s face Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Walsall in EFL Trophy
Fulham's under 21s have been drawn alongside Birmingham City, Shrewsbury Town and Walsall in Group A of the EFL Trophy this afternoon.

All of Fulham's group games will be played away from home with dates of the matches and ticketing information to be confirmed in due course.


https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/fulham-u21s-face-birmingham-shrewsbury-and-walsall-in-efl-trophy/

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Ream and Robinson punished by Panama
The USA's hopes of reaching the knockout phase of the Copa America were dealt a damaging blow when Gregg Berhalter's side were beaten 2-1 by Panama in Atalanta overnight.

Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson were both in the starting line-up with Robinson setting up the hosts opening goal as the States made light of being reduced to ten men following Timothy Weah's sending off midway through the first half. The Fulham full back won possession back from Panama in an advanced position, drove deep into opposition territory and played a one-two with Folarin Balogun, who fired home impressively.

Cesar Blackman equalised within four minutes for Panama and Jose Fajardo put the unfancied Panamanians ahead with seven minutes of normal time remaining. Ream was replaced by Josh Sergeant as Berhalter gambled to try and grab a late leveller but, despite seeing Adaberto Carraquilla seeing red for violent conduct, Panama held on for a famous victory.

The USA will now likely need to beat Uruguay, who have won both of their group matches so far, in Missouri on Monday to make into the next round.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/ream-and-robinson-punished-by-panama/

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Pereira helps Brazil thrash Paraguay
Andreas Pereira produced a late cameo from the substitutes' bench as he made his first appearance of the Copa America as Brazil beat Paraguay 4-1 in Los Angeles.

Brazil put the disappointment of drawing their opening fixture behind them with a comprehensive victory over Paraguay. They eased into a 3-0 half-time lead with Vinicius Junior bagging a brace and Savio scoring a tap-in. A powerful strike from Omar Alderete helped Paraguay reduce their arrears, but Lucas Paqueta converted a penalty to make sure of the points. Pereira made his first competitive appearance for his country when he came on for the final eleven minutes.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/auto-draft/

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Report: Two Fulham Stars Move Closer to Securing Summer Exits

Fulham's Crucial Summer: Navigating the Uncertain Futures of Willian and De Cordova-Reid
Summer Signings or Sad Goodbyes?
As we edge closer to the summer transfer window, Fulham faces the unsettling prospect of losing two key attacking figures, Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid, both of whom are on the cusp of becoming free agents. According to a recent article by The Evening Standard, despite the club's efforts to secure their services, the duo's future at Craven Cottage remains in limbo.

Willian and De Cordova-Reid have been integral to Fulham's tactical setup, bringing a blend of experience and dynamism to the team. Their potential departure could leave a significant void in Marco Silva's squad, challenging him to rethink his strategy for the upcoming season.

Contractual Crossroads
The situation with Willian and De Cordova-Reid is emblematic of the broader challenges faced by football clubs at the end of the season. Fulham has already extended offers to both players: a two-year contract for De Cordova-Reid and a one-year offer for Willian, who prefers shorter commitments at this stage of his career.

"Both players look set to become free agents before deciding their futures," the article notes, highlighting the uncertainty that pervades the air at Fulham. This ambiguity isn't new to Willian, who, last summer, chose to let his contract run out before eventually re-signing with Fulham. Such decisions underscore the often complex and strategic nature of contract negotiations in football.

Exploring New Horizons
Adding to the intrigue, both players are reportedly attracting interest from other clubs. Willian, with a commendable tally of 67 appearances and 10 goals since joining Fulham in 2022, has caught the eye of several Brazilian clubs. Meanwhile, De Cordova-Reid, who has been a reliable scorer with 32 goals in 209 appearances, might not decide his future until after his commitments at the Copa America with the Jamaican national team.

This scenario puts Fulham in a precarious position. The club's desire to retain both players is evident, but the allure of new challenges and perhaps more lucrative deals could sway the players' decisions.

Strategic Implications for Fulham
Fulham's management, particularly Marco Silva, is keen on retaining both players. Silva's tactical approach benefits significantly from Willian's seasoned prowess and De Cordova-Reid's versatility. Losing them could mean a step back just when the club needs to consolidate its Premier League status.

Moreover, with Marek Rodak also set to leave as a free agent, Fulham's summer could be as much about keeping their squad intact as it is about strengthening. As other clubs, like Leeds, are eyeing Fulham's outgoing talents for their potential acquisitions, Silva's challenges are not just about recruitment but retention.

Looking Ahead
As Fulham braces itself for these potential exits, the focus within the club will be on negotiations and securing a squad capable of competing at the highest level. The outcomes of these negotiations will likely resonate beyond the summer, shaping Fulham's strategies and perhaps even their survival in top-flight football.

While the club remains hopeful of striking new deals, the reality of football's fluid dynamics means that nothing is certain until the ink dries on the contracts. For Fulham, this summer is not just about who comes in through the gates of Craven Cottage, but also about who stays.

In conclusion, as The Evening Standard aptly puts it, the decisions of Willian and De Cordova-Reid are pivotal. Their choices will significantly influence Fulham's preparations for the coming season and potentially its success. As fans, all we can do is wait, watch, and hope that the club's charm offensive pays off in retaining these key players.



https://eplindex.com/113954/report-two-fulham-stars-move-closer-to-securing-summer-exits.html

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Fulham planning to keep Palhinha
Fulham are planning a concerted effort to keep Joao Palhinha this summer as they attempt to ward off Bayern Munich's renewed interest.

The Germans are preparing what is billed in the German press as their final bid for the Portuguese international – believed to be around £38m. Bayern have suggested that this is a take it or leave it bid for the defensive midfielder but, with the Londoners' valuing him at at least £60m, that offer is likely to be rejected.

Sky Germany claim that Fulham are already acting to keep one of their prized assets happy. That could include a proposal to further extend his contract at Craven Cottage, despite Palhinha putting pen to paper on a new deal last autumn after the collapse of his proposed move to Munich on the final day of the summer transfer window.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/fulham-planning-to-keep-palhinha/

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'Both clubs know where I want to be' - Joao Palhinha hints at Fulham departure as Bayern Munich saga takes another twist with €45m take-it-or-leave-it offer
Palhinha has suggested he has made it clear he wishes to leave Fulham and join Bayern Munich as the German giants seek to sign the midfielder.

    Bayern want to sign Palhinha
    Deal collapsed last summer
    German side made new offer

WHAT HAPPENED?

The Portuguese midfielder has spent two seasons at Craven Cottage and has long been chased by Bayern. The Bavarian side believe Palhinha is the ideal signing to add a bit of steel to transform their midfield in their quest to wrestle back the Bundesliga title from Bayer Leverkusen. The 28-year-old has made it no secret that he wishes to make the switch too following news of a €45 million (£38m/$48m) bid.

WHAT PALHINHA SAID

Speaking before Portugal's clash with Slovenia in the European Championships round of 16, Palhinha was asked about his future at Fulham. He said simply: "As far as my future is concerned, both clubs know where I want to be in a month."

DID YOU KNOW?

Palhinha was close to securing the move he wants last summer and even completed a medical in Germany, but the clubs could not agree on a fee and the deal collapsed. After the failed transfer, Palhinha signed a new deal in west London but, less than a year later, wants to move on again.

WHAT NEXT FOR PALHINHA?

Palhinha's Portugal side take on Slovenia aiming to progress to a quarter-final against either France or Belgium. Should they then win the quarter-final they could meet hosts Germany or Spain in the semi-final.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/joao-palhinha-fulham-departure-bayern-munich-saga-another-twist-45m-offer/blte23ca6a0c28d5cdd#cs3be8a9b1556526ff

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Adams, Robinson urge USMNT to 'give everything' in pivotal Uruguay match
The U.S. men's national team may be facing an immense challenge to avoid an early Copa América exit, but Tyler Adams and Antonee Robinson at least know what it's going to take to pull off a statement win over Uruguay.

A 2-1 loss to Panama marred by Tim Weah's red card has left the USMNT facing a difficult scenario in Group C.

While there are a range of outcomes that the U.S. could use to go through, a win on Monday in Kansas City is likely to end up a requirement.

"We're gonna have to definitely be on our 'A' game," defender Antonee Robinson told reporters at a Saturday press conference. "There's no reason to hold anything back. We're all gonna have to give everything in this game."

As of Saturday, Uruguay is Copa América's top-scoring team, ringing up eight goals after following a 3-1 win over Panama with a 5-0 demolition of Bolivia. Marcelo Bielsa's trademark pressing tactics have defined both games, with Uruguay's traditional intensity amped up to 10 even when both prior wins appeared decided.

Adams: USMNT 'match up well' vs. Uruguay
Still, as impressive as La Celeste have been, USMNT midfielder Tyler Adams was able to discuss his familiarity with how to solve the puzzle posed by Bielsa's man-marking approach.

"We have a lot of players that match up well in this style of play specifically, so movement is going to be the biggest key in this game," said the Bournemouth midfielder, who would go on to note that his club coach Andoni Iraola has learned directly from the iconoclastic Argentine manager.

"Man-to-man, you have to move, constantly be moving. Sometimes you're not always going to be the first option in possession, it's going to be second option and then find your space afterwards.

"They have a lot of athleticism in their midfield, as do we. I play under a coach now that plays a similar style as Bielsa and learned from Bielsa at Athletic [Club]. So, [I'm] kind of used to play against that."

Beyond the tactical nuance and physical demands of that constant motion, Robinson added that the USMNT will have to find the spaces Uruguay leaves open while aggressively pressing the ball.

"Playing against teams who Bielsa has coached in the past, we know that they're going to be extremely high-intensity, really forward-thinking," explained the 26-year-old. "They play quite a high-risk, high-reward game... [The USMNT must] try and find a balance between being able to exploit their weakness and making sure we don't expose ourselves too much as well."

However, going beyond a game plan, the biggest task at hand is clear: the USMNT has to empty the tank to have a chance.

"If we're looking at it realistically, there's a chance that this is our last game in the tournament," said Robinson. "I think it's definitely going to come down to a massive effort from the team."



https://prosoccerwire.usatoday.com/2024/06/29/usmnt-copa-america-uruguay-tyler-adams-antonee-robinson/

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Bayern Munich set to make final bid for Joao Palhinha
Manchester United are edging closer to finding out whether they'll have a shot at signing Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.

Ahead of the past January transfer window, The Peoples Person relayed an update stating that Man United entered the race to sign Palhinha, with the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, and Bayern Munich also expressing interest in the Portuguese rising star.

Palhinha proved to be a capable central midfielder for Fulham last season, also exhibiting the desired qualities of a defensive midfielder.

Making a massive 4.6 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, and 5.9 ball recoveries per game, Palhinha proved that he has the physicality to provide ample support to his defence. He won an impressive 61% of his total duels, which includes 62% of his ground duels.

The Portuguese midfielder also exhibited his quality on the ball, completing 83% of his attempted passes along with 89% in his own half. (Statistics via Sofascore)

It appears as if Bayern in particular paid especially close attention to Palhinha's progress, deciding to intensify their efforts to sign him during the upcoming transfer window after last summer's failed attempt.

Earlier this month, it was reported that the Bundesliga giants made contact with the player in an effort to lure him to the club this summer.

With new Bayern manager Vincent Kompany speaking personally with Palhinha, it was added that the player himself was not in need of much convincing to express his enthusiasm about a potential deal.

Still, even as it appeared as if Bayern beat United to the punch, their pursuit of the Fulham star did not go as smoothly as anticipated.

Last week, The Peoples Person relayed the news that Fulham rejected Bayern's initial €42 million offer for Palhinha.

Now, it appears as if the Bavarian club will have one last roll of the dice before setting their sights elsewhere.

Sky Sports Germany report that Bayern have prepared one final offer for Palhinha to the value of €45 to €46 million.

"That's it, there's nothing more coming. Bayern have no plans to add anything more," reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed.

With Bayern appearing to have run out of patience in their pursuit of Palhinha, United may be in with a stronger chance than ever to scoop up the player should they submit a higher offer that Fulham deems acceptable.



https://thepeoplesperson.com/2024/06/29/bayern-munich-set-to-make-final-bid-for-joao-palhinha-282211/

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Who is Marek Rodak? Leeds United transfer 'target' profiled amid Illan Meslier interest
As the summer transfer window heats up for Leeds United, Whites boss Daniel Farke will have a shortlist of replacements for his top stars at hand

The rumour mill is in full swing around Leeds United in this summer's transfer window and manager Daniel Farke has a lot of business to sort out as his side try and chase promotion back to the Premier League for the second season running.

Having been named favourites to go and win the Championship already in this upcoming season, Farke will need to see more of what Leeds showed throughout the early parts of 2024 and far less of what plagued them towards the end of the campaign. But the Whites boss will need to keep at least some of his key players in order to go one better than last season and that may be more difficult than many imagined.

Interest in a range of Leeds players from Premier League clubs has led to reports around numerous departures for the likes of Archie Gray, Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto but one star's exit also on the cards is that of goalkeeper Illan Meslier. Despite getting a share of the Championship Golden Glove last season, and having three seasons of Premier League experience under his belt, the 24-year-old is believed to be keen to leave the Whites this summer in favour of a move to Ligue 1 outfit Marseille.

 A report from French outlet La Provence claims Meslier is in "contact" with Marseille but manager Farke has repeatedly highlighted his belief that the French youth international is the 'best' shot-stopper in England not playing in the Premier League. Following their 1-0 win over eventual champions Leicester City in November last year, he claimed: "His potential [is brilliant] without any doubt. He can be any goalkeeper at one point.

"[He's] unbelievably young and it's important for him to play with confidence. He has the skills to play out from the back, but he needs confidence for this, but his potential is outstanding. A diamond like him has to be backed. Young goalkeepers will make mistakes, but this has to be expected. He is the best goalkeeper in the league."

 However, it's unclear whether Farke will get his way in keeping the star who may force a move, leading to reports now suggesting Leeds hold interest in out-of-favour Fulham goalkeeper Marek Rodak as a potential replacement. So with that being said, here's Rodak profiled...

Background
The goalkeeper began his career in his home country of Slovakia, joining MFK Košice in 2013 before getting a trial at Fulham and joining their academy in July that year at 16. He immediately impressed and was selected for the club's Under-18 fixtures on a regular basis, becoming their first choice and a vital part of the side that claimed their second successive Barclays Premier League title while simultaneously reaching the Final of the FA Cup Youth Cup for the first time in 2014.

The season after, he spent two months on loan at Farnborough before moving up into Fulham's Under-21s squad, a move which saw him then join Welling United in January 2016 on a half-season loan. He would then spend the second half of the 2016/17 season on loan at Accrington Stanley, helping them reach a mid-table finish having joined whilst they were deep in the relegation zone.

 Rodak made his Fulham debut in the Carabao Cup in 2017 before a two-season loan stint at Rotherham United saw him help them gain promotion from League One to the Championship via a 2-1 play-off win over Shrewsbury Town at Wembley. Since then, he's managed to help Fulham gain promotion to the Premier League twice, but has found himself as the backup to both Alphonse Areola and Bernd Leno in recent seasons.

Also a regular in the Slovakia national team, Rodak has a distinction that marks him different to other goalkeepers having actually scored more than one goal in his career. The first came for Fulham in an Under-21s Premier League match against Aston Villa in 2014, with the second being a 94th-minute winner for Slovakia's Under-21s in 2018 in the Under-21s European Championships Qualifiers over Iceland.

He has made 22 appearances for the senior team since then, and is now part of their 26-man Euro 2024 squad having led them through the Group Stage and into the Round of 16 for just the second time in their history, as they face England today.



https://www.leeds-live.co.uk/sport/leeds-united/who-marek-rodak-leeds-united-29444110