Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 26/06/24...

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Results

Tuesday 25/06
England	0-0	Slovenia
Denmark	0-0	Serbia
Netherlands	2-3	Austria
France	1-1	Poland

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Tony Macedo: 1938-2024

The Club was saddened to learn of the passing of one of our greatest ever goalkeepers, Tony Macedo.

Macedo, whose father played for Real Madrid and the Spain national side, was born in Gibraltar but won 10 caps for England Under-23s, and was unfortunate never to represent the senior side.

A brave goalkeeper who was aggressive in claiming crosses, Macedo was capable of the most spectacular and acrobatic saves, making him a real crowd pleaser at Craven Cottage.

After keeping a clean sheet on his debut in a 5-0 win at Bristol City in December 1957, Macedo never looked back, helping Fulham win promotion to the top flight the following season, where we remained for nine years.

In that time, we also reached two FA Cup Semi-Finals, with Macedo playing every single game in the competition in both 1958 and 1962.

Macedo departed Fulham at the end of the 1967/68 campaign with 391 matches to his name, putting him 18th on our all-time appearances list.

Everyone at Fulham would like to offer our condolences to Tony's wife Margaret, children Donna and Mark, his grandchildren, and all his friends, at this sad time.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/25/tony-macedo-1938-2024/

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Remembering Tony Macedo
Following the sad news of Tony Macedo's passing, Club Historian Alex White has penned an obituary for one of Fulham's finest ever 'keepers.

One of Fulham's greatest ever goalkeepers, Elio 'Tony' Macedo was born in Gibraltar on 22nd February 1938 and arrived in the UK with his family as a two-year-old. He was spectacular, brave and acrobatic, and more like a continental goalkeeper than a typically English one. He was often brilliant but very occasionally prone to mistakes. Tony was the son of a Spanish international who played for San Sebastian and Real Madrid during the 1930s. He attended Burghley Road School (Tufnell Park) and represented St Pancras & Middlesex Schools. When he first broke into the Fulham side in December 1957, Tony was flown from Germany, where he was doing his national service, to play for the Club.

Macedo appeared 37 times as he helped Fulham to promotion to the First Division as runners-up during season 1958/59. He was outstanding in Fulham's two cup runs to the Semi-Finals of the FA Cup in 1958 and 1962, but had an off day in the replay at Highbury against Manchester United on 26th March 1958 when Fulham were defeated by 5-3, and when the Whites lost to Burnley 2-1 at Filbert Street in a Semi-Final replay in April 1962.

Macedo was the regular goalkeeper during the Club's First Division days, and he also gained 10 England Under-23 caps and was unlucky never to have received a full international cap. Tony was ever-present in the side during season 1962/63 but had a knee operation during the summer and this had become inflamed again in the opening fixture defeat at Everton. He did not return to the side for three months, then was the first choice again until December 1965 when manager Vic Buckingham selected Jack McClelland instead of Tony.

He made his final appearance for the Club on 4th May 1968, when we drew 2-2 at home to Southampton in the final home game of the season, with Tony having made 391 League, FA & League Cup appearances for the Whites. Macedo was transferred to Colchester United in September 1968 for £5k, where he made a further 40 league and cup appearances. He then received a good offer to go and play in South Africa and joined Durban City, and later played for Highlands Park. Macedo lived in Johannesburg for many years, running a car business before moving to Australia in 2011. He visited Craven Cottage in August 2011 for the last time en route between the two countries.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2024/june/25/remembering-tony-macedo/

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Fulham 'considering' move to offer ex-Arsenal man Premier League return
Fulham are reportedly interested in signing former Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles this summer.

Maitland-Niles rose through the youth ranks at Arsenal before going on to make 132 competitive appearances for the senior side.

However, he ultimately struggled to establish himself as part of the first-team setup and spent time out on loan at West Bromwich Albion, Roma and Southampton during the final two-and-a-half years of his Arsenal deal.

Maitland-Niles ended his 20-year association with Arsenal last summer, leaving the Gunners on a free transfer upon the expiry of his contract.

The Englishman went on to leave the Premier League and sign for Ligue 1 side Lyon on a four-year deal until the summer of 2027.

Fulham eyeing Maitland-Niles transfer
The 28-year-old operated in a variety of positions during his first season in France, including as a right-back, central midfielder and on the left side of defence.

Maitland-Niles registered two goals and four assists in 29 competitive appearances, helping Lyon finish in sixth place and as runners-up in the Coupe de France.

According to TEAMtalk, Fulham could offer Maitland-Niles the chance to return to the Premier League this summer.

The report suggests that Maitland-Niles may be interested in the opportunity to move back to London despite only joining Lyon last year.

Would Maitland-Niles be a smart signing for Fulham?
Fulham are weighing up a potential move for the former Arsenal man as they look to build a side that can improve upon last season's 13th-placed finish.

There may be concern as to whether Maitland-Niles will help take Fulham to the next level, especially as he experienced relegation with West Brom and Southampton.

However, the Cottagers would most likely use him as a squad player and his versatility could be useful to Fulham boss Marco Silva.

Even if Fulham decide to step up their interest, they would need to convince Lyon to part ways with Maitland-Niles after just one season.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/arsenal/transfer-talk/news/pl-return-fulham-eyeing-ex-arsenal-man_546695.html?newsnow

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Report: Former Arsenal Midfielder on Fulham's Radar
Fulham's Ambitious Plans: Ainsley Maitland-Niles on Marco Silva's Radar
Fulham are eyeing a move to bring former Arsenal midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles back to the Premier League, TEAMtalk can reveal. This potential transfer is part of Marco Silva's broader strategy to bolster his squad for the upcoming season.

Versatility and Experience: Maitland-Niles' Journey
Maitland-Niles left Arsenal last summer upon the expiry of his contract to join French giants Lyon on a free transfer. The 26-year-old impressed in his debut season with Lyon, making 29 appearances in all competitions and contributing two goals and four assists. His ability to perform in a variety of roles, from right-back to across the midfield, caught the attention of several clubs.

The Englishman's versatility is precisely what Silva is looking for as he aims to strengthen Fulham's squad. Fulham finished 13th in the Premier League last season, and Silva is determined to improve this standing. "Maitland-Niles' versatility as an addition to his plans," highlights the importance of adaptable players in modern football.

Maitland-Niles Considering London Return
Maitland-Niles, who has won five caps for England, could be interested in a move back to the Premier League and a return to his native London with Fulham. The familiarity of the Premier League and the chance to work under Silva could be compelling factors for Maitland-Niles. His experience in the Premier League and international stage with England adds significant value to Fulham's ambitions.

"Fulham are planning big changes to their squad in this summer's transfer window as they look to build on their 13th-place finish in the Premier League last season," TEAMtalk reports. This strategic overhaul indicates that Fulham are not just looking to survive but to compete at a higher level in the league.

Marco Silva's Vision for Fulham
Silva's vision for Fulham is clear: he wants a team that can adapt and compete against the best in the Premier League. The potential addition of Maitland-Niles fits perfectly into this vision. The midfielder's adaptability would provide Silva with tactical flexibility, allowing him to make dynamic changes depending on the opposition.

The return to pre-season training in July and the kick-off of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign with a trip to Manchester United on Friday, August 16, are critical dates for Silva. These events underscore the urgency of getting new signings integrated into the team as quickly as possible.

The Bigger Picture: Fulham's Transfer Strategy
This move for Maitland-Niles is just one part of a broader transfer strategy that Fulham seems to be implementing. The club is reportedly making several key changes, aiming to bring in players who can elevate the team's performance. The focus is not just on big names but on players who can fit into Silva's system and bring the desired versatility and depth.



https://eplindex.com/113559/report-former-arsenal-midfielder-on-fulhams-radar.html

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RIP Tony Macedo
Former Fulham goalkeeper Tony Macdeo has passed away at the age of 86, the club have confirmed this morning.

Macedo, widely considered the finest goalkeeper of his generation not to win a senior England cap, was born in Gibraltar in February 1938. He joined Fulham as a youth team player in 1955 and made his first-team debut for the Whites in a 5-0 win at Bristol City in December 1957. A brave goalkeeper who excelled at claiming crosses and distributed the ball brilliantly, Macedo missed only matches as Fulham won promotion back to the top flight in 1958/59 and starred as the Whites finished tenth the following season.

He remained as Fulham's first choice goalkeeper until 1966 and was outstanding as the Cottagers reached the FA Cup semi-finals in 1958 and 1962. He never won his place back after suffering injury problems following a fantastic 1966/67 and left for Colchester United in September 1968 having made 391 appearances for Fulham, the eighteenth highest in the club's history.

Our thoughts are with Tony's widen Margaret, daughter Donna, son Mark, his grandchildren and many friends at this tremendously sad time. May Tony rest in peace.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2024/06/rip-tony-macedo/

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Bayern Munich eye Amadou Onana as Joao Palhinha alternative in £50m deal – Sky Sports Germany
Bayern Munich have shortlisted Everton star Amadou Onana as an alternative to Fulham star Joao Palhinha, according to Sky Sports Germany.

Writing on their website (24 June), the news outlet report that the German giants are going "all in" to bring the Portugal international to Munich this summer and have offered Fulham £38million, but the Cottagers want more.

If a deal can't be struck soon Bayern will move on to other targets and have a strong interest in Onana, who is expected to leave Goodison Park [Pieter-Jan Calcoen, 1 June] this summer and is valued at around £50million [TEAMtalk, 15 June].

Everton to sell Amadou Onana to Bayern Munich
There has been a lot of talk about potential outgoings at Goodison Park this summer, and it seems inevitable that the club will lose one of their best players in this transfer window.

The Toffes however are determined to keep hold of Jarrad Branthwaite despite big interest from Manchester United [Forbes, 24 May], and a move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin to join Newcastle has collapsed [Alan Myers, 24 June].

That leaves Onana as the obvious player to move on during the transfer window, with Sean Dyche often dropping him from his starting lineup when in desperate need of a result.

The Belgium star is keen to move on and has attracted big interest from a host of clubs across Europe which will help the club with their financial problems, and allow them to reinvest it into the squad.

Tim Iroegbunam has already been brought in to strengthen the midfield too, and even if the Bayern move doesn't materialise don't be surprised to see Onana leave Goodison Park.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2024/06/25/bayern-munich-eye-amadou-onana-as-joao-palhinha-alternative-in-50m-deal-sky-sports-germany/

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Arsenal could lose £50m transfer target due to Fulham stubbornness
Arsenal have long been linked with the Everton man but now face serious competition from the continent.

Arsenal could be outmuscled to the signing of talented Everton midfielder Amadou Onana by Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich this summer.

The Bavarians had been set on a move for robust Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha but the Cottagers have proven hard to negotiate with for a second summer running. The Portuguese international was due to make the switch to Bayern Munich in a £58 million transfer last summer.

However, Fulham failed to find a suitable replacement in time and that deal collapsed at the last moment. Palhinha returned to London and got his head down to put in an impressive campaign, even signing a new contract in September to keep him at the club in 2028.

Undeterred, Bayern Munich have come knocking once again this summer. It had been reported that the German outfit had agreed personal terms with Palhinha and started a flurry of bids, first a £30 million and then a £38 million offer as they fight to keep their key man.

Now, according to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich have turned their efforts to Everton midfielder Onana after being left frustrated by Fulham. The 22-year-old is currently representing Belgium at Euro 2024 and has been named as an Arsenal transfer target in recent months.

That could leave Mikel Arteta's Gunners competing with Bayern Munich for the same midfield target, with the Germans clearly having money to spend.

It's thought that a cash-strapped Everton could be forced to sell the player, who arrived at Goodison Park from Lille for £33 million in 2022. The Toffees are now said to want at least £50 million for the player's services with some reports even suggesting the Merseyside club could look to drive that number up as high as £90 million.

While on international duty, Onana appeared to hint at interest in joining a side such as Arsenal or Bayern Munich. He told Dutch outlet Het Laatste Nieuws: "At previous tournaments, you have seen that the players who did well make the step up to the top clubs. That's something I strive for. I feel like presenting myself to the European top and showing what I have to offer. This European Championship is a stage."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/arsenal/arsenal-could-lose-ps50m-transfer-target-due-to-fulham-stubbornness-4679271

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Liverpool 'keeping tabs' on 21-year-old as Fulham and Southampton plot moves
Latest Liverpool transfer news and rumours as they prepare for the start of the new season

Liverpool finished 3rd in the Premier League table last term behind Manchester City and Arsenal. They are gearing up for a new era now without Jurgen Klopp.

Arne Slot has been picked as the new manager at Anfield and has the chance to put his own stamp on his newly inherited squad. Here is a look at some of the latest news and rumours coming out of the club...

Attacking midfielder wanted
Liverpool attacking midfielder Fabio Carvalho is a wanted man following his loan spell at Hull City during the second-half of last season. The 21-year-old was given the green light to join the Tigers in January to get some game time under his belt after his previous stint at RB Leipzig didn't go to plan.

He was a hit during his time at the MKM Stadium and scored nine goals in 22 games. However, the East Yorkshire outfit narrowly missed out on the play-offs.

According to the Daily Mail, he has now emerged on the radar of Fulham, Southampton and Leicester City, as well as some unnamed teams in Germany, Holland, France and Spain. The player will be looked at by the Reds over pre-season though before they make a decision on his immediate future.

Carvalho has recently said: "It'll (pre-season) be a fresh start for me, and for the likes of Tyler (Morton) as well. We've just got to take the chances that come. Really grasp it and take it with both hands.

"Tyler and I have spoken (about the summer). Especially after the news came out about Jurgen. We just spoke about what could potentially change at the club.

"Ultimately, it's a fresh start for both of us. We'll just go back there with nothing to lose and everything to gain."

Centre-back on radar
Liverpool are 'keeping tabs' on Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as they eye up potential targets, according to Football Insider. The 21-year-old is being linked with a switch to Merseyside as Slot aims to bring in some reinforcements over the next couple of months.

The Brazilian moved over to England in 2023 as a bit of an unknown quantity. Prior to his transfer, he played for Corinthians but had only played 37 matches for them, 13 of which came in the league.

He has adapted well to life in his new country though and helped Forest stay up last term under Nuno Espirito Santo.

Murillo has made 36 outings since moving to the City Ground and has caught the eye. He penned a bumper five-year deal meaning he still has four years left.

Forest are under no pressure to sell him anytime soon and can wait for the right offer to arrive.

Liverpool could see him as a long-term option in the heart of defence and someone to inject more competition and depth into that department. Virgil van Dijk still has plenty of time on his side at the age of 32 but they should start thinking about players to step into his shoes further down the line.



https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/liverpool/liverpool-keeping-tabs-on-21-year-old-as-fulham-and-southampton-plot-moves-4679228

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Fulham 'eyeing' move for familiar face as Marco Silva hunts for new additions
Latest Fulham transfer news and rumours as they prepare for the new Premier League season

Fulham are preparing for another season in the Premier League. Marco Silva has the chance to freshen up his ranks with some new signings now the transfer window is open for business.

The Whites may also look to offload some players to free up space and funds in their squad. Here is a look at some of the latest news and rumours coming out of the club...

Former Arsenal man eyed
Fulham could try and lure Ainsley Maitland-Niles back to England from Lyon and are 'eyeing' a move, according to a report by TEAMtalk. The 26-year-old, who has made five caps for the Three Lions so far in his career, moved to France on a permanent basis last year.

The versatile midfielder rose up through the academy ranks at Arsenal and was a regular for the Gunners at various different levels before going on to make 132 appearances for their first-team in all competitions, chipping in with three goals.

He also had loan spells away from the Emirates Stadium at Ipswich Town, West Brom, Roma and Southampton to boost his development and get some experience.

Lyon snapped him up last August 2023 after his contract at Arsenal ran out and he penned a four-year deal with the Ligue 1 giants.

Fulham are now being linked with a move for him though and could see him as someone to add more competition and depth to their ranks.

Attacking midfielder eyed
The Whites could apparently try and tempt Fabio Carvalho back to Craven Cottage. He spent the second-half of last term on loan at Hull City in the Championship.

He was allowed to link up with the Tigers this past winter to boost his fitness levels after a tough stint in Germany with RB Leipzig.

The attacking midfielder, who is 21-years-old, was a hit in East Yorkshire and scored nine goals in all competitions.

Hull ultimately ended up missing out on the play-offs though and fell three points short in the end. That resulted in ex-Fulham man Liam Rosenior losing his job as the head coach at the MKM Stadium and he has now become available. Former Holstein Kiel, Stuttgart and Hamburg man Tim Walter has replaced him.

Carvalho has now gone back to Liverpool and their new boss Arne Slot will get the chance to look at him in pre-season.

According to the Daily Mail, he has emerged on the radar of Fulham, as well as Southampton and Leicester City. Unnamed teams in Germany, Holland, France and Spain are also in the frame.

He has recently said: "It'll (pre-season) be a fresh start for me, and for the likes of Tyler (Morton) as well. We've just got to take the chances that come. Really grasp it and take it with both hands.

"Tyler and I have spoken (about the summer). Especially after the news came out about Jurgen (Klopp). We just spoke about what could potentially change at the club.

"Ultimately, it's a fresh start for both of us. We'll just go back there with nothing to lose and everything to gain."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-eyeing-move-for-familiar-face-as-marco-silva-hunts-for-new-additions-4679529

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Everton closing in on signing Iliman Ndiaye
Everton are currently the favourites to land Iliman Ndiaye from Marseille, with a loan move and a buy option planned as the appropriate route.

According to HITC, Everton could find themselves in pole position in the race for Iliman Ndiaye. The Senegal international has been told he can leave Marseille by new boss Roberto De Zerbi, as there's interest from the likes of Fulham, but the Toffees are favourites to land him this summer ahead of Fulham.

Everton front-runners in Iliman Ndiaye chase
Everton boss Sean Dyche is eager to rebuild his side, and there are already a few players inching closer to joining the Toffees. First, it could be another loan deal for Jack Harrison, as the terms with Leeds United have already been agreed upon ahead of the new season.

The Toffees are also signing Tim Iroegbunam from Aston Villa, and after these deals are in place, Everton will target a forward. They have set sights on Iliman Ndiaye and are eager to prioritise a move for the Senegal international this summer.

Things have not gone too well for the 24-year-old attacker after his dream move back to Marseille last summer. He has underperformed and somewhat fallen out with the fans at the Ligue 1 club, and new boss Roberto De Zerbi does not want to keep him, meaning he is free to leave.

In fact, Everton were keen on signing him last summer but could not convince him over his dream move to Marseille. The Ligue 1 giants paid £20 million to Sheffield United at that time, and considering the Toffees' finances, they are eager to sign him on loan with a buy option, as such an arrangement might suit all parties.

Everton facing competition for Ndiaye
The Toffees are not alone in the race for Ndiaye, with Fulham also understood to be a big suitor for the forward. Marco Silva views the 24-year-old attacker as a good option as he looks to reinforce the forward line.

Crystal Palace were also keen a few months back, but that interest might have cooled as new manager Oliver Glasner might have different ideas. Rangers are also interested in Ndiaye, but they might end up losing out to Everton like every other side chasing Ndiaye, including Fulham.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2024/06/25/everton-closing-in-on-signing-iliman-ndiaye/