Friday Fulham Stuff - 14/08/26...

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Newcastle United front-runners to sign Amar Dedic as talks held to beat Everton, Fulham
Newcastle United are in advanced talks to sign Benfica right-back Amar Dedic in a €30 million deal, with Everton and Fulham also interested.

Amar Dedic is attracting considerable interest from Premier League clubs, with TEAMtalk reporting that Newcastle United are leading the race. Everton and Fulham have also been mentioned as interested parties, with both clubs seeking a new right-back, although the Magpies appear to be further ahead in their pursuit of the Benfica star.

The Bosnian defender has spent one season with Benfica, making 43 appearances across all competitions from right-back and contributing five goals and six assists.

However, he could be heading away from the Lisbon giants after only one season, with at least three Premier League clubs making their interest known. According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle United are the club furthest ahead, which the TEAMtalk report also reiterates, as discussions over a €30 million move continue.

Newcastle United favourites for Dedic
The most obvious reason for Newcastle United's advantage in the race for Dedic is that the Bosnian previously worked briefly under new Magpies boss Matthias Jaissle at Red Bull Salzburg.

With Kieran Trippier joining Wolves and Valentino Livramento sidelined by injury, Newcastle United's right-back depth is critically thin. However, the Tyneside club's primary objective is to find the right player for the right-back position.

Despite conflicting claims about the price, with O Jogo via Sport Witness reporting that the starting figure could be €35 million, it appears that the deal might be concluded for €30 million. Dedic reportedly has a €50 million release clause, but clubs will naturally look to negotiate a considerably lower fee, as appears to be the case with Newcastle United's pursuit of the Bosnian.

Everton and Fulham unlikely to move
Everton and Fulham are also understood to be in the market for a new right-back. In the case of the Toffees, they have reportedly been linked with veteran Kyle Walker, while there has also been significant interest in Celtic's Alistair Johnston.

Fulham are reportedly targeting Barcelona's Hector Fort for the right-back position and may also have shown interest in Dedic alongside Everton. Newcastle remain favourites to complete the signing, with talks understood to be at an advanced stage.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/08/13/newcastle-united-front-runners-to-sign-amar-dedic-as-talks-held-to-beat-everton-fulham/

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Premier League pre-season friendly descends into chaos with a penalty taken against an OPEN GOAL after Fulham walked off in row over new manager Alvaro Arbeloa's red card
Fulham's friendly with Malaga on Wednesday night was that in name only after an acrimonious ending after the full-time whistle, which included new manager Alvaro Arbeloa being sent off.

The Cottagers drew 2-2 at their Spanish opponents - with the hosts claiming a draw courtesy of Eneko Jauregi's 90th-minute penalty after Calvin Bassey was penalised for a handball.

However, that's where the drama started...

With the match ending in a draw, Malaga's players were preparing for a penalty shootout to determine who would win the Costa del Sol Trophy.

But there was one sticking point... Fulham's players were not and instead headed down the tunnel, sparking boos from the home supporters.

It led to some confusion on the pitch as Eneko picked up the ball and rolled a penalty into an empty net to ironic celebrations from him and his team-mates and the majority of the 17,179 fans inside La Rosaleda.

After the match Fulham released a statement explaining why they didn't partake in the shootout, writing on X: 'Thank you for your excellent support in Malaga this evening!

'We can confirm that prior to the match, both teams agreed that there would not be a penalty shootout in the event of a draw.'

According to beIN Sports, Fulham also didn't get involved in a shootout as it could affect their travel plans.

If that incident wasn't enough there was also the small matter of Arbeloa's dismissal who was unhappy with the referee at full-time.

As official Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias blew for the end of the game, Arbeloa made a beeline for him before being shown a red card.

Spanish outlet Marca was damning of Arbeloa and Fulham's actions, writing: 'This was a deplorable act of disrespect and an unprecedented lack of respect in the history of the Malaga friendly.

'During the break to decide who would take the penalties, Arbeloa clashed with referee Ortiz Arias and was shown a straight red card.

'Amid the ensuing chaos, Fulham decided to leave the field and refuse to participate in the penalty shootout, in one of the most embarrassing incidents in the history of football in Malaga.'



https://www.dailymail.com/sport/football/article-16049261/Fulham-friendly-against-Malaga-descends-chaos-new-manager-Alvaro-Arbeloa-sent-Premier-League-refuse-penalty-shootout.html

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El Mala turns down Fulham and AC Milan with Dortmund as his sole focus
Bild reports that Said El Mala has rejected interest from Fulham and AC Milan, with the Köln youngster determined to join Borussia Dortmund.

Amid growing confidence that Said El Mala will join Borussia Dortmund from 1. FC Köln, the youngster's entourage has reportedly turned down approaches from two other clubs.

According to Bild, AC Milan and Fulham have both seen their interest rejected by the 19-year-old's camp.

El Mala is already said to have agreed personal terms with Borussia Dortmund on a contract running until 2031, but BVB have so far been unable to reach an agreement with Köln over a transfer fee.

The Black and Yellows are reportedly preparing a new offer, which could be worth up to €55 million including bonuses – a fee that Köln is expected to accept.



https://bulinews.com/mala-turns-down-fulham-and-milan-dortmund-his-sole-focus

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The FFC Rumour Mill: Shea Charles arrives and Sasa Lukic departs
Jack Stroudley sums up another week of the transfer window

We're getting closer and closer to that curtain-raiser against Chelsea and the squad seems to be nearing completion. We still need a few bodies in but it's quite refreshing that Fulham have sorted out key positions at this stage of the window. It's exciting, but there's still work to do - here's how the land lies.

Incomings
Starting with a confirmed arrival, Fulham announced the signing of Shea Charles on Tuesday morning from Southampton. The 22-year-old midfielder has signed for a reported £26.7m with add-ons taking it to £30m in a five-year-deal that has an option of a sixth.

I wrote an article on Charles on Monday which I'd recommend checking if you want to know more about the Northern Irishman, but I'm very excited.

Another midfielder who's been continuously linked in recent weeks is Thiago Pitarch, but that interest appears to have cooled following the signing of Charles. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Real Madrid are planning to keep Pitarch around. I don't think this will be the last we hear of this rumour, if Madrid get another midfielder, you'd imagine Fulham will reassess this at the end of the window.

Looking at bit further back, Standard Sport have reported that Rennes defender Abdelhamid Ait Boudal is keen on a move to Fulham following a £20m bid that was rejected about 10 days ago. Rennes manager Franck Haise has come out and said that the Moroccan international is not for sale but FootMercato have claimed that Fulham are preparing a second bid for the 20 year old.

Other defensive options have been mentioned this week and unsurprisingly, Fulham are targeting Spain. Jack Kelly and FulhamTransfer have reported that an enquiry has been made for Real Madrid's 18-year-old central defender Joan Martinez.

At full-back, Fulham are also looking at FC Barcelona's Hector Fort and have made contact. They've also enquired about West Ham defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka according to SkySports with Fulham looking at a loan for the right-back.

According to Dave Kidd of Saturday White Fever, Fulham are in the market for another five players and are targeting GK, RB, CB, CM as well as a winger. There's also a potential departure according to Dave, which I'll discuss in a bit.

Outgoings
A few confirmed departures this week starting with Sasa Lukic who has joined Issa Diop at Ipswich Town for a reported £9m.

I understand why some people would be frustrated by this, but similarly to Diop, Lukic was in the final year of his deal. Fulham have got back pretty much the entire fee they paid for the Serbian and have already replaced him with Charles. In my opinion, it's good business for all parties.

According to Dave Kidd, the potential departing player is Timothy Castagne. Watch this space on that one.

Elsewhere, youngster Farhaan Ali Wahid has joined National League promotion chasers Boreham Wood on loan for the season.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/the-ffc-rumour-mill-shea-charles

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Everton pushed ahead of Liverpool and Fulham to sign fullback
Everton, Liverpool and Fulham are poised to battle it out for Barcelona's Héctor Fort this summer.

Sport report there's 'strong interest' in the right-back from both England and Italy.

Everton, Liverpool and Fulham keen
Everton, Liverpool and Fulham are his suitors from the Premier League, and are likely to have an easy route.

Inter Milan have identified the 20-year-old as an alternative to Djed Spence.

However, Spence is moving to the San Siro after the Serie A side reached an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur. This leaves the three English clubs, who are all keen, to fight for Héctor Fort's signature.

Everton ahead of PL rivals
Two days ago, Sport Witness covered claims from Spain that Álvaro Arbeloa's side held talks with the player's agent and Barcelona. His desire is to continue at the Camp Nou and that clashes with the La Liga winners' plans.

Héctor Fort graduated from Barcelona's academy and has played 30 matches for the first team. Last season, he was on loan at Elche CF, where he didn't enjoy regular minutes.

Hansi Flick has left him out of his plans and the Catalan club have decided to part ways with the defender this summer.

Therefore, Fort isn't training with the rest of the group, instead working separately with Barca players who are on the exit ramp. The Spain U20 international has now accepted he has to leave and won't be short of options.

Everton, Liverpool and Fulham have all shown interest, and among them, the Toffees could submit the 'most attractive offer'. The newspaper doesn't give any further clarification on why David Moyes' side are ahead.

The Blaugrana are looking to sell and secure a high sell-on percentage.

Key transfer points

    Fulham made contact, Everton and Liverpool join race
    Toffees could submit attractive offer
    Fort now accepts his departure, training alone
    Barca prefer sale, no mention of price



https://sportwitness.co.uk/everton-pushed-ahead-of-liverpool-and-fulham-to-sign-fullback/

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Fulham leave pitch as Malaga take penalty into empty net
Fulham's pre-season friendly against Malaga ended in bizarre fashion on Wednesday, with the Spaniards taking a penalty into an empty net as Alvaro Arbeloa's side headed down the tunnel.

Malaga equalised in the last minute of normal time, when defender Calvin Bassey was penalised for a handball that allowed Eneko Jauregi to convert from the penalty spot to make it 2-2.

But that was only the start of the chaos.

Former Real Madrid boss Arbeloa was sent off for seemingly remonstrating with the referee at full-time but he headed straight down the tunnel with the rest of his players, who believed that the match was over.

But La Liga side Malaga were expecting a penalty shootout to follow, and remained on the pitch ready to decide the winner of the Costa del Sol Trophy.

With fans awaiting a shootout, striker Jauregi placed the ball on the spot and converted into an empty net before celebrating with his team-mates in front of the home support at Malaga's Estadio La Rosaleda ground in southern Spain.

Fulham maintain both sides agreed the match would end without a shootout should it end in a draw.

"We can confirm that prior to the match, both teams agreed that there would not be a penalty shootout in the event of a draw," Fulham wrote on X.

In a post-match report on Malaga's website, the La Liga club wrote: "Although a penalty shootout had been scheduled, Fulham left the pitch, claiming that a shootout had not been included in the contract."

Fulham conclude their pre-season preparations against Stuttgart on Saturday.

Their first match of the 2026-27 Premier League season kicks off against Chelsea at Craven Cottage at 20:00 BST on Monday, 24 August,



https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cz052j8x9x1o

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Fulham refuse to participate in penalty shoot-out after Alvaro Arbeloa red card
Fulham issued a statement after their players walked off the pitch to boos following the friendly with Malaga.

Fulham's penultimate pre-season friendly before the new Premier League season ended with their manager sent off and their players loudly booed.

The Cottagers took on newly-promoted La Liga side Malaga Rosaleda stadium in a match where the Costa del Sol Trophy was up for grabs.

The game finished 2-2, with both Alex Iwobi and Ryan Sessegnon on target for Fulham. Eneko Jauregi scored a late equaliser from the spot for the hosts following a controversial handball decision against Calvin Bassey.

Fulham's penultimate pre-season friendly before the new Premier League season ended with their manager sent off and their players loudly booed.

The Cottagers took on newly-promoted La Liga side Malaga Rosaleda stadium in a match where the Costa del Sol Trophy was up for grabs.

The game finished 2-2, with both Alex Iwobi and Ryan Sessegnon on target for Fulham. Eneko Jauregi scored a late equaliser from the spot for the hosts following a controversial handball decision against Calvin Bassey.

Malaga players decided to make light of the situation, with Jauregi lining up and taking a penalty in empty net - his teammates mobbing him as fans celebrated.

The Andalusian side then lifted the trophy and posed for pictures. With the incredible confusion, Fulham put out an official statement on their X account where they said both teams had agreed that no shoot-out was to take place.

The club commented: "Thank you for your excellent support in Malaga this evening! We can confirm that prior to the match, both teams agreed that there would not be a penalty shootout in the event of a draw."

Malaga also weighed in the drama on their official website as they gave a very different review.

The La Liga club wrote: "Although a penalty shootout had been scheduled, Fulham left the pitch, claiming that a shootout had not been included in the contract. Málaga CF were therefore crowned champions of the XXXVI Costa del Sol Cervezas Victoria Cup."

Fulham take on Bundesliga side VFB Stuttgart in a friendly at Craven Cottage on Saturday before they kick off the new Premier League campaign with a derby clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday 24 August.

It's been a summer of change for Fulham following the departure of Marco Silva, with the likes of Harry Wilson, Issa Diop and Sasa Lukic also moving on.

In terms of incomings, Arbeloa has brought in two talented young players from former club Real Madrid in the form of striker Gonzalo Garcia and Cesar Palacios, as well as securing the signing of Shea Charles from Southampton for a fee of £30 million.

He has become the most expensive Northern Irish footballer of all time after penning a five-year deal.



https://www.sportbible.com/football/football-news/fulham-alvaro-arbeloa-malaga-penalty-shootout-premier-league-302743-20260813

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Fulham in contact over Gladbach defender as Bournemouth also circle
Fulham have reportedly made contact over a potential move for Joe Scally, with Bournemouth also said to be interested in the USMNT international, who is expected to leave Borussia Mönchengladbach this summer.

With one year left on his contract with Borussia Mönchengladbach, Joe Scally is widely expected to leave the Bundesliga club during the summer transfer window.

The US international already hinted at a summer departure in an interview with Bulinews back in May, saying:

"I love the club, but it's no secret that I would love to experience something different at some point in my career. I think every player has their wishes and what they want to do."

According to Bild, Scally is dreaming of a move to the Premier League and has "no future" at Gladbach, with the German tabloid's report backed up by Kicker, who also reports that the 23-year-old is one of the players who could leave Borussia-Park.

Fussballdaten.de, meanwhile, reports that Fulham have made "indirect contact" with the player's representatives to gather information about Scally's contract demands.

The report also mentions Bournemouth as suitors, but neither Premier League club has made an offer for Scally yet, with Die Fohlen reportedly asking for around €10 million for the full-back.



https://bulinews.com/fulham-contact-over-gladbach-defender-bournemouth-circle

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Arbeloa sent off and Fulham walks off before penalty shootout in preseason game against Malaga
MALAGA, Spain (AP) - Fulham's preseason match against Malaga turned out to be not too friendly when the English club walked off and coach Álvaro Arbeloa was red-carded for complaining with the referees.

La Liga host Malaga scored a 90th-minute equalizer for 2-2. Malaga said a penalty shootout was scheduled. Fulham said there wasn't. Malaga kicked a penalty into an open net and claimed the Costa del Sol trophy on Wednesday.

Fulham said on X: "We can confirm that prior to the match, both teams agreed that there would not be a penalty shootout in the event of a draw."

Former Real Madrid coach Arbeloa was sent off for arguing with the officiating crew at the end of the match.

Malaga said a penalty shootout was scheduled but "Fulham left the pitch claiming that a shootout had not been included in the contract."



https://www.dailymail.com/wires/ap/article-16049673/Arbeloa-sent-Fulham-walks-penalty-shootout-preseason-game-against-Malaga.html

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Dallas backs Charles to thrive at Fulham
Former Northern Ireland international Stuart Dallas feels Shea Charles' record-breaking move to the Premier League is "a good signing for Fulham and a good move for Shea".

Charles became the most expensive Northern Ireland footballer this week after completing a £30m switch from Southampton to Craven Cottage.

The 22-year-old began his career with Manchester City before moving to Championship club Southampton, also spending a season on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.

During last season's ill-fated play-off campaign for the Saints, Charles' injury-time winner in the semi-final against Middlesbrough initially sent them to the final, only for them to be subsquently disqualified because of the 'spygate' affair.

His performances did not go unnoticed and the midfielder, who has won 35 Northern Ireland caps, will get his opportunity to star at the top level of English football with Dallas confident he can do just that.

"It is a big jump from the Championship to the Premier League - the gap is huge - but Shea is coming from good stock in Manchester City, so he's been in and around it," Dallas told BBC Sport NI.

"Shea has real quality. He's a very good footballer, intelligent and wants to learn, so it's a good signing for Fulham and a good fit for Shea - I hope he does well."

'NI have built their team around Charles'
Dallas, who made 248 appearances for Leeds United in a 10-season spell at Elland Road, insists Charles' performances at club and international level have proven "he can play Premier League football".

Now an established international, Dallas has noted how Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill has "built the team around him in recent years".

"There are other players there like Conor Bradley and Trai Hume, but Shea in the middle of the park is the nucleus of the team and Michael has focused around that," Dallas continued.

"I think back to the Italy game [World Cup play-off] when he ran the show for 60 minutes and if you put him in the Italian side, he wouldn't have looked out of place, so that speaks volumes of his performances.

"There's still improvement in him, he's still young and has played a lot of games at Championship level, so hopefully he can kick on and go to a new level."

'Galbraith can kick on in natural position'
Charles is not the only Northern Ireland star to have made a move this summer with Ethan Galbraith swapping Swansea for Stoke on an undisclosed fee.

The 25-year-old impressed for The Swans last season after joining from Leyton Orient, scoring three goals in 39 appearances where he was mostly utilised at right-back.

However, the Glengormley native is perhaps more comfortable in midfield or on the wing and Dallas is confident he too can thrive in a new environment.

"He's a really talented footballer and when he is on the ball, he makes things happen and has shown a different role with Northern Ireland at times - he's able to play out wide and drift in, able to play deep and dictate things," Dallas said of Galbraith who has won 11 caps.

"He's gone to Stoke and will have ambitions of playing at the highest level, but it's important he enjoys his football and plays regularly.

"He played a lot at right-back with Swansea but hopefully he gets to show more of what he is about in his stronger position."



https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cwym2e2egz3o

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Fulham enter the race for Barcelona player who Everton are frontrunners to sign

Here is a fact-based summary of the story contents:

Fulham have now entered contention to sign FC Barcelona defender Hector Fort, but Everton are leading the race for his signature.

With Timothy Castagne's contract set to expire at the end of next season, the Cottagers have set out to sign a new right-back, and Fort has emerged as a target, after picking up two goals and two assists in 14 La Liga matches on loan at Elche last season.

Hector Fort's La Liga statistics in 2025-26

    482 minutes played
    12 tackles
    6 interceptions
    10 clearances
    19 recoveries
    4 goal involvements

Just 20-years-old, the youngster is yet to establish himself as Barcelona's starting right-back, but he has made 30 appearances for the Spanish side, which is an encouraging sign. Xavi, who was recently named as manager of the Netherlands, has also spoken very highly of the starlet.

"Hector Fort was exceptional, like (Pau) Cubarsi and Lamine (Yamal). He's a total guarantee, he sees the pass well, doesn't lose the ball, positions himself well, he is a footballer of the present."

Everton are also searching for a new right-back, following Seamus Coleman's departure, and David Moyes' side are leading the race for the Barca defender's signature.

Fulham enter contention to sign Hector Fort
According to a report from Sport, Fulham have now entered the race to sign Fort, who is now expected to leave Barcelona this summer, after impressing on loan at Elche.

Liverpool are also keen on signing the full-back, so the Cottagers may have to fend off interest from some top clubs if they are going to get a deal over the line.

What Shea Charles said about Alvaro Arbeloa after signing for Fulham
 Fulham made a major splash in the transfer market by signing Shea Charles from Southampton earlier this week, in a deal worth around £30m, and the midfielder explained Alvaro Arbeloa's vision played a role in selling him a move to Craven Cottage.

Charles said: "I'm buzzing to finally get it over the line. The club has got a really good foundation, from the bottom to the top really. It's a great club, with a really good vision – the manager explained that to me. To be here is a massive privilege.

"I hope to really kickstart my Premier League career. At such a good club as well, it's perfect for me, and hopefully perfect for the fans as well."

The ex-Saints midfielder picked up three goals and two assists in 32 Championship matches last season, and bagged the winning goal in his side's shock 2-1 FA Cup quarter-final victory against Arsenal.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-enter-transfer-race-hector-fort-barcelona-everton/

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Analysing Fulham's changing transfer strategy
Our change in transfer tack is exciting - as long as it's part of a more hollistic whole.

There's a synergy in the profiles of Fulham's last six permanent signings, across three windows. Shea Charles is 22, Gonzalo Garcia is 22, César Palacios is 21, Jonah Kusi-Asare is 18, Oscar Bobb is 22, Kevin is 22.

Aside from reading a little bit like the chorus of Taylor Swift's hit from 2012, there has been a clear shift in what Fulham are trying to do - first under Marco Silva, and now under Álvaro Arbeloa: get younger.

Compare those incomings to the ages of the departing first team players in that period - 35-year-old Raul, three 29-year-olds in Sasa Lukić, Issa Diop and Harry Wilson, 30-year-old Adama Traore, 28-year-old Andreas Pereira - and the picture becomes clearer; this is a genuine attempt to shift the average age of the squad down into a more manageable bracket.

This is somewhat overdue. Fulham had the oldest average age in a Starting XI in the Premier League last season, with Marco Silva consistently choosing to place his trust in more experienced members of the squad. There is nothing wrong with this in principle, and Marco's achievements speak for themselves in terms of returning Fulham to a stable Premier League unit, but it does come with some issues that threaten the health of the club from a longer term perspective.

Firstly, it is far more difficult to sell on players for a profit once they are past or towards the end of their 'prime window', which in football is generally considered to be from about 23-29. This is something Fulham have struggled with, and part of the reason why deals had to be accepted for Lukić and Diop this summer, because there's not loads of value in the market for many of our players we'd be willing to sell.

Secondly, and with a hat tip to the excellent Keith Gaskin, players in this older age category tend to demand higher wages. According to Capology, the departures of Raul, Lukic, Diop, Wilson and Adama will save Fulham nearly £500k a week in wages, while the incoming signings, without the experience (and history) to demand equivalent salaries, will be far lower than that.

While this sounds a bit all "it's not my money, whatever", there's context. The new SCR rules in place insist that a club's salary expenses cannot be more than 85% of its turnover, or you fall victim to fines or transfer bans, so it is more important than ever to get these things under control.

The average age of the squad is dropping, the wage bill has been curbed, and there is a manager in place willing to put his trust in more of the youth players. This is not a guarantee of success by any means, but it does put the long-term health of the club in a better place to succeed going forward.

A lack of a pathway for youngsters has been a frustration for a while under Marco Silva. I am not here to diminish the great man's achievements, or pour any water on one of the greatest managers in the club's modern history, but I recall being very frustrated about the departure of Callum Osmand to Celtic because he didn't see a route to first team football last summer.

If you'll cast your mind back, in the close of the season prior to Osmand's departure, Fulham had suffered the loss of Rodrigo Muniz to injury, and Raul was being asked to plough himself into the ground again. Marco made the decision to bring Carlos Vinicius back into the squad, despite the Brazilian effectively putting out cones for the entire season to that point, and with his contract expiring in the summer.

While this was relatively amusing in the stands, with Vinicius Sr. being received warmly by the Fulham faithful, was that not an opportunity to see how Osmand might get along with the senior squad, and to test him out with a couple of minutes in the Premier League?

Osmand's time at Celtic has been inhibited by a major hamstring injury, but he's scored twice and assisted once in the 125 minutes of football he has played, including an assist and a goal to seal the league title against Hearts. He might have been worth a shot - especially given that he scored 51 goals in 85 games for our youth sides.

Either way, and in the words of Bob Dylan, the times are a-changing, and Fulham are into a brave new world of bringing in players who have potential, rather than experience. Perhaps in this shake up we will also see the likes of Macauley Zepa given first team opportunities under Arbeloa, after the club batted off interest from Bournemouth and Forest last summer and assumedly made assurances of a route to top-tier football at the Cottage.

As our noisy neighbours down the Fulham Road have shown us, there is a balance that needs to be struck between youth and experience.

Stockpiling talented youngsters with no plan, rhyme or reason is clearly not an effective route to success, as their pivot this summer illustrates; but Fulham needed to shift the balances in a direction that was more sustainable, and the signs in that regard look positive - for the time being.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/analysing-fulhams-changing-transfer

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FPL Scout: The case for Fulham's new boys
Fulham have teamed up with Fantasy Football Scout to help bring you hints, tips and advice during the 2026/27 Fantasy Premier League (FPL) season.

Scout will be using their expertise to provide advice and gameweek tips which should prove useful in ensuring you win your mini-leagues.

Fantasy Premier League is now live ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season. Managers can login to the game on the Premier League App and Website to select their 15-man squad.

Ahead of the Gameweek 1 deadline at 6.30pm on Friday 21th August, FPL managers can make unlimited changes to their teams.

Managers can own a maximum of three players from each of the 20 Premier League clubs.

Fulham have been active in the transfer market this summer. Here we look at why some of the new additions could be excellent buys in FPL.

Shea Charles (£5.0m)

Charles arrived at Fulham after an impressive season in the Championship. The midfielder scored three goals (six in all competitions) and registered two assists in 31 appearances last season, giving him some good potential attacking threat for a great value midfielder pick. However, Defensive Contributions look set to be the reason why FPL managers invest in the Northern Irishman. Charles averaged 11.3 clearances, blocks, interceptions, ball recoveries and tackles per 90 last season. Almost exactly the 12 midfielders need to register Defensive Contribution points in a match. At just £5.0m, Charles could comfortably offer managers a minimum of four points each week, with Defensive Contribution points topping up his appearance points.

Gonzalo García (£6.0m)

Garcia made nine starts and 30 appearances in La Liga for Real Madrid last season, scoring six goals and registering an assist. When new Fulham Head Coach Álvaro Arbeloa was in charge at Real Madrid during the second half of the season, Gonzalo made most of his appearances. He scored a goal on average every 158 minutes last season - this tally would have placed him eighth for the FPL forwards, higher than the likes of Joao Pedro (£7.5m) and Ollie Watkins (£8.0m). Following the departure of Raúl Jiménez, FPL managers will be looking to invest in the next Fulham forward, and at £6.0m Gonzalo looks good value for money.

César Palacios (£5.5m)

The vast majority of Palacios' game time during the 25/26 season was in the Primera Federacion Grupo I where he made 30 appearances, scoring 14 goals and registering four assists. The attacking midfielder had an expected goals delta of +0.34, meaning that he vastly outperformed the number of goals he was expected to score, making him a clinical finisher. The midfielder also made five appearances in La Liga last season, with all five coming under Arbeloa in his time as manager. Palacios made his first appearance for Fulham in the pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace, and was unlucky not to score when his shot hit the crossbar. He is one for FPL managers to monitor in the early weeks of the season.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/august/13/fpl-scout-the-case-for-fulhams-new-boys/

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Sources: Newcastle and Fulham make approaches for Oli Devlin
Newcastle United and Fulham have registered their interest in signing Irish teenage sensation Oli Devlin, sources have told Football Insider.

The Coleraine starlet, 18, is regarded as one of the most exciting talents to come out of the Northern Irish top flight in recent years.

Newcastle and Fulham are part of a whole host of Premier League clubs that have the attacking midfielder on their radar, with a view to making a move.

Coleraine are aware of the growing interest in their rising star, and are bracing for clubs to make their moves for him in the coming weeks.

Devlin has dazzled with his progress in recent seasons, and it has prompted serious interest from clubs in England.

The starlet made eight appearances in all competitions last term, notching one goal and two assists in that time.

Oli Devlin set for Premier League academy
Devlin's early strides in senior football have already seen him earmark himself as a huge talent for the future.

That has quickly gained him recognition in England, where several of the country's top clubs are keeping a close eye on him at the moment.

Both Newcastle and Fulham are hugely keen on the starlet, but they are just a small part of a wider interest in Devlin that is beginning to take shape.

Several Premier League clubs are prepared to potentially offer him the chance to move into their academy setups for the next stage of his development.

That would likely see Devlin turn out alongside other elite players at his age group, either as part of a U18 or U21 setup.

Newcastle locked in battle for Joao Palhinha
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Aston Villa remain the "frontrunners" to sign Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich, despite Newcastle showing a fresh interest.

The Magpies are in the market for a new central midfielder, and had been working on a deal to sign Marseille's Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.

However, with the Dane having since turned down a deal, the chance of him moving to St James' Park appears increasingly unlikely.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will move their attention more towards Palhinha as a result, but if they do, then they have work to do to get ahead of Villa.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/newcastle-united/transfers/sources-newcastle-and-fulham-make-approaches-for-oli-devlin

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Zaidan-Jones signs for Fulham
The Club is delighted to announce the signing of 18-year-old Maddox Zaidan-Jones.

A versatile midfielder, Zaidan-Jones has penned a professional contract and will link up with our Under-21s side.

"It feels amazing to sign for Fulham," Zaidan-Jones told fulhamfc.com. "It's the type of thing you dream of when you're a little kid.

"Getting the opportunity to come here and play the game that I love – I couldn't be any happier.

"When I'm on the field, you'll see creativity, technical ability, and somebody that will work hard for the team and the Club.

"This season, I want to contribute as much as I can for the Under-21s, and hopefully that can lead to getting a shot in the First Team."

Born in New York, Zaidan-Jones moved to Turks and Caicos at a young age, which remains where his family calls home now. He represents them on the international stage, capped twice by their senior side, and four further times by their U17.

Also eligible to represent England and Canada, Zaidan-Jones spent a week on trial at Motspur Park last summer, playing the full 90 minutes in a 3-2 win over Charlton Athletic U21 in a pre-season friendly.

After returning to America to complete his studies, Maddox was back at Motspur Park at the start of pre-season.

He has featured in a number friendlies and found the back of the net against Gil Vicente U23, Hampton & Richmond and Charlton U21.

While his preferred position is as a number 10, he has also played minutes at left-back and on either flank during pre-season.

He could make his competitive debut away at Aldershot Town on Tuesday 18th August, 7:45pm kick-off.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/august/13/zaidan-jones-signs-for-fulham/

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Allen and Olyott sign contract extensions

The Club is delighted to announce that Michael Allen and Tom Olyott have both signed one-year contract extensions at Fulham.

Michael Allen

A Fulham player since Under-9s, goalkeeper Allen will be continuing his long association with the Club by a further year, and is eager to get back onto the pitch having cruelly missed the 2025/26 campaign.

After suffering an ACL injury during the off season, Allen was forced to sit on the sidelines, although did return to the grass during the latter months of the campaign.

The 21-year-old returned to action in a friendly against the PFA XI last month. Since then, he has featured in games against Hampton & Richmond, Cardiff City U21 and Charlton Athletic U21.

"I'm delighted to sign a new contract with Fulham," Allen told fulhamfc.com.

"It's been great to be back out there during pre-season. I've missed playing, and I'm just ready to crack on with the season ahead."

Tom Olyott

Olyott is entering his fifth season at the Club having joined from Manchester City in 2022.

The 20-year-old ended last season with seven goals and eight assists across all competitions. He also received a PL2 Player of the Month nomination in January.

The forward has had to work hard during the summer, having suffered a hamstring injury in the penultimate game of the PL2 season in March. He played his first minutes since then in Tuesday's friendly against Charlton.

"It feels great to extend my time at Fulham for another year," he said. "I feel like each year I've progressed more as a player, so I'm hoping I can continue to do that this season.

"For the season ahead, I'm hoping to gain some valuable experience out on loan and showcase the type of player I am at a senior level, as well as continuing to contribute with goals and assists."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/august/13/allen-and-olyott-sign-contract-extensions/

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The Malaga media response to Fulham walk-off
Fulham have found themselves in the firing line after their friendly against Málaga turned into farce.

Málaga Hoy throw the digs in today and how the 36th Costa del Sol Trophy will go down in history following Fulham's walk-off after the game ended 2-2.

Fulham protests
The newspaper explains that Fulham 'vehemently protested' a penalty awarded to Málaga CF right at the end of the game. Málaga Hoy label their behaviour in the incident as 'childish and bizarre', particularly for a club who are 'London's oldest'.

They state that while Fulham were 'not the most prestigious' opponent, they served as a 'great sparring partner' to their Málaga's strength ahead of the upcoming season.

The dispute came over the penalties at the end of the game. Fulham argued that they were not in the contract and they were risk of missing their flight home.

But not before an incident involving Fulham manager Alvaro Arbeloa. He 'made a scene' following the late penalty decision, eventually receiving a straight red for confronting the officials.

Ugly scenes
The situation then turned ugly, with Calvin Bassey urging his team off of the pitch after saying goodbye to the fans.

The stadium responded in kind. There were ironic chants of "Champions, champions!" as one Málaga player took mock penalties that the fans cheered on. Finally, there was a chant of "Where is Arbeloa? Where is Arbeloa?" before the home side were 'showered with affection.

According to Fulham, the fall out was because contracts weren't honoured. Málaga Hoy are having none of that, insisting the 'version of events' that's being shared 'doesn't sound very convincing'.

They – as is abundantly clear – aren't having any of it. As far as they're concerned, Fulham acted like children and should now be treated as such. Málaga meanwhile, did absolutely nothing wrong and do not deserve any criticism whatsoever for the incident.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/the-malaga-media-response-to-fulham-walk-off/

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Fulham Wanted Star 'Is Allowed To Leave'
Fulham target Joe Scally 'is allowed to leave' Borussia Monchenglabach this summer, with talks about his departure under way.

The American full-back has been linked with a move away from the Bundesliga club and is generating interest.

Premier League side Fulham are major suitors of Scally amid suggestions they have made contact over a possible deal.

Fulham have been joined in the hunt by French giants Marseille, who have expressed an interest and held initial talks over a possible deal for the 23-year-old.

Gladbach are ready to sign off on an exit for the former New York City FC man.

According to German journalist Marlon Irlbacher, Scally 'is allowed to leave' Gladbach this summer, with interest from England now 'confirmed'.

Scally is open to moving on from the Bundesliga side this summer, but it is still unclear where he will end up playing his football in the new season.

A move to Fulham could well be hugely appealing for Scally, but Marseille make for tough competitors for the Cottagers given their status as a club.

Gladbach signed the full-back from New York City at the start of 2021 and quickly nailed down a regular spot in the Bundesliga side.

The defender was at first slotted into Gladbach's II team in the Regionalliga West, before then being part of the senior squad from the 2021/22 season.

Scally has now clocked five full seasons of Bundesliga football.

He was included in the United States' squad for the World Cup in North America earlier this summer.

Fulham could be set for a busy end of the transfer window, with Kevin having attracted interest from Italian giants Roma, while Fenerbahce have been considering a move for Ryan Sessegnon.

Cottagers full-back Antonee Robinson has also been linked with a potential move away from Craven Cottage.



https://insidefutbol.com/2026/08/13/fulham-wanted-star-is-allowed-to-leave/723399/

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Everton could leapfrog Fulham, Liverpool in Hector Fort chase
Everton are set to overtake Fulham and Liverpool in the pursuit of Barcelona defensive sensation Hector Fort.

According to a report from Sport, Everton are monitoring Barcelona youngster Hector Fort, who has accepted that his future likely lies away from Camp Nou. The Toffees have stepped up their efforts to sign the young Spaniard, and they could leapfrog rivals Fulham and Liverpool in the battle for his signature.

The 20-year-old had hoped to change Hansi Flick's plans during pre-season and force his way into Barcelona's first-team picture. However, the club's stance has remained unchanged, leaving Fort and his representatives focused on finding a new destination where he can enjoy regular football.

Several Premier League clubs have shown interest in the versatile right-back, with Everton, Fulham, and Liverpool all monitoring his situation.

Premier League trio to battle for Fort's signature
Everton could emerge as the most attractive option for both the player and Barcelona. The club's need for depth at right-back following Seamus Coleman's departure, combined with a stable managerial setup under David Moyes, may offer Fort a clearer pathway than Liverpool or Fulham.

Moyes has Nathan Patterson and Jake O'Brien as his right-back options at present. However, Fort could increase competition and provide another young option capable of developing into a long-term starter.

Fulham, meanwhile, are also looking towards the future. Timothy Castagne and Kenny Tete are both 30, and have not been at their best for a while, making Fort an appealing investment given his age and potential. The Cottagers could see the Barcelona academy graduate as someone capable of gradually taking over the position while providing immediate competition.

Liverpool are also evaluating Fort as an option. Jeremie Frimpong has yet to make the desired impact since arriving, while Conor Bradley is still not considered ready to be the undisputed first-choice option. Adding Fort would give Andoni Iraola another young and versatile player to compete for minutes.

Fort's development was also boosted by his loan spell at Elche last season, although a shoulder injury limited him to just 17 appearances. Despite playing fewer than 700 minutes, he still registered five goal contributions, demonstrating his attacking potential from the full-back position.

Barcelona are now keen to resolve Fort's situation quickly, particularly with the major European leagues about to begin. The Spanish defender remains under contract until 2029, meaning the Catalan giants have considerable control over his future.

Rather than simply allowing promising youngsters to leave, Barcelona now favour arrangements that preserve a significant percentage of the player's rights and potential future-sale value. That formula could prove decisive. While a loan remains possible, Everton's ability to present an attractive overall proposal could see them emerge as the front-runner.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/08/13/everton-could-leapfrog-fulham-liverpool-in-hector-fort-chase/