Friday Fulham Stuff - 31/07/26...

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Fulham sounded out for Matias Soule move this summer
Martin Guastadisegno, Matias Soule's agent, has intensified the efforts to secure a move away from Serie A club AS Roma this summer.

According to a report by Italian outlet Tuttosport, Fulham and Sunderland are interested in Matias Soule. The two Premier League clubs are eager to bolster their offensive units by signing a new wide attacker in the ongoing transfer window, and they have their sights set on the 23-year-old AS Roma winger.

However, per Tuttosport, while Fulham and Sunderland have registered their interest in Soule, they have yet to follow up on that by submitting a bid. So, Martin Guastadisegno, the player's agent has "intensified contacts" to discuss a possible move to the Premier League, with AS Roma demanding around €35 million to part ways with him.

How has Matias Soule fared at AS Roma?
Matias Soule has established himself as one of the most promising young wingers in Serie A since joining AS Roma from Juventus in July 2024. The 23-year-old graduated from the youth division at the Turin-based club but could not become a regular for their senior squad. However, joining AS Roma has turned things around for him.

The Argentine international was top-notch in the 2025/26 season, scoring seven goals and eight assists in 42 appearances across all competitions while playing his part in AS Roma's top-four finish in Serie A. Meanwhile, Soule's progress at the Italian club has stimulated interest from several well-known clubs, and a move to the Premier League may be on the cards.

Where will Soule ply his trade next season?
Matias Soule has been on Fulham's wishlist for over a year. The continued interest makes sense, as the Cottagers are combing the market for a wide attacker after parting ways with Harry Wilson as a free agent. The Welsh winger's departure has created a gaping hole in the Fulham attack, forcing them to seek a solution from the market.

Several candidates, including Franco Mastantuono, have emerged on the West London club's wishlist, with Soule remaining a central candidate. The Argentine winger's age profile makes him an attractive long-term option for Fulham, while his output in the 2025/26 season suggests he can become an immediate solution for Alvaro Arbeloa's team.

However, it is unclear if Fulham will be willing to meet AS Roma's €35 million valuation in the coming weeks. Additionally, another obstacle has emerged: per Tuttosport, Soule is also a target for AC Milan, with the Rossoneri "carefully evaluating his profile" for a summer move.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/30/fulham-sounded-out-for-matias-soule-move-this-summer/

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Report: Fulham close in on €30m Real Madrid midfield ace
Fulham Transfer Talks Step Up for Cesar Palacios as Real Madrid Double Deal Edges Closer

Fulham look to be moving with real intent in the transfer market, with The Athletic reporting that the club are advancing in talks with Real Madrid over attacking midfielder Cesar Palacios. It is a move that speaks volumes about the direction of travel at Craven Cottage under new head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, and it could be part of a fascinating double raid on his former club.

Palacios, 21, has emerged as the latest Madrid academy talent on Fulham's radar, with the report making clear that the clubs are also in advanced discussions over striker Gonzalo Garcia. Fulham's recruitment appears closely aligned with Arbeloa's knowledge of Madrid's system, and this is where the story becomes especially intriguing.

Palacios Deal Fits Fulham Rebuild
According to the original report, "Fulham are advancing in talks with Real Madrid over a move for attacking midfielder Cesar Palacios." That alone will excite supporters, particularly after Harry Wilson's summer departure following the expiry of his contract. Wilson was Fulham's top Premier League scorer last season, so replacing creativity and attacking threat has become a pressing task.

Palacios made his senior Real Madrid debut in January 2026 and went on to feature seven times for the first team, including five substitute appearances in La Liga. Those numbers only tell part of the story. Young players of his profile often need a clear pathway, and Fulham may be offering exactly that.

The report adds that "sources briefed on the deal, speaking on condition of anonymity to protect relationships, have expressed confidence that both signings will be completed by Fulham", which feels hugely significant. There is also the detail that both players are "keen to play in the Premier League under Arbeloa". That connection may prove decisive.

Real Madrid Clauses Could Shape Transfer
Real Madrid are expected to protect themselves in any agreement. As The Athletic explains, "Madrid are expected to negotiate a deal for Palacios that contains rights and clauses over any future sales." That has become a familiar strategy for elite clubs when allowing prized academy products to leave, particularly when they still believe there may be major upside ahead.

Talks are said to be centred on standard permanent deals for both Palacios and Garcia, rather than "50 per cent of the rights to the player", a structure Madrid have used before. That may suit Fulham, who will want clarity and control if they are investing seriously in emerging talent.

Garcia Move Adds More Ambition
The wider picture here is important. Fulham are not simply shopping for squad depth, they are trying to add high-upside talent with elite-level schooling. Garcia's potential fee underlines that point, with any move said to be "well above of €30million (£25.71m; $34.17m)." Mourinho reportedly likes the striker, but "cannot guarantee him a prominent role", and that opens the door for Fulham.

Arbeloa's arrival has already altered the mood around Fulham's recruitment. This feels smart, bold and well connected.

Our View
As a Fulham supporter, this is exactly the sort of report that gets the pulse racing. You want ambition in the market, and you want a clear idea behind it. Going into Real Madrid's academy pipeline with Arbeloa leading the way makes perfect sense. He knows the players, knows their character and knows who is ready for the next step. That gives Fulham an edge.

Palacios sounds like a brilliant fit. We have lost Harry Wilson, and replacing goals and invention was always going to be one of the biggest jobs of the summer. If Palacios can bring energy between the lines, technical quality and that fearless edge young Madrid players often have, then supporters will warm to him quickly.

The Garcia angle makes this even more exciting. Bringing in one highly rated talent is promising, bringing in two from a club like Real Madrid says Fulham mean business. It also suggests Arbeloa is not here to tread water. He wants to build something.

There is always risk when young players arrive from abroad, especially from an academy environment into the week-to-week intensity of the Premier League. But this feels like a calculated gamble rather than a hopeful one. If both deals get over the line, Fulham fans will have every right to believe this team can become more dynamic, more watchable and more dangerous this season.



https://eplindex.com/148882/report-fulham-close-in-on-e30m-real-madrid-midfield-ace.html

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Gonzalo Garcia open to Fulham move
Fulham will look to sign 22-year-old Spanish striker Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid this summer, and a big-money deal may be on the cards.

According to a report by Spanish outlet COPE, Gonzalo Garcia is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are keen on bolstering their offensive unit by signing a striker in the ongoing transfer window, and they have set their sights on the 22-year-old Real Madrid prospect.

Per COPE, Garcia is ready to leave Real Madrid to join Fulham during the off-season, thus boosting the West London club's prospects. Meanwhile, a report by MARCA has suggested that Real Madrid will demand €60 million to part ways with the Spaniard, with Fulham open to meeting that valuation, having "come very close" to the paying the price.

How has Gonzalo Garcia fared since his Real Madrid breakthrough?
Gonzalo Garcia is the latest prospect to graduate from Real Madrid's La Fabrica division. While the Merengues have not seen many academy graduates establish a foothold in the first-team squad, the youngsters have made their mark either at the club or elsewhere. However, Garcia has received some opportunities at the Santiago Bernebau since enjoying his breakthrough at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

Since then, the youngster has been a backup player, though he has already played 51 times, managing nearly 2,000 minutes of game time while chipping in with a healthy tally of 13 goals and five assists. Meanwhile, the Spanish striker's progress has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs, with Fulham among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League move on the horizon?
Fulham's interest in Gonzalo Garcia makes logical sense. The Cottagers are combing the market for a striker, as Raul Jimenez has called time on his stint at Craven Cottage by leaving as a free agent. Additionally, Rodrigo Muniz faces an uncertain future at the West London club amid his links with Flamengo.

That leaves Alvaro Arbeloa without a senior striker option, with Garcia emerging as Fulham's top summer target. The Spaniard's pace and finishing ability position him to make an immediate impact, while his age profile can turn him into a long-term solution.

However, Real Madrid's €60 million asking price seems expensive, yet MARCA reports Fulham will come close to that valuation, suggesting a summer move is on the cards. The Spanish attacker is willing to join the West London club, and a deal should materialise soon.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/30/gonzalo-garcia-open-to-fulham-move/

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Fulham 'closer to an agreement' for Gonzalo García – % and buyback an issue
Fulham are making advances to sign Real Madrid's Gonzalo García, after Álvaro Arbeloa identified him as a transfer target.

Two days ago, we relayed news that José Mourinho has given the green light for him to leave this summer.

On Wednesday, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain that the striker is now leaning towards Fulham.

This has seen the London club step up their efforts to secure his services.

Fulham prepared to overspend
Thursday's edition of AS claims the Premier League side are getting increasingly closer to signing the 22-year-old.

Both Real Madrid and Fulham are 'getting closer to an agreement' for Gonzalo García's permanent transfer.

The Spain international has a contract until 2030, and Transfermarkt value him at €30m. The La Liga giants are asking for the same figure, but for 50% of his rights... and could reach €60m for his full rights.

Fulham are ready to 'pay more than his asking price', mainly to please Álvaro Arbeloa. The manager knows Gonzalo from his time with Real Madrid's youth and first teams.

Main obstacle for Fulham
The frontman has been training under José Mourinho and taking his performances and attitude into account, Real Madrid want to maintain control over his future.

In short, Los Blancos only want to sell 50% of his rights to Fulham and secure a buyback clause. This is similar to what Madrid have done with multiple players in recent years. Perhaps the most notable is Como's Nico Paz.

However, the Premier League side, who have shown 'substantial interest', want 100% of the Spaniard's rights.

Álvaro Arbeloa wants to build a team around Gonzalo García and doesn't want the threat of losing him next summer or in 2028.

The difference in percentage and buyback rights is the main obstacle between the two clubs. There's belief the parties will come to an understanding soon.

The newspaper claims the clubs are 'getting closer to an agreement'. It remains to seen who will compromise in the end.

Key transfer points

    Two days ago, Mourinho gave the green light
    Gonzalo open to Premier League side's offer
    Real Madrid want to sell 50% of his rights
    Fulham want his full rights, ready to offer more



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-closer-to-an-agreement-for-gonzalo-garcia-and-buyback-an-issue/

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Fulham strike €70m agreement for Arbeloa target – Another big sale for club's finances
Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia is set to move to Fulham. The two clubs have agreed a €70m package for the youngster.

Cadena COPE report the Spanish giants and Fulham have reached an agreement for the transfer of the academy graduate. Madrid will also retain a 'preferential buy-back option'.

€70m deal
Reports throughout this week have indicated that Fulham were advancing in their efforts to sign the 22-year-old. He is a player manager Alvaro Arbeloa knows well.

Those efforts were handed a boost yesterday, with Sport Witness covering a report explaining that the striker was leaning towards joining Fulham this summer.  A separate report this morning indicated that a deal was close between the two clubs.

Cadena COPE now report that a €70m agreement is in place for García to join Fulham. That deal also includes a preferential buy-back option for the Spanish giants. This is likely a first refusal on signing the youngster in future if any clubs try to sign him from Fulham.

Interestingly there is no mention of Fulham only buying a percentage of García's rights, which had been prominent in talks over the last few weeks. Instead, they appear to have settled for just a buy-back option.

Real Madrid exits
At €70m, García will slot into the top five most expensive departures from Real Madrid in their history. That figure will reach the fee Manchester United paid for Casemiro in 2022.

It is also the latest departure from "La Fábrica" to bring money into the coffers. They had already been boosted by the sale of Nico Paz for €60m, Victor Muñoz (€20m) and other various players from their youth system.

It means the Spanish giants are unlikely to stop their pursuit of young talent around the world anytime soon. The benefits it brings down the line are clear.

For Fulham, it's a huge, club-record gamble on a player who Arbeloa clearly wants to build his team around and has faith in. It remains to be seen if that faith is justified.

UPDATE: Conflicting claims on price
Carrusel Deportivo are now reporting that instead of Fulham paying €70m for a full transfer, they've agreed a cheaper deal.

The Premier League club, according to these conflicting claims, will pay €40m. However, they would only get them 66% of Gonzalo Garcia's rights. That means Real Madrid would be entitled to 34% of a future transfer fee.

Cadena COPE have updated their own information and put it at €40m for 70%.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-strike-e70m-agreement-for-arbeloa-target-another-big-sale-for-clubs-finances/

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Real Madrid and Fulham finalise agreement on €80m double deal
Real Madrid are about to bring in yet another big piece of business, with striker Gonzalo Garcia about to leave for the Premier League. The 22-year-old has attracted strong interest from Alvaro Arbeloa's Fulham in recent weeks, and after several rounds of talks, a deal looks set to finally be completed.

Upon being appointed as Fulham head coach earlier in July, Arbeloa immediately set his sights on being reunited with Gonzalo. New Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has had reservations about parting ways with the La Fabrica graduate, whom he considers to be an essential profile for his squad, although an agreement has been reached in spite of this.

As per COPE, Real Madrid and Fulham have reached an agreement for Gonzalo. The Premier League side will pay €70m for the Spain international, which would be Los Blancos' biggest sale of the summer – beating the €60m they received upon selling Nico Paz back to Como after they activated his buy-back clause.

Crucially, Real Madrid have given up all of Gonzalo's rights in order to receive a bigger fee. Generally, they have sought to include buy-back and/or significant sell-on clauses when selling La Fabrica talents, but on this occasion, they will only have a right of first refusal.

Fulham also agree to sign Palacios for €10m
Minutes after the Gonzalo news was reported, Marca followed it up by confirming that Real Madrid and Fulham have also agreed a deal for midfielder Cesar Palacios. The 21-year-old, who featured 10 times for Los Blancos last season, has commanded a fee of €10m, and as part of the deal, 30% of his rights will also be staying at the Bernabeu.

Real Madrid are arguably the best sellers in world football, and this is another case of generating significant money from players that were not considered regular starters. This money can now be used towards Yan Diomande and Rodri, both of whom are closing in on moves to the Spanish capital before the end of the summer.



https://siempremadrid.com/real-madrid-and-fulham-finalise-agreement-on-e80m-double-deal/

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Real Madrid will receive €40 million for 70% of forward's rights as Fulham move edges closer
Earlier today, COPE in Spain reported that Real Madrid and Fulham had reached a total agreement for the transfer of Gonzalo Garcia.

The report claimed that the 21-year-old striker would move to Craven Cottage in a deal worth a massive €70 million, with the Premier League club buying full rights of the player and Los Blancos retaining a preferential buyback option.

€40 million for 70% rights
However, it has now emerged that the figures that were reported earlier were not entirely accurate.

As per the latest update from MARCA and confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, Fulham are buying only 70% of Gonzalo's economic rights and will pay Real Madrid a sum of €40 million in exchange.

https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2082800841208086975

Negotiations for Gonzalo had been progressing for several days, and the agreement has now been finalized.

Fulham are set to pay €40 million for 70% of the striker's registration rights, a valuation that closely matches Real Madrid's internal assessment of around €60 million for the player. There will be an additional €2 million in the form of bonuses.

Arbeloa gets his man
The striker had emerged as Fulham coach Alvaro Arbeloa's top priority after impressing the former Real Madrid defender and manager during his development in the academy.

Arbeloa had already shown strong faith in Gonzalo during his previous role at the Santiago Bernabeu and pushed hard to reunite with the striker in London.

Although Jose Mourinho has been pleased with Gonzalo's performances during pre-season, the player understood that regular first-team opportunities would be difficult to secure.

The imminent arrival of Yan Diomande and the return of Endrick from his loan spell at Lyon have increased competition in attack, while stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo and Brahim Diaz further limit available minutes.

Door left open for future return. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Faced with that competition, Gonzalo decided this was the right moment to pursue a project where he could play consistently.

Real Madrid retain some control
Although Gonzalo is leaving the Bernabeu, neither the player nor Real Madrid wanted to completely sever ties.

As such, the Merengues will retain 30% of his rights and secure preferential options to bring him back in the future, allowing the club to continue monitoring his development while benefiting financially from the transfer.

Fulham were keen to move away from the 50-50 ownership model that Real Madrid has often used with academy graduates.

By acquiring a larger stake, the London club gains greater control over the player while still allowing Real Madrid to maintain a significant interest in his future.



https://madriduniversal.com/real-madrid-will-receive-e40-million-for-70-of-forwards-rights-as-fulham-move-edges-closer/

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Released Dean Joins Fulham
Released Town Women's forward Rianna Dean has joined FAWNL Southern Premier Division Fulham following her Portman Road exit.
 Dean, 27, joined the Blues last summer and scored six goals in 24 appearances last season.

"It's really nice and really exciting," Dean said of her move. "Speaking to [manager] Steve [Jaye] and the ambition of the club, yeah, it was just sort of a no-brainer for me and where the club are going is something definitely I want to be part of.

"I think Fulham's massive, it's a massive club. The history of it and the way Steve's doing things here with the women's team and where they've come from and how they're doing things the right way and obviously being unbeaten for two years is incredible.

"I'm very passionate when I play. Hopefully I bring some goals. And yeah, I just sort of leave everything out there on the pitch, give my all. I like to press well, work hard and score loads of goals."

Elsewhere, former Blues midfielder Sarah Brasero has joined Spanish top-flight side Deportivo Alavés on loan from West Ham United until the end of the season.

The 21-year-old left Town in the summer of 2023 after three years, 43 appearances and seven goals having turned down the offer of a contract.



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/52427/released-dean-joins-fulham

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Fulham & Real Madrid agree €50m double deal as two young stars set to reunite with Alvaro Arbeloa at Premier League side
Fulham have successfully negotiated a stunning double swoop for Real Madrid starlets Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios in a deal worth a combined €50 million. The move sees two of La Fabrica's brightest talents head to West London to reunite with former Madrid youth coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who has prioritised the duo for his new project in the Premier League.

Arbeloa raids La Fabrica for €50m duo
The deal for Garcia is the headline move, with Fulham agreeing to pay €40m for 70 per cent of the player's rights. This structure allows Real Madrid to retain a stake in the forward's future, a common practice for the Spanish giants when offloading top academy graduates.

In addition to Garcia, Fulham are closing in on Palacios, another highly-rated youth product. The Premier League side will pay between €8m and €10m for 70 per cent of his rights. According to Marca, the agreement for Gonzalo is considered complete, while the final details for Palacios are expected to be finalised in the coming hours.

Why Garcia is leaving the Bernabeu
Despite impressing and scoring in a pre-season friendly against Leganes, Garcia found his path to the first team blocked by elite competition. The potential arrival of Yan Diomande, combined with Endrick returning from his loan spell at Lyon, left little room for the 22-year-old striker to earn regular minutes.

Garcia was already keen to leave his boyhood club this summer in search of a project that guarantees him a starring role. Having scored 30 goals in 73 appearances for Real Madrid Castilla, his pedigree as a finisher is well established. Arbeloa's presence at Fulham proved to be the deciding factor, with the manager determined to build a team around a player he knows intimately from their time together in the Spanish capital.

Palacios joins the London revolution
Palacios also arrives in London with a burgeoning reputation after a stellar campaign in the Spanish third tier. The midfielder had already decided it was time to leave Castilla to test himself at a higher level. While he received several offers from across Europe, the chance to work under Arbeloa again in the Premier League was an opportunity too good to turn down.

The statistics back up the excitement surrounding Palacios' arrival. He finished last season as the second-highest scorer in Group 1 of the Primera RFEF, having notched 16 goals and providing five assists. This clinical edge from midfield makes him a unique asset for Arbeloa's system.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/lists/fulham-real-madrid-agree-50m-double-transfer-alvaro-arbeloa-premier-league/blt6fab4755a89e3e43?utm_id=fa3iys5y8hyz9ezk&utm_source_platform=newsnow

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Fulham ready to go all out to beat Juventus to La Liga striker
Fulham are competing against Juventus to sign Gonzalo Garcia from Real Madrid this summer, and they are set to complete the move for his signature ahead of the Bianconeri.

Juve have been keen on signing Garcia over the last few seasons as they continue to search for a new striker to add to their squad. The Bianconeri have monitored his situation and remain interested in bringing him to Turin.

Fulham lead Juventus in race for Garcia
Last summer, Juventus attempted to sign Garcia, but after his superb Club World Cup campaign, Real Madrid decided to keep him in their squad for the season because Kylian Mbappe was not fully fit at the start of the campaign.

However, Garcia struggled for regular playing time afterwards, as the Frenchman is an undisputed starter at the club. This has made it difficult for the young striker to secure consistent opportunities, and he now faces another challenge to play regularly this season.

According to Tuttomercatoweb, Garcia could be allowed to leave, and Real Madrid want 60m euros for his signature. Fulham are currently the favourites to complete the transfer, with the London club pushing to secure an agreement.

Juventus face challenge in Garcia pursuit
Fulham's advantage comes from their manager, Alvaro Arbeloa, who was one of the coaches Garcia worked with at the Spanish club. The former defender is pushing to bring Garcia with him to the London side, which could make their offer more appealing.

This situation makes it harder for Juventus to complete the signing. The Bianconeri are also likely to face financial difficulties in meeting the 60m euros asking price that Real Madrid have placed on Garcia this summer.

The striker's future remains uncertain, but Fulham's interest and their connection with Arbeloa could give them a major advantage in the race. Juventus will need to find a way to compete if they want to secure his services.



https://talkjuve.com/2026/07/30/fulham-ready-to-go-all-out-to-beat-juventus-to-la-liga-striker/

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Fulham agree £34m fee with Real Madrid for Gonzalo García, deal for César Palacios also close - sources
Real Madrid have agreed a deal with Fulham for forward Gonzalo García to join the Premier League club, sources have told ESPN, and are close to another which will see midfielder César Palacios make the same move.

García, 22, made his Spain debut this year and is one of LaLiga's most promising young forwards -- having first impressed with Madrid at last summer's Club World Cup -- while central midfielder Palacios, 21, is a Spain youth international.

Both are highly rated by Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa, who took charge at Craven Cottage this summer after half a season as first-team coach at the Bernabéu.

Fulham will pay a €40 million (£34m/$46m) fee for García, sources said.

Later on Thursday, Madrid announced the signing of Levante forward Carlos Espí, 21, as a replacement for García.

The club had previously tracked Espí at youth level.

García scored six goals in 952 LaLiga minutes last season -- with opportunities in the team limited due to the form of Kylian Mbappé -- after netting four times at the 2025 Club World Cup.

Arbeloa also coached both García and Palacios when in charge of Madrid's youth team, Real Madrid Castilla.



https://www.espn.co.uk/football/story/_/id/49488247/fulham-agree-deal-gonzalo-garcia-real-madrid-34-million-cesar-palacios

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Fulham strike stunning double deal with Real Madrid: report
Fulham boss Alvaro Arbeloa will be reunited with former Real Madrid duo in the Premier League

Former Real Madrid player and coach Arbeloa worked with a number of the club's junior teams and is understood to be the driving force behind Fulham's swoop to replace attacking midfielder Harry Wilson and striker Raul Jimenez.

The Cottagers are closing in on Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios in a deal worth a total in the region of £43 million, the bulk of which is attributable to 22-year-old Garcia. Both players will be subject to a 30 percent sell-on clause.

Fulham and Real Madrid agree double deal
"All being well, the pair will follow head coach Alvaro Arbeloa to Craven Cottage from the Spanish capital," reports The Athletic.

"Garcia and Palacios are set to become the first new arrivals of the summer, following Swedish forward Jonah Kusi-Asare, who joined on a permanent basis from Bayern Munich after spending the 2025-26 season on loan at Craven Cottage.

"The Portuguese liked the player but was not able to guarantee a prominent role in the team next season as it stands, leaving the choice on his future up to Garcia."

Garcia won his first senior cap in Spain's World Cup warm-up match against Iraq in June and has gradually been making an impression at the Bernabeu. He was a regular scorer for Real Madrid B and leaves the club with 13 first-team goals to his name.

He made 39 appearances in all competitions last term, scoring eight times. The young striker started twice in the Champions League and nine times in La Liga but has little hope of playing regularly with Kylian Mbappe ahead of him.

Palacios, valued at under £10 million by the reported agreement, has been at Real Madrid since 2020 and played primarily for the B side last season. He featured in seven senior matches for Real Madrid in 2025-26, all of them under Arbeloa.

Fulham's first new signings mark a step in the right direction at the height of a difficult summer.

Their Premier League status has been rock-solid since Marco Silva took over as manager but the call of Benfica proved too tempting to resist for the Lisbon-born gaffer, who succeeded Mourinho at the Estadio da Luz in June.

Jimenez returned to Wolverhampton Wanderers and Harry Wilson switched to Leeds United, both on free transfers. Defender Issa Diop joined Ipswich Town for a reported fee of around £8.5 million.

The Cottagers' Premier League campaign gets underway with a Monday night home fixture against retooled local rivals Chelsea on August 24.



https://www.fourfourtwo.com/transfer/fulham-agree-bumper-double-transfer-deal-with-real-madrid-report

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Fulham agree double deal for Real Madrid starlets after Alvaro Arbeloa request
Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios will trade the Bernabeu for Craven Cottage

Fulham have agreed a double deal for Real Madrid duo Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios.

Standard Sport understands that Fulham will pay a total fee of around £42.8million. Garcia will cost in the region of £34.3m, while the west London club will part with around £8.5m for Palacios.

Real Madrid will retain a 30 per cent sell-on clause for both players, who both came through the club's academy before breaking into the first team.

Alvaro Arbeloa worked extensively with Garcia and Palacios while manager of Real Madrid Castilla, and he was keen to raid his former club to bring the pair to Craven Cottage.

Arbeloa was named interim manager of Real Madrid's first team in January 2026 following the departure of Xabi Alonso.

During that time, he handed Garcia a number of first-team opportunities, ultimately culminating in the 22-year-old earning his first and to date only senior Spain cap in a 1-1 draw with Iraq in April 2026.

Fulham have been in the market for another striker to provide competition for Rodrigo Muniz, and Arbeloa identified Garcia as one of his top targets during discussions with the club's board.

Real Madrid had initially told Fulham they did not intend to sell Garcia, but that stance softened this week, and Fulham re-entered negotiations, having briefly moved on to other targets.

Palacios, meanwhile, will provide competition in central midfield, with Sasa Lukic potentially on the move to Ipswich Town.

Standard Sport understands that Ipswich have Lukic high on their list of potential midfield targets, though they have yet to enter club-to-club talks with Fulham over a deal.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/garcia-palacios-fulham-real-madrid-transfer-latest-b1291881.html

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Real Madrid 'Sell' Two Gems to Alvaro Arbeloa's Fulham—And They Might Regret It
José Mourinho's roster rebuild at the Bernabéu is under full swing.

Real Madrid have reportedly agreed to sell back-up striker Gonzalo García and Castilla gem César Palacios to Fulham for a combined fee of $57.4 million (€50 million).

The two players, who were always going to struggle for minutes at the Bernabéu next season, are set to reunite with former boss Álvaro Arbeloa at Craven Cottage. The Spaniard worked with both Palacios and Gonzalo in Real Madrid's youth system and then when he took over the first team in the wake of Xabi Alonso's departure.

The Athletic report the agreed upon deals value Gonzalo at $46.1 million (€40 million) and Palacios at $11.5 million (€10 million). They also include a 30% sell-on clause for each player.

The two players are "keen" on following their former manager to the Premier League, where they would become Fulham's first two new arrivals this summer. Swedish forward Jonah Kusi-Asare also permanently joined the club after a loan stint from Bayern Munich last season.

Why Real Madrid Are Suddenly Willing to Sell Gonzalo
European clubs had circled around Gonzalo since his breakout campaign at the Club World Cup last summer, but Real Madrid were unwilling to part ways with the No. 9 who drew comparisons to club legend Raúl.

Yet both Alonso and Arbeloa limited Gonzalo's minutes last season. The striker started just nine La Liga games and was not even the first-choice to replace the injured Kylian Mbappé toward the latter half of 2025–26; instead, Brahim Díaz started up top alongside with Vinícius Júnior, leaving Gonzalo to spend more time on the bench.

Despite his lack of playing time, the Castilla standout scored eight goals last season, six of which came in La Liga. He routinely showcased his clinical finishing and expert positioning, along with his high work-rate when the opportunities came—but there were few, and that was without Endrick in the mix.

The Brazilian teenager is now back at the Bernabéu, donning the iconic No. 9 shirt after a successful loan at Lyon. Endrick recorded eight goals and eight assists in 21 appearances with the French outfit, and is poised to be Mbappé's back-up next season under José Mourinho.

Keeping Gonzalo as the third-favored striker no longer made enough sense for Los Blancos, especially when Fulham are willing to pay $46.1 million.

Will Real Madrid Regret Letting Gonzalo Go?
The deal makes sense on paper, especially since Gonzalo is just a 22-year-old with a desire to log consistent minutes and progress his career under a manager he knows and trusts. The transfer also helps Real Madrid bring in some money amid reports of Yan Diomande arriving for a club-record $153.8 million (€135 million) fee.

Yet in the long-term, Los Blancos just might rue the decision to let Gonzalo go. For all of Mbappé and Vinícius Jr's exploits, the team struggled to score goals last season. In 2026, Real Madrid only scored more than two goals in eight of their 31 matches.

The team desperately missed a natural No. 9 to get on the end of Trent Alexander-Arnold's crosses or make dangerous runs into the box. Real Madrid's attack was painfully one-dimensional with Vinícius Jr taking on three defenders down the left flank while Mbappé too often hovered at the top of the box.

Endrick will now be available to come off the bench and lead the line if Mourinho's side needs a late goal in a deadlocked game, but the Brazil international does not boast the strength or physicality Gonzalo brings.

It wouldn't be at all surprising if the 15-time European champions turned back to the transfer market to sign an experienced, natural No. 9 to avoid the problems they have encountered ever since Joselu left.



https://www.si.com/soccer/real-madrid-sell-two-gems-alvaro-arbeloa-fulham-might-regret-it

[WhiteJC]

Fulham have just pulled off a £45m double raid on Real Madrid
Fulham are set to raid Real Madrid for two players in a deal worth almost £45m as the Premier League side continue their ambitious summer recruitment drive.

West London executives have reached full agreement with the Spanish giants for young starlets Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios, securing two of La Fabrica's most promising talents ahead of the new season.

Ben Jacobs: Fulham agree deal for Real Madrid duo
Transfer expert Ben Jacobs confirmed on X that Fulham have agreed terms for both players. 21-year-old midfielder Cesar Palacios is set to complete his move for around £8.5m, while forward
Gonzalo Garcia arrives in a headline deal valued close to £35m.

Real Madrid are expected to retain a 30 percent sell-on clause for both academy graduates.

The decisive force behind this double acquisition is new Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa. The former Real Madrid defender and youth coach worked extensively with both Garcia and Palacios during his time in Spain.

    Fulham have agreed two deals with Real Madrid.Cesar Palacios set to join for around £8.5m. Gonzalo Garcia also agreed for close to £35m. Both moves driven by Alvaro Arbeloa.

Having coached them through their developmental years, Arbeloa personally prioritized the pair as essential additions to spearhead his new project at Craven Cottage.

His intimate knowledge of their abilities and personal relationship with the players proved key in convincing them to swap Madrid for West London.

How Fulham are expected to play under Arbeloa
Arbeloa replaced Marco Silva and his style of play focuses on high-intensity pressing, fluid positional interchange, and technical proficiency
in possession.

Having observed both starlets excel in his system at youth level, Arbeloa plans to integrate Garcia immediately into his attacking line to provide dynamic movement and competition for Rodrigo Muniz.

Meanwhile, Palacios is slated to operate as an energetic central midfielder capable of driving forward from deep and dictating tempo.

Under Arbeloa's guidance, Fulham are set to adopt a proactive, modern style of play designed to dominate space and unleash their technical young talent.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2026/07/30/fulham-agree-45m-real-madrid-gonzalo-garcia-cesar-palacios/

[WhiteJC]

Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios set to join Fulham as double deal agreed
ulham are on the verge of an impressive double deal to sign Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios from Real Madrid

Fulham have agreed a double deal to sign Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios from Real Madrid, according to The Athletic. Both players have made solid impacts in what has been described as their breakthrough season and are now set to play Premier League football under the management of former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa.

Fulham are intent on building a strong enough squad to help the club evolve to the next level. The club were considering various possibilities heading into the summer window, but they have made some bold yet swift decisions in certain areas, starting with the appointment of former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa.

Of late, the Cottagers have been progressing in talks for the two young stars from Real Madrid, and the moves have now been agreed. Palacios was a signing that Arbeloa reportedly pushed for, signalling the manager's influence over recruitment strategy at Fulham.

Details of the double deal
Starting with Garcia, Fulham are paying a fixed fee of €40 million, with a further €2 million in future add-ons, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. Real Madrid hold a 30% sell-on clause and matching rights on both players, though Fulham have retained meaningful control over the pair's futures.

Palacios was a signing that Arbeloa reportedly pushed for, and the attacking midfielder is set to arrive for a €10 million fee. Once again, Real Madrid hold a 30% sell-on clause and matching rights, as the Cottagers will hope to develop the pair into major talents for the future.

Where do the €50 million duo fit in?
Fulham lost key attacking talent at the start of the summer, with Harry Wilson joining Leeds United on a free transfer and Raúl Jimenez rejoining Wolves. Garcia, who scored seven goals in 35 appearances for Real Madrid last season across all competitions, is set to compete for the striker role vacated by Jimenez's departure.

Palacios, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder, will compete with Emile Smith Rowe and Josh King for minutes in the same role, with the flexibility to play on the left wing giving Arbeloa additional tactical options.

The €50 million duo represent significant additions to Fulham's attacking arsenal and should provide genuine competition across the attacking lines under the former Real Madrid manager.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/31/gonzalo-garcia-and-cesar-palacios-set-to-join-fulham-as-double-deal-agreed/

[WhiteJC]

Alvaro Arbeloa is set to help Real Madrid develop one of their best long-term prospects
Real Madrid's youth academy rarely gets the praise it deserves, but as of late, more and more people are seeing the light and noticing how much talent the club actually has in its ranks.

It is obvious that La Masia takes the limelight many times, partly because they produce some of the best players in the world, but also because those players actually get to play for Barcelona for one reason or the other.

With Real Madrid, it's a bit different because they always produce some really good players, but many, if not all, do not actually get to play that many games for the first team.

This has been true for a while now, but last season saw something different with Álvaro Arbeloa. He gave opportunities to a lot of young players like Thiago Pitarch, Manuel Ángel, César Palacios, and many others who tried their best to solidify a position in the lineup for the first team.

Cesar Palacios' move to Fulham will be great for his development
At this point in time, there is no one who has been promoted from Castilla to the first team, but that does not mean these players are not talented. Real Madrid have produced some of the most talented players in their recent history, and not being able to play for Real Madrid doesn't mean they're not good enough to play for any other top teams in Europe.

For Palacios, that is certainly the case, as he is set for a move to Fulham - along with Gonzalo Garcia where Arbeloa currently is the manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Palacios is a brilliant talent who had a really good season with Castilla in 2025-26. He scored 15 goals and provided four assists, taking his level to a really high standard after his terrible injury a couple of years ago.

Palacios also made some really good impressions when he played for the first team in a few appearances. He looked very confident and very smooth with the way he kept the ball. His link-up play was really good, and his off-ball movement was also very impressive.

It may not have been enough for Real Madrid to keep him around, but the nearly 22-year-old was always going to have options of playing in the top leagues in Europe. The Premier League is definitely up there, and Arbeloa, who has been an obvious fan of Palacios in the last few years, would certainly improve him even more.

Palacios is one of the best players that has come out of the academy in recent times, and Arbeloa would actually be doing Real Madrid a favor by taking him on and developing him even more than he was able to at the club last season.

No one knows what Palacios' ceiling is. Maybe he turns out to be another Nico Paz and becomes a brilliant player for Fulham in the next couple of years. Maybe his ceiling is a bit lower, but even then, more minutes, especially in a league as competitive and physical as the Premier League, would only help Palacios gain confidence and improve his abilities as a football player.

Arbeloa has had an effect on him at Real Madrid, and now he will also be doing the club a favor by helping him, watching him grow into a much better version of himself.

It remains to be seen how much Fulham actually pay for Palacios and when the deal gets done, but if it is getting closer, it's definitely a good sign.



https://therealchamps.com/alvaro-arbeloa-is-set-to-help-real-madrid-develop-one-of-their-best-long-term-prospects-01kync3pyt48

[WhiteJC]

just a quick reminder
I'll off for a family long(ish) weekend   so there will not be any "news" Saturday, Sunday or Monday.

all things being equal I should be back with the news Tuesday 4th

[bog]

Enjoy your weekend with your family Sir.