Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 24/07/24...

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Fulham seek Summerville switch
Fulham and West Ham United are interesting in signing the Leeds United winger Crysencio Summerville, according to Sky Sports News.

Leeds have already entered into discussions with the Hammers regarding a proposed permanent transfer, but both clubs are currently too far apart. Fulham have been tracking the 22 year-old for the best part of two years and, with Somerville into the last two years of his contract at Elland Road, there could be potential for a deal.

Somerville won the Championship of player of the year award last term, scoring 21 goals and making ten more before Daniel Farke's side were beaten by Southampton in the play-off final.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-seek-summerville-switch/

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Jay Stansfield to Birmingham City transfer: Marco Silva plan, price-tag, rival interest
Birmingham City have been linked with another transfer for Fulham striker Jay Stansfield

Birmingham City have been linked with a move to bring Jay Stansfield back from Fulham. Striker Stansfield, 21, was a revelation at St Andrew's last term having scored 13 goals in all competitions, including 12 in Blues' ill-fated Championship campaign, and despite relegation he left his mark on all associated with the club.

The club's League One status may otherwise prove a stumbling block; Stansfield left League One Exeter City for Fulham in the first place and only signed a new deal at Craven Cottage prior to be loaned by Blues last summer. That said, he maintains a strong bond with Blues, who he said at the end of last season 'would always have a special place in his heart'.

What is clear is that Blues, despite having signed Alfie May from Charlton Athletic fresh from his 27-goal season, are in the market for another attack-minded player as Chris Davies continues to work with Craig Gardner and Blues' recruitment team in order to identify and target suitable players who can improve the squad and aim for promotion at the first attempt. Stansfield would certainly fit the bill.

What Stansfield has said
At the club's end of season awards dinner, Stansfield confirmed how much he'd enjoyed himself in a Blues shirt despite relegation, and he also predicted that the club would return to its rightful place quickly, setting aside the disappointment of the drop so early into Knighthead's highly ambitious project.

 "Going up there and knowing my teammates have voted for me, and the supporters, I just felt sad to be leaving," Stansfield said. "It's one of those things, I signed up for a season's loan and I've loved every minute and learnt a lot. I think I've just built up such a relationship with the fans and the club that I wanted to give my all in every game. The goal early on helped. I earned my respect on the first day and could show everyone why I chose Birmingham.

"We came up short in the end and everyone around the club is feeling hurt. I think the club will be back where it belongs very soon. Hopefully next season they can push on. Being around the city and seeing the fans, and seeing how welcoming and hard-working everybody is, there are amazing people everywhere round here."

What Fulham have said
Fulham boss Marco Silva is a fan of the player and has previously indicated that he would remain in London ahead of their forthcoming Premier League campaign - although it remains to be seen if he'll stay at the Cottage.

"He's going to be back with us," Silva said in May as he assessed the 21-year-old striker's Blues campaign. "Everything we planned, apart from the collective goal of Birmingham which was not what we wanted, was a box [ticked].

"He played the season before in League One [with Exeter City], and to be able to give a step forward in the Championship and be an important piece in the attack-line and score important goals [was pleasing]. Jay achieved all the important things. Now is the moment for him to come back and be one of the players in our attacking line for next season."

The price-tag
Say Stansfield leaves, or becomes available to Blues on a permanent basis - Blues, who have not been shy to spend already this summer, would have to break the League One transfer record, paid for a player, for the third time this window after the additions of Willum Willumsson and Christoph Klarer.

Stansfield signed a new contract prior to leaving for Blues as Fulham guarded against the possibility of further down the line - something which has materialised - and that deal runs until 2027, with Fulham having the option of a further 12 months in their favour. The Cottagers, coupled with Stansfield's year last year, could ask for what they like - as much as £6m has been touted already.

Rival interest
 Cardiff City have emerged as potential rivals for Stansfield if Fulham decide that he is available; they're are desperate to add a striker, after last year their top goalscorers only managed six each - one of them was Karlan Grant, who as mentioned has since left. BBC Sport Wales add that they'd like to make an attacking addition while they're away in Austria this week.

Knighthead vision
On the face of it, the idea of Birmingham City bringing Jay Stansfield back to the club following relegation to League One would appear entirely fanciful. And yet. And yet...

Stansfield didn't just strike a chord while on loan last year - he played an entire romantic symphony, BirminghamLive writes. At a time when players who spend time at clubs on loan can often be accused of being disinterested and detached from their surroundings, knowing that the club's fate won't directly impact them, it speaks volumes that Stansfield's spell can be reflected on as the polar opposite.



https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/jay-stansfield-birmingham-city-transfer-29590948

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Fulham, West Ham and Nottingham Forest hover for same signing – Player 'could soon pack' bags, €20m fee
Fulham, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City are all in the picture to sign AC Milan's Alexis Saelemaekers this summer, according to a report from Italy.

Last Wednesday, Calciomercato stated Nottingham Forest and Leicester City are crazy about the winger, who is valued between €10m and €15m by the Serie A side. A day later, the same outlet said the Foxes are keen to sign him, while West Ham have also joined the chase.

Calciomercato.it now mention Fulham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Leicester when talking about the 25-year-old's future. The report mainly focuses on the calls that a few Rossoneri players could receive from the Premier League.

Jan-Carlo Simić and Luka Romero have already packed their bags, while Saelemaekers 'could soon pack' for a move to England, where he has a 'big market'.

It's claimed Fulham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Leicester have shown interest in the Belgium international. He's expected to leave the San Siro and the report claims Milan value him at €20m. This is at least €5m higher than the fee quoted by Calciomercato last week.

Calciomercato.it now make no mention of Saelemaekers's preference among the Premier League quartet.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-west-ham-and-nottingham-forest-keen-on-same-signing-player-could-soon-pack-bags-e20m-fee/

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Hull City to sign former Birmingham City, Cardiff, Luton and Fulham star on free transfer
One of Birmingham City's loan signings from last season has earned himself a move to a Championship club.

Birmingham City loanee Cody Drameh is to join a club in the Championship following his departure from Leeds United.

According to Barry Cooper, the journalist for Hull Live, Hull City will be signing the defender. He is due to at their training ground today and that his move from Leeds is 'expected to be confirmed'.

The 22-year-old was offered a new contract by the Whites, but according to those in West Yorkshire, that was so they could receive compensation with Drameh unlikely to sign new terms. Drameh is a free agent now, but the Tigers will have to pay a nominal fee to Drameh, who brought him through their academy system.

He spent almost the entirety of the 2023/24 season on loan with Blues and featured under various managers. Drameh made 30 appearances in a Birmingham City shirt, but found himself out of favour towards the end of his loan spell.

He made just one start under Gary Rowett for the end of season run in, and only made one further appearance following a change in management. Drameh didn't make the match day squad against Coventry City, Rotherham United and Huddersfield Town, and was an unused substitute in their final day win over Norwich City, which saw them relegated despite the victory.

His move to Hull will represent the sixth club of his career with this being his third permanent team. He came through the academy of Fulham and played for their under-18 and under-21s teams, before moving to Elland Road in 2020. Drameh made 10 appearances for Leeds spread across a few seasons and had loan spells at Cardiff City and Luton Town. At Cardiff, he was named their Player of the Season, despite only joining in January and then at Luton, he helped them win promotion to the Premier League.



https://www.birminghamworld.uk/sport/football/birmingham-city/cody-drameh-hull-city-birmingham-city-cardiff-fulham-4712839

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Cardiff City join Birmingham City in race to sign Fulham striker
Cardiff City have joined Birmingham City in the race to sign Fulham striker Jay Stansfield.

That is according to BBC Sport, which states that the Bluebirds are stepping up their search for a new striker and have shown tentative interest in Stansfield.

 Cardiff are preparing for another Championship season under manager Erol Bulut, after it looked towards the end of last season that he could have been leaving the club following the 2022/23 season.

But Bulut has signed a new contract with the Welsh side, and the hope is that they can kick on from their midtable finish last season.

Cardiff have already added to their squad this summer with the additions of Chris Willock and Calum Chambers, but a striker is now seen as a priority, and Stansfield looks to be an option.

Cardiff City join Birmingham City in the Jay Stansfield race
It was reported by Football Insider on Monday that Birmingham City have opened talks with Premier League club Fulham over the permanent signing of Stansfield.

 The report stated that the Blues are preparing to offer Fulham a package that could be worth as much as £6 million.

The forward is under contract at Craven Cottage until the summer of 2027, but the report states that the Premier League side are open to letting the player leave.

Now, Birmingham face stiff competition in the race to sign Stansfield as Championship side Cardiff City have joined the Blues in their pursuit.

That is according to BBC Sport, which states that the Bluebirds are stepping up their search for a new striker, and they have a tentative interest in the Fulham forward.

The report states that Cardiff could look to sign two new strikers this summer as they look to improve their forward line.

Jay Stansfield's 2023/24 stats
 Last season was Stansfield's first season playing in the Championship on a regular basis, after spending the campaign in League One with Exeter City.

The 21-year-old started his career with the Grecians before he joined Fulham in 2019. However, his time with the Cottagers has been frustrating, as the striker's only played eight times for the club in the first team.

Jay Stansfield's Birmingham City stats

Apps	17
Goals	13
Assists	3

Stats as per Transfermarkt (As it stands on July 23rd)

His loan spell with Exeter in the 2022/23 season was very much a breakthrough for the player, but last season with Birmingham City was even more important.

The forward was able to play 47 times for the Blues in all competitions, 43 of which came in the league, and in that period, he scored 13 goals, with all but one coming in the Championship.

Jay Stansfield needs to leave Fulham this summer
 Stansfield is a player who does look to have a bright future ahead of him, but it appears as though that future could be away from Fulham.

The striker has spent the last two seasons out on loan, and it now appears as though the Premier League side is willing to cut ties with the player.

Therefore, if Stansfield really does want to kick on his career, he needs to leave Fulham in this transfer window and secure a move to either Birmingham City or Cardiff City.

It will be a choice of whether the player wants to remain playing in the second tier or if he likes the idea of joining Birmingham in League One and helping them get back to the Championship.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/cardiff-city-join-birmingham-city-in-race-to-sign-fulhams-jay-stansfield/

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Greatrex elected new FSA chair
Fulham fan Tom Greatrex has been elected as the new chair of the Football Supporters' Association at the organisation's Annual General Meeting at Wembley.

Greatrex, who chaired the Back to the Cottage campaign that secured Fulham's return to their historic home in 2004, succeeds long-serving chair Malcolm Clarke, who steps down after 22 years at the helm of the national supporters' organisation. Having served as vice-chair to Clarke and had two stints as chair of the Fulham Supporters' Trust and been a campaigning member of the FA Council, Greatrex will bring a wealth of football experience to the role.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/greatrex-elected-new-fsa-chair/

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Fulham in race to sign Saelemaekers
Fulham are one of four Premier League clubs keen on signing AC Milan winger Alexis Saelemaekers, according to reports from Italy.

Calciomercato reported the Whites' interest in the Belgian international for the first time this morning, having last week discussed contact between the player's agents and West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Leicester City. The 25 year-old Belgian international, who has spent four years with AC MIlan, is expected to leave the San Siro this summer, having been loaned out to Bologna for the 2023/2024.

Milan are said to want around £16.85m for the winger, who helped them win Serie A in 2021/2022. Fulham head coach Marco Silva is known to be looking at wide players as he seeks to revamp his squad before the start of the Premier League season.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-in-race-to-sign-saelemaekers/

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Cardiff join Stansfield chase
Cardiff City are keen on signing Fulham forward Jay Stansfield, according to BBC Sport.

The Bluebirds are looking for striking reinforcements this summer as they prepare for the new campaign with a pre-season training camp in Austria. The Whites turned down a bid from Birmingham City, where Stansfield scored thirteen goals on loan last season, for the England under-21 international earlier this week.

Fulham head coach Marco Silva believes Stansfield can play a role in the Premier League this season and the Cottagers have rejected a number of loan offers from Championship clubs already over the summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/cardiff-join-stansfield-chase/

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Fulham Women draw opening pre-season friendly
Fulham FC Women drew their first pre-season friendly 1-1 with Real Bedford at McMullen Park this afternoon.

The National League outfit took the lead during a first half played in baking hot conditions, but the Whites equalised after the break through Megalie Mendes.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-women-draw-opening-pre-season-friendly/

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Leeds United 'formalise' interest in Ipswich Town, Everton and Fulham transfer target
Leeds United have reportedly formalised their interest in Blackburn Rovers talisman Sammie Szmodics.

The attacking midfielder enjoyed a stunning 2023/24 season, scoring 27 goals in the Championship and narrowly missing out on the division's Player of the Season award to Crysencio Summerville.

His exploits for Blackburn have generated interest in securing his services and Ipswich Town are said to have had a bid rejected for the Republic of Ireland international. In recent months, the likes of Everton, Fulham and Celtic have also been credited with interest.

Leeds have also been named as a potential destination for Szmodics and talkSPORT's Alex Crook has claimed the Whites have formalised their interest.

He is under contract at Ewood Park until 2026, meaning Blackburn are in a strong negotiating position. Leeds, however, have had their coffers boosted by the recent sales of Archie Gray and Glen Kamara.

There could be further cash coming in too, with wingers Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto reportedly attracting interest from the Premier League. If either of the pair depart, Leeds will be under pressure to recruit and allay fears among fans.

Szmodics would arguably be a significant coup for Leeds, who saw how talented he is up close last term. Blackburn pulled off a major upset at Elland Road in April, with Szmodics the man who notched the winning goal.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united-formalise-interest-in-ipswich-town-everton-and-fulham-transfer-target-4713167

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West Ham United transfer update emerges on £21m-rated striker Semih Kilicsoy
West Ham, Tottenham, Aston Villa and Fulham are all keen on signing Besiktas striker Semih Kilicsoy, according to Caught Offside.

The news outlet reported on 23 July that the Hammers have even scouted the 18-year-old who could be available for a £21million fee this summer.

Villa and Fulham have both issued opening bids for the Turkey international but have seen Besiktas turning them down.

West Ham must be careful in their pursuit of Semih Kilicsoy
The 18-year-old has been on the club's radar for a while and an approach had been made for him in January as well. [Turkish-Football.com, 14 July]

However, the Hammers should avoid gambling on signing a teenager like Kilicsoy and instead focus on acquiring an established striker in his prime, even if it costs a little more.

While the Turkish forward may have potential, he is still developing and unproven at the top level.

The Premier League is a highly competitive environment where experienced and proven talent is often more reliable.

An established striker in his prime would offer immediate impact and a higher probability of consistently delivering goals, which is crucial for a club like West Ham, aiming for a strong league finish and possibly European football.

Investing in youth is important, but for a club in the Hammers' position, immediate success is also a priority.

Furthermore, the £21million fee for Kilicsoy is a significant investment that could be used to secure a more established player.



https://www.westhamzone.com/transfers/west-ham-united-transfer-update-emerges-on-21m-rated-striker-semih-kilicsoy/

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Fulham set to face Premier League competition as they prepare offer for target
Yesterday we covered reports from Turkey that Fulham have been following Besiktas youngster Mustafa Hekimoğlu for a considerable time.

The 17-year-old has been impressing in Besiktas' youth set up which led to involvement with the Super Lig's senior team last season.

Subsequently, Fulham are in the race to sign the attacker with claims they are preparing an offer to sign him. However, the latest reports in the Turkish media say Fulham are expected to face competition.

According to Takvim there are several Premier League sides which are monitoring the situation with the forward, but other than Fulham they have not been disclosed.

Whether Besiktas are prepared to sell the player this summer is unknown, but their manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst is said to be keen to work with him next season.

Hekimoğlu has yet to cement a place in Besiktas' first team, but last season he made brief appearances in the Turkish Cup and in the Conference League. He's contracted to the Black Eagles until June 2027.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-set-face-premier-league-competition-prepare-offer-target/

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Fulham face Sevilla in Algarve
Fulham have confirmed a second pre-season friendly in the Algarve against Sevilla on Monday 5 August.

The fixture follows Fulham's first match in the Algarve Trophy, which sees Marco Silva's side take on Benfica on Friday 3 August. The meeting with the 2023 Europa League winners will kick off at 8pm local time.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/fulham-face-sevilla-in-algarve/

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'We want' - Manchester United boss sends blunt transfer warning to Tottenham and Fulham
Tottenham and Fulham have been warned to stay off one of Manchester United's stars.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has warned potential suitors that he wants to keep midfielder Scott McTominay this season. LondonWorld has been told that Scotland international McTominay is on the list of potential midfielders Tottenham Hotspur are looking at, alongside Chelsea's Conor Gallagher and Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

The 27-year-old, who was the subject of a failed bid from West Ham last summer, has been linked to Fulham as a potential replacement for Joao Palhinha, who has joined Bayern Munich.

Last season, McTominay started 27 matches for the Red Devils and was their joint-third-highest scorer with 10 goals after moving into a more advanced role where he added goals to his game. Impressively, he outscored more established names like Marcus Rashford and Christian Eriksen.

He was also pivotal for his country, contributing seven goals as Scotland qualified for the Euros in Germany. As reports continue to link the Scotland international with a move away from the club, manager Ten Hag confirmed 27-year-old to remain with the club.

Ten Hag said when asked about McTominay's future: "We have very good players, so there will always be interest from other clubs. When you score 10 goals in a season and also perform very well for Scotland, then there will be interest.

"But we want to keep him because he is a very important player for our squad. What he can contribute, as we saw last season once we had our sixes available, is that he could play in a more advanced role, and he is a highly interesting player for our team."

Tottenham have lost Pierre-Emile Højbjerg to Marseille and left Bryan Gil in North London while the first team heads off to Asia for their pre-season game. This suggests that they will be in the transfer market for a new midfielder to strengthen the squad.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/spurs/we-want-manchester-united-boss-sends-blunt-transfer-warning-to-tottenham-and-fulham-4713947

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Fulham exciting £191m-rated starting XI for Man Utd season opener if transfer rumours come true
Marco Silva is in need of transfer arrivals ahead of the start of the Premier League season following a number of first team exits from Craven Cottage.

It's been a quiet summer of transfer activity for Fulham when it comes to confirmed incoming at Craven Cottage ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

Nonetheless, rumours surrounding the club have been rife. The exit of Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich for £47 million has prompted links to several Premier League stars while the departure of Tosin Adarabioyo as a free agent has left a hole in defence that needs filling.

The Cottagers begin their Premier League campaign with a trip to Manchester United on August 16 and supporters will hope that some rumours become reality to bolster Marco Silva's starting XI. LondonWorld looks at what the Fulham team for that match could look like if current rumours do prove true - market values as per Transfermarkt.

1. GK - Bernd Leno, £11m
Played every Premier League fixture last season and was captain for a handful of matches towards the end of the campaign.

2. LB - Antonee Robinson, £21m
Fulham's Player of the Season last term had been linked with a potential big money summer move to Chelsea or Liverpool. Those rumours have since cooled, which will be a relief to Cottagers' fans.

3. CB - Teden Mengi, £10m
Fulham need to sign a centre-back having lost Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea on a free transfer. Tim Ream is also expected to exit and Luton Town man Teden Mengi is a rumoured incoming.

4. CB - Calvin Bassey, £13m
In and out of the side last season but will hope to step up and marshal defence following Tosin's departure.

5. RB - Timothy Castagne, £14m
A solid first season at Craven Cottage having joined from Leicester City last summer. The full-back has at least another three years on his deal, with the option for another 12 months.

6. CDM - Scott McTominay, £27m
The sale of Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich has fuelled links with centre midfielders. One of those is Red Devils star and Scotland international Scott McTominay with Fulham said to be eyeing a £40 million deal.

7. CDM - Andre, £21m
Linked with a move to Fulham in January and last August, the London club are still thought to hold an interest in the Fluminense star. Negotiations are underway with the player valued at around £25 million.

8. LW - Crysencio Summerville, £17m
With Willian and Bobby De Cordova-Reid leaving Fulham as free agents this summer, the club are in need of wingers. This week, the Cottagers have supposedly shown 'initial interest' in the £30 million valued Championship Player of the Season.

9. CAM - Emile Smith-Rowe, £19m
Andreas Pereira has emerged as a transfer target for Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Aston Villa. However, Fulham may have already found a ready-made replacement in Emile Smith-Rowe and have already had a bid rejected by Arsenal.

10. RW - Alex Iwobi, £21m
Five Premier League goals and two assists last season for Iwobi, a player who has found consistency in his top flight performances. He is capable on either flank or through the middle.

11. ST - Rodrigo Muniz, £17m
The striker position became an emergency recruitment priority in January following an injury to Raul Jimenez. Chelsea loanee Armando Broja came in and didn't impress but that wasn't a worry as Rodrigo Muniz started scoring for fun. The Brazilian has now been handed the number nine shirt and looks set to lead the line next season.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-exciting-ps191m-rated-starting-xi-for-man-utd-season-opener-if-transfer-rumours-come-true-4714121

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Shahid Khan on Fulham, the Riverside and synergy
Fulham owner Shahid Khan is featured in the latest edition of Bloomberg's Power Players. Interviewed by Bloomberg's Jason Kelly last October, the billionaire discusses his plan for synergy between the football club and his other major sporting asset, the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars as well as how his long-term vision for Fulham is shaping up, with particularly reference to the non-matchday revenue streams that could be generated with the Riverside Stand.

The full profile is well worth a look:

https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/07/shahid-khan-on-fulham-the-riverside-and-synergy/

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Fulham, West Ham United in four-way Premier League battle for Alexis Saelemaekers
Fulham and West Ham United are reportedly among the Premier League clubs showing an interest in Alexis Saelemaekers, with AC Milan demanding €20 million.

According to Calcio Mercato, AC Milan could sell Alexis Saelemaekers amid growing Premier League interest. More than two clubs are keen on the Belgian winger, with Fulham and West Ham some of the prominent ones in the chase. The London duo are keen on a wide man.

West Ham in Alexis Saelemaekers hunt
AC Milan are undergoing a vital summer window, with the club expected to make plenty of changes. Part of their outgoing crew, Alexis Saelemaekers, is a player they are keen to sell. They demand at least €20 million for the Belgian winger, who did well while on loan at Bologna last season.

His performances for Bologna helped AC Milan retain his valuation, and there is tremendous interest coming from the Premier League. The €20 million-rated Serie A winger could be seen as an affordable option by the likes of West Ham, who are in the market for a winger and have even held talks for Reiss Nelson, who might cost significantly more than Saelemaekers.

Similarly, they are interested in Crysencio Summerville and may have even made a bid for the Leeds star. However, Dutchman will also cost significantly more than Belgian, which is why West Ham is keen on Saelemaekers in this window.

Milan's insistence on selling will make West Ham's quest easier when pursuing the €20 million-rated Serie A winger. They will face intense competition from Premier League rivals, with the report stating Fulham, Nottingham Forest, and Brighton & Hove Albion as the other suitors interested in the 25-year-old attacker.

Fulham also keen on Saelemaekers
Fulham are also in the market to refresh their attacking setup, as Marco Silva wants a new winger. Saelemaekers can play on both wings, which brings some versatility to the equation, and for the price, he will suit the Cottagers on all fronts.

It remains to be seen whether Fulham can convince Saelemaekers over the other suitors, although Marco Silva's pull should never be underestimated. Hence, there is a good enough battle brewing in the background for the Belgian attacker, with West Ham and the Cottagers considered the key suitors from the Premier League.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/07/23/fulham-west-ham-united-in-four-way-premier-league-battle-for-alexis-saelemaekers/

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Fulham Rumour Round-Up: Conceição, Souza, Saelemaekers

Only Liverpool and Fulham haven't managed to sign a new player this summer in preparation for next season. Yawn. As we jab Tony Khan and co. with the pointiest stick in existence, Cam's got the latest rumours from the press and there's a few that could tickle your fancy.

Francisco Conceição – FC Porto

Exclusive information fed by Graeme Bailey via HITC suggests that Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United and Fulham will rival Chelsea in the race for FC Porto's exciting attacker Francisco Conceição. Featuring for Portugal in this summer's Euros, Conceição's burgeoning expertise were showcased to the world and as he also performed excellently at club level last term – and indeed in seasons gone by – a switch to the English capital could very well be an option for the 21-year-old winger.

Despite his age, Conceição is a much travelled youngster, having begun his career at Greek outfit PAOK. He came to prominence at Ajax and in Portugal, he also represented Sporting CP's youth ranks, as well as Padroense FC's. Son of Porto manager Sergio Conceição, Francisco featured heavily for Dragões during the 2023/24 campaign but that wasn't down to fatherly favouritism. With an output of 8 goals and 8 assists in 43 games, Conceição's efforts warranted involvement and now his release clause has risen from £25m to £38m, any interested party will have to cough up and they'll have to be serious about it.

Semih Kılıçsoy – Besiktas JK

Turkish journalist Sercan Dikme recently revealed that Fulham are allegedly prepared to splash €20m on Besiktas hotshot Semih Kılıçsoy. The 18-year-old striker made his senior debut for Besiktas in February 2023 and since then, the teenager's gone from strength to strength at the Super Lig giants.

In over 2,000 minutes on the pitch across 35 outings, Kılıçsoy has scored 12 goals whilst providing 3 assists and as he's also been capped by his nation, Türkiye, 3 times, he's certainly destined for greater stages than the Turkish top-flight. Perhaps the young attacker's valuation is slightly inflated but he is just one of a number of aspiring Turkish talents at this moment and he is certainly going to be a name to watch out for in the not-so-distant future.

Vinicius Souza – Sheffield United

Trusted informant Rudy Galetti is adamant that Fulham will revive negotiations with Sheffield United for Brazilian midfielder Vinicius Souza, after an initial bid of €18m was apparently rebuffed by the Championship side.

It's not yet known what the supposed improved figure will be but if the Whites are indeed smitten on Souza, they'll have to act fast. AC Milan are also cited as a could-be destination for the 25-year-old so if we're to fend off genuine European heavyweights such as the Rossoneri, we'll have to put our money where our mouth is.

Cameron Puertas – Union Saint-Gilloise

A playmaker with a staggering return last season, Union Saint-Gilloise's Cameron Puertas could be headed for pastures new in the coming weeks and Fulham – according to Foot Mercato – are suitably impressed, and with very good reason.

Puertas chalked up 37 goal involvements as Union SG secured the Jupiler Pro League title – a tally that shouldn't be dismissed – and as well as the Whites, Borussia Monchengladbach are also said to be in the running for the Swiss-born Spanish citizen. The Belgian champions will supposedly demand €15m for their star asset, a shallow sum by today's lofty estimation, so if Marco Silva's shopping for a genuine provider of opportunity at a cut price, Puertas should be high on his list.

Richard Rios – Palmeiras

The name Richard Rios has been doing the rounds on various platforms and a report published by Fichajes proposes that Fulham are hot on the Palmeiras midfielder, and that the Brazilian outfit will demand €21m for the Colombia international.

A key component of the Colombia side that reached the Copa America final this summer, Rios, 24, has certainly turned heads over the last few weeks and as Fulham are on the lookout for Joao Palhinha's replacement, Rios has been placed in the frame. A powerful tempo setter, Rios would take to the Premier League more than naturally and though many may not be familiar with his game, they soon will be.

Jayden Oosterwolde – Fenerbahce SK

An 'X' page centred around Fenerbahce content called Cubuklu Sports is under the impression that Fulham and SSC Napoli have both tabled bids between €17-18m for Jayden Oosterwolde, however Fenerbahce's manager, Mario Branco, has basically rubbished the supposed offers.

Branco's been quoted as saying "don't be wasted with offers below €30m", so he evidently believes his starting left-back is worth much more than what has been pledged already. The Whites will want to add a new left-back to their selection this summer but if we're expected to reach that particular figure, we're obviously best to focus our search elsewhere.

Samuele Ricci – Torino

Italian Serie A side Torino have allegedly rejected a bid from Fulham for Samuele Ricci, as per Tuttosport, as they are evidently unwilling to sell the midfielder for anything less than a 'monstrous' sum. It's said the Whites sent a proposal of €20m plus add-ons for Ricci, but it was instantly snubbed.

If a club were to present an offer of over €30m, Torino could be swayed, but it's unlikely Fulham will improve their initial bid for the 22-year-old. Defensively minded, Ricci could potentially fill the Palhinha-shaped void in our midfield but as we've identified other options that are perhaps better suited, we shouldn't dwell on this refusal too much.

Alexis Saelemaekers – AC Milan

A host of Premier League clubs – per Calcio Mercato – are apparently set to spar it out for AC Milan winger Alexis Saelemaekers. As well as Fulham, West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Brighton & Hove Albion are all monitoring the potential availability of the 25-year-old Belgian, and his performances whilst he was on loan at Bologna last season have certainly got his admirers clucking.

Milan value their man at €20m and are actively seeking to sell the former Anderlecht star. Bargaining with the Italian club could prove to be worthwhile with this in mind, and as the Whites will hopefully want to replenish their wide options, Saelemaekers could be an attacker that gains more mentions as the window progresses. As ever, though, the Whites will have to get a wiggle on.




https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2024-07-23-fulham-rumour-round-up-conceicao-souza-saelemaekers/

[WhiteJC]

Rumour Mongering: Reds to Reunite Fulham Trio
Bookmakers are famously reliable and odds always reflect real probability.

Consider the source, a subtle and toned down Al Pacino character once said, and it's as relevant when evaluating transfer rumours as it is when reading scripture. In the modern media landscape, clicks are the order of the day, for the advertisers must get what they pay for, and thus accuracy and fidelity are consistently given second billing.

The transfer window is open, Liverpool have ambitions of winning titles and a gap to close, and so incoming transfer business is expected to take place before the season kicks off less than four weeks from now. Exactly which areas of the team should be prioritised remain a subject of hot debate, particularly since a football has hardly yet been kicked under the stewardship of new head coach Arne Slot, and it is difficult to say what the team needs at the moment.

That won't stop the rumour mill, though, and the most recent batch has been triggered by the bookmakers, as odds were slashed today on Matt O'Riley joining the club. The 22-year old currently plies his trade north of the border, and was arguably the best player in the SPL last season, as Brendan Rodgers continued Ange Postecoglu's work and Celtic secured a third consecutive league title.

The London-born Danish international racked up an impressive 19 goals and 18 assists from the right side of the Bhoys' midfield three, while establishing himself as truly undroppable, racking up 4,300 minutes as he featured in 49 of the club's 50 fixtures across all competitions. A rare combination of size, work rate, skill and end product saw the Fulham youth product — who featured for the Cottagers alongside Harvey Elliott and Fabio Carvalho years ago — dominate to an extent that suggests a move to bigger league is on the cards.

No transfer fee has been suggested yet, and competition from Atalanta and Southampton has been rumoured, but should noises begin to emanate from more substantive sources than Betfair, O'Riley is a prospect that could fit the Reds' recruitment strategy.



https://liverpooloffside.sbnation.com/liverpool-fc-transfer-news/2024/7/23/24204720/rumour-mongering-reds-reunite-fulham-trio-elliott-carvalho-matt-oriley-celtic

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Wolves And Fulham Offered Colombia International
Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Wolves and Brighton have all been offered the services of a Colombia international.

Colombia talisman James Rodriguez is terminating his contract at Brazilian giants Sao Paulo and eyeing a return to Europe.

Agents are now swinging into action to find the former Real Madrid forward a new home and they are offering him around in the Premier League.

According to Portuguese sports daily O Jogo, James has been offered to Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest, Fulham, Wolves and Brighton.

James has played in the Premier League before when he had a spell at Everton, but struggled to make a big impact and soon struggled when Carlo Ancelotti left.

Whether any of the Premier League sides will show any interest in the forward, who is now 33 and most recently played in Qatar, Greece and Brazil remains to be seen.

James has interest from Spain, in the shape of Sevilla, and Italy from newly promoted Como.

His former club FC Porto have also been credited with interest, but it is claimed that the Dragons are not looking to sign him.

James played in all Colombia's games at the recent Copa America as they reached the final; he provided six assists and scored once.



https://insidefutbol.com/2024/07/23/aston-villa-nottingham-forest-wolves-and-fulham-offered-colombia-international/653241/