Thursday Fulham Stuff - 09/07/26...

[WhiteJC]

Former Liverpool defender set for Anfield return in new Premier League role
Former Liverpool defender Alvaro Arbeloa has been appointed as the new head coach of Fulham.

The Spaniard replaces Marco Silva in the dugout at Craven Cottage ahead of the 2026-27 Premier League season.

And Arbeloa will swiftly be visiting Anfield, with the Reds hosting the Cottagers in matchweek four on September 12.

Signed from Deportivo La Coruna in January 2007, Arbeloa went on to make 98 appearances for Liverpool under Rafael Benitez and score twice.

He spent two-and-a-half years on Merseyside before moving to Real Madrid in 2009.



https://www.liverpoolfc.com/news/former-liverpool-defender-set-anfield-return-new-premier-league-role

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 'Have Shown Interest' In Serie A Defender
Fulham 'have shown interest' in Udinese defender Thomas Kristensen, although the Cottagers are facing competition from both Juventus and Atalanta.

The 24-year-old has been a regular presence in Udinese's defence since arriving at the club in 2023.

He remained an important figure last season, making 31 appearances across all competitions and finding the net three times.

However, with just two years remaining on his contract, Kristensen is believed to be ready for a fresh challenge and is waiting to see what opportunities emerge during the summer transfer window.

Fellow Friulians star Arthur Atta attracted Premier League interest earlier in the window from Newcastle United, while Aston Villa are now also pushing for his signature.

The same could be true for the centre-back, with Fulham having shown interest in securing the defender's services, according to Italian outlet Tutto Udinese.

Whether the Cottagers choose to turn that interest into a concrete approach remains unclear, but any pursuit is unlikely to be straightforward.

Interested club	League
Fulham	Premier League
Atalanta	Serie A
Juventus	Serie A

Atalanta have already made enquiries about the centre-back, while Juventus have also been linked with the Dane recently, raising the possibility that he could remain in Serie A despite seeking a move away from Udinese.

Fulham could also face another obstacle in the race, with Kristensen is understood to be eager to play European football, something both Atalanta and the Old Lady are currently in a position to offer.

The Friulians are fully aware of the defender's desire to move on and are prepared to sanction his departure, although only if their €15m valuation is met.

Should none of the interested clubs match that asking price, Kristensen remaining at Udinese beyond the summer window cannot be ruled out.

Fulham, meanwhile, are preparing for a new era under Alvaro Arbeloa and are yet to make a fresh signing this summer.

Their only movement in the window so far has been Jonah Kusi-Asare's initial loan move from Bayern Munich being made permanent.

Another player who spent last season on loan at Cotton Cravage, Samuel Chukwueze, is preparing to fight for his place back at AC Milan.

The Cottagers are also monitoring Franculino Dju, but Everton and West Ham United are in the frame for the forward.

Whether Fulham are prepared to step up their pursuit of Kristensen in the face of mounting competition should become clearer over the coming days.

English clubs were already circling the centre-back last summer, with Nottingham Forest and Wolves among those credited with an interest.



https://insidefutbol.com/2026/07/08/fulham-have-shown-interest-in-serie-a-defender/719323/

[WhiteJC]

3 players Real Madrid need to loan to Alvaro Arbeloa and Fulham
As has been anticipatd for weeks, former Real Madrid right back and manager Alvaro Arbeloa has been confirmed as the next coach of Premier League side Fulham, who have risen to become European contenders over the last few seasons.

Arbeloa was not able to win any trophies at Madrid and could not repair the broken locker room after Xabi Alonso's disastrous reign, but he was able to at least get a few key players to believe in themselves and help launch a few prospects.

Here are three players Real Madrid need to think about loaning to Fulham so that Arbeloa can continue to help develop them into quality footballers.

LB Victor Valdepenas
Jose Mourinho is stll considering the first team future of Victor Valdepenas, who looked like he would be a real breakout star for Real Madrid before suffering an unfortunate injury. Capable of playing on either flank, Valdepenas is such a gem that even Arsenal and Mikel Arteta have been pondering him as a possible signing.

Fulham already have a class fullback in American Antonee Robinson, but that could take some pressure off Valdepenas, who could get minutes in a variety of positions and start in the cups.

DM Thiago Pitarch
Thiago Pitarch was so good last season for Real Madrid that even Manchester City could not touch him on the Champions League nights in the middle of the park. His technical quality, vision, work rate, and football IQ are wise beyond his years, and he is the latest example of the brilliance of Spanish development of midfield generals.

Real Madrid need to hold onto him at all costs and let him flourish, and he is not going to be helped by sitting on the bench at the Santiago Bernabeu. Alvaro Arbeloa saw his talent flourish, and he could help him shine and be battle tested in the Premier League.

ST Gonzalo Garcia
For now, Gonzalo Garcia is staying at Real Madrid as the main backup No. 9 to Kylian Mbappe, but if a veteran like Deniz Undav or Mikel Oyarzabal piques Jose Mourinho's interest after a standout World Cup, perhaps Garcia could move on to start elsewhere.

Garcia was more efficient in front of goal than Kylian Mbappe last season, and Real Madrid were surprisingly more effective as a team with the future Spanish national team starter in their XI. Even now, Garcia would walk into Arbeloa's starting lineup at Fulham.



https://therealchamps.com/3-players-real-madrid-need-to-loan-to-alvaro-arbeloa-and-fulham-01kwzhsky191

[WhiteJC]

Fulham rival Everton in Daizen Maeda chase
Daizen Maeda's future at Celtic is expected to be resolved in the coming weeks, with several Premier League clubs now monitoring the Japan international.

The 28-year-old has entered the final year of his contract and is keen to test himself at the highest possible level. Celtic are understood to accept that a summer move may now suit all parties rather than risk losing him for free next year. The Scottish champions are prepared to consider offers if they receive a fee that reflects his importance to the squad.

According to Football Insider, Everton and Nottingham Forest are currently involved in an open race for Maeda, but Fulham and Brentford are also showing interest. The Premier League is believed to be a particularly attractive destination for the forward.

Maeda enjoyed another productive campaign last season, registering 17 goals and 10 assists in all competitions. That followed an outstanding 2024/25 season in which he scored 33 times, underlining his consistency and attacking threat. His World Cup involvement with Japan delayed concrete movement, but after their elimination by Brazil in the Round of 32, discussions over his next club are expected to accelerate.

Why Fulham and Everton are both attracted to Maeda
From a tactical perspective, Maeda offers the intensity Premier League clubs increasingly value. He presses aggressively, attacks space quickly and can operate across the frontline, making him useful in different systems.

For Fulham, his movement and work rate would help replace attacking output after changes in their forward line. He would provide direct running, pressing energy, and goals without requiring the team to be built entirely around him.

Everton's long-standing interest also makes sense. David Moyes needs more reliable attacking depth, and Maeda's experience, discipline and productivity would suit a side looking to become more efficient in the final third. The Japanese international could prove to be an inspired addition to the Toffees' roster.

Should Maeda choose the Premier League?
This feels like the right time for Maeda to move as he has achieved plenty at Celtic and remains at an age where he can still make a serious impact in England. Fulham may offer a cleaner tactical pathway, while Everton could give him a more prominent role. Either way, Celtic are unlikely to keep him if a fair offer arrives. The player, for his part, appears ready for a new challenge.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/08/fulham-rival-everton-in-daizen-maeda-chase/

[WhiteJC]

Bit-Part Real Madrid Players Could Be Offered Alvaro Arbeloa Lifeline
The Spaniard has returned to management, taking a first job in the Premier League.

New Fulham manager Álvaro Arbeloa, who has signed a three-year contract to take over at Craven Cottage, reportedly wants to reunite with multiple Real Madrid players.

Arbeloa left his role at the Bernabéu at the end of the 2025–26 season, having taken over from Xabi Alonso in January. The former Real Madrid B team boss had no top-level experience as a coach prior to being appointed by Florentino Pérez midseason, but was seen as a good club man and a stabilizing presence amid a period of turmoil.

Ultimately, however, he failed to get Madrid back on track as the club finished the campaign trophyless and mired in scandal.

After leaving the Bernabéu, Arbeloa has made an immediate return to management with Fulham as part of a curious three-way job swap that has seen José Mourinho trade Benfica for Real Madrid, Marco Silva leave Fulham for Benfica and now Arbeloa go from Madrid to Fulham.

"It is a real honor for me to be embarking on this new stage at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London," he said in his official announcement statement. "I feel a great sense of responsibility and I'm deeply grateful to [chairman] Mr [Shahid] Khan and [vice-chairman] Tony Khan for the trust they have placed in me with Fulham in the Premier League."

The BBC reports that Arbeloa's candidacy for the Fulham job was supported by excellent references from Real Madrid president Pérez as well as Mourinho.

Arbeloa Eyes Madrid Duo for Fulham Project
It also seems that the new manager will look to use his connections with Madrid to help Fulham in the transfer market with the BBC report adding that Arbeloa is interested in moves for trio Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo García. Fran García had also been floated as a figure of interest but has since signed for La Liga rivals Real Betis.

Both Mastantuono and Gonzalo García are bit-parters at Real Madrid and could well be made available for loan or permanent sale this summer.

18-year-old attacking midfielder Mastantuono's name will be a particularly tantalizing prospect for Fulham fans. The Argentine arrived in the Spanish capital for €45million ($50 million) with high expectations last summer, but failed to make a mark on the first team during his debut season, scoring just once in La Liga.

Arbeloa was full of praise for Mastantuono in May, highlighting the "extraordinary future" he has ahead of him "because of his talent, his commitment and his mentality."

22-year-old striker Gonzalo García, meanwhile, was prolific for Real Madrid's B team, but has found it difficult to break into the senior squad given the presence of Kylian Mbappé.

Opportunity for More Real Madrid Clauses
Real Madrid have been particularly adept at getting value out of players deemed not good enough or not ready for the first team.

Sell-on clauses and buyback arrangements have been baked into deals for several young stars now thriving around Europe, including the likes of Nico Paz and Jacobo Ramón at Como.

In addition this summer, the club is said to have banked as much as €20 million ($23 million) from Víctor Muñoz's sale from Osasuna to Liverpool, €12.5 million ($14 million) from Álvaro Rodríguez's transfer from Elche to Bournemouth and €3.5 million ($4 million) for Mario Martín's move to Getafe.

It seems probable that any deals with Fulham for high potential youngsters would involve similar arrangements regarding sell-on clauses.



https://www.si.com/soccer/real-madrid-players-alvaro-arbeloa-lifeline

[WhiteJC]

Harry Wilson leaves Fulham
Harry Wilson has left Fulham and joined Leeds United following the expiry of his contract.

It brings the curtain down on a prolific five years in SW6 for the winger, as he departs with 82 goal involvements (36G, 46A) in 187 games for the Club.

Following confirmation of the news, Wilson released the following statement on Instagram: "To everyone associated with Fulham FC, after five amazing years, it's time to say goodbye.

"I came to the club wanting somewhere to call home and I definitely did that.

"This club will always mean a lot to me and my family. It's where we brought both of our children into the world, and that will stay with me forever.

"To the fans, thank you. Your support has meant so much throughout my time here, and it's been a privilege to represent this club in front of you.

"I'm so proud of everything we achieved together. Winning the Championship, setting the club's highest Premier League points total and most wins in a season, and being part of such a great group of players and staff are memories I'll always look back on with pride.

"To finish my time at Fulham as Player of the Season makes it even more special.

"The friendships I've made here will stay with me for life, and I'd like to thank everyone behind the scenes who work so hard every day to make the club what it is.

"Who put the ball...

"H. 🤍"

Tony Khan said: "I would like to thank Harry for his dedication and commitment to Fulham over the last five years. His flair and tenacity on the pitch made him a firm fan favourite, and his memorable goals even more so.

"He is also a truly great person and will be missed around the training ground, but we wish him all the very best for the future and thank him for his time with the Club.

"Thank you, Harry!"

Brought in as Marco Silva's first signing alongside Paulo Gazzaniga, Wilson made an immediate impact, reaching double figures for both goals (11) and assists (21) as Fulham won the Championship – form that saw him named in both the EFL and PFA Team of the Season.

A consistent presence in the side following our return to the top-flight – nobody played more matches for the Club over the last five years – Wilson scored 22 times in the Premier League, making him the eighth highest scorer in the division in our history.

A Wilson goal almost always meant a result for Fulham. Of the 33 matches in which he found the net, we lost only two, winning 27 of them.

The vast majority of his strikes were special, too. From long range curlers, to last season's trivela against Crystal Palace, tap-ins weren't really part of Wilson's armoury.

His stoppage time brace against Brentford in 2024/25 will go down in history as one of the great Craven Cottage nights, with the equaliser that evening going on to win our Goal of the Season award.

He also added a Player of the Season trophy to his collection this summer, following a career best year that saw him register 11 goals and eight assists in just 38 Premier League and FA Cup matches, a record of one goal involvement every other game.

A very friendly man who always made time for the fans, Wilson departs with a fantastic Fulham legacy, and we wish him the best of luck – two games a season aside – at Leeds.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/july/08/harry-wilson-leaves-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Wilson completes move to Leeds
Harry Wilson has completed a move to Leeds after rejecting Fulham's offer of a new contract.

The 29-year-old winger has been at Fulham since joining from Liverpool in July 2021 and has established himself as a key player at Craven Cottage.

His contract expired this summer and there have been doubts over his future for some time.

Leeds previously tried to sign Wilson during recent transfer windows and had offers turned down by Fulham, but retained their interest in the player and have signed him on a four-year contract.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-wilson-leeds-move

[WhiteJC]

Real Madrid forward emerges as a leading target for Arbeloa at Fulham
Fulham's newly-appointed head coach Alvaro Arbeloa has made Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Garcia his primary transfer target as he begins reshaping the squad at Craven Cottage.

According to Lyall Thomas of Sky Sports, the Premier League club have identified the 22-year-old striker as a leading priority to fill the attacking vacancy left by the high-profile departure of Raul Jimenez.

Arbeloa looking towards Real Madrid for reinforcements
Arbeloa, who was officially announced as Fulham's new manager on Tuesday night following the exit of Marco Silva, has immediately looked to his former club to reinforce the frontline.

The connection between Gonzalo and Arbeloa is quite strong. Not only do they share the same representative agency, but the striker also enjoyed an increase in prominence at the Santiago Bernabeu after Arbeloa stepped in to succeed Xabi Alonso as Real Madrid manager.

Garcia has built up valuable top-flight experience in Spain, racking up 35 La Liga appearances since making his senior competitive debut for Real Madrid back in 2023.

The Spanish centre-forward found the back of the net six times last season, showing his clinical nature and sharp movement in and around the box – qualities that Arbeloa believes can help him seamlessly adapt to the demands of Premier League football.

Gonzalo might not be the only target
As per the report, Fulham's recruitment department has mapped out a busy summer window, with the board prioritising immediate additions at centre-forward, on the wings, and across the central midfield.

Insiders close to the London outfit understand that Arbeloa is keen to expand his raid on the Spanish capital club, with the manager actively pushing to bring more than just one Real Madrid academy graduate across to Craven Cottage.

As already reported today, the Spanish tactician is also exploring the idea of bringing in Franco Mastantuono on loan.

However, Jose Mourinho, who has succeeded Arbeloa at the Santiago Bernabeu, intends to see both Gonzalo and Mastantuono in action in pre-season before deciding on whether to retain them or let them leave.

For now, though, Gonzalo has emerged as a leading target for Arbeloa at his new club, and it remains to be seen if a move goes through.



https://madriduniversal.com/real-madrid-forward-emerges-as-a-leading-target-for-arbeloa-at-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Álvaro Arbeloa wants to reunite with a Real Madrid star at Fulham
New Fulham head coach Álvaro Arbeloa is eager to link back up with a member of the attacking ranks at Real Madrid in London this summer.

This comes amid the understanding that the Spaniard has set his sights on a deal for fellow countryman Gonzalo García.

Striker Gonzalo has for his part been heavily linked with a departure from Real Madrid with a view to next season. Amid stiff competition for places in the attacking ranks of incoming boss José Mourinho, the 22-year-old has been tipped to make way.

Gonzalo played something of a bit part role at the Bernabéu in 2025/26, managing just 15 starts across all competitions. The frontman nevertheless managed to find the net a respectable eight times, though.

And Gonzalo's exploits in front of goal evidently proved enough to impress his manager for the 2nd half of the term.

As per a report from journalist Pete O'Rourke of Footy Insider:

'Fulham have made Real Madrid striker Gonzalo García their top target as Álvaro Arbeloa looks to bring in a new striker to Craven Cottage.'

https://x.com/SportsPeteO/status/2074775050197062123



https://getfootballnewsspain.com/alvaro-arbeloa-wants-to-reunite-with-a-real-madrid-star-at-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham prioritising summer move for Gonzalo Garcia
Fulham identify Real Madrid attacking sensation Gonzalo Garcia as a top target following Alvaro Arbeloa's appointment.

According to a report from Football Insider, Fulham are preparing an ambitious move for Real Madrid forward Gonzalo Garcia, with the Spanish youngster emerging as Alvaro Arbeloa's top transfer target following his appointment at Craven Cottage.

Arbeloa was officially confirmed as Fulham's new head coach on Tuesday, and the club have wasted little time in identifying potential reinforcements for the former Real Madrid manager.

The Cottagers are now ready to make Garcia the first signing of the Arbeloa era, with the new boss eager to work with Garcia again. The pair have worked closely together at Real Madrid, with Arbeloa overseeing Garcia's development in the youth setup before managing him in the first-team environment in the second half of last season.

Fulham to push hard for Garcia's signature
That existing relationship could prove crucial as the London club look to convince one of Spain's brightest young attacking talents to make the switch to the Premier League.

Garcia enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in 2025/26, finishing with 12 goals and four assists across all competitions. His performances at the Club World Cup last summer significantly enhanced his reputation with four goals in six appearances, while in La Liga he scored six times despite starting only nine league matches, underlining his clinical finishing ability.

Garcia had already established himself as one of Real Madrid's standout academy prospects after excelling for Castilla in the Spanish third tier, and last season finally offered him the opportunity to showcase his talent at senior level.

However, securing regular starting football at Real Madrid remains difficult. With Los Blancos boasting one of the strongest attacking squads in Europe, Garcia's pathway to consistent first-team football is far from straightforward.

That situation has alerted Fulham, who believe they can offer the 22-year-old a far bigger role in the Premier League. Arbeloa is understood to be a driving force behind the club's interest, believing Garcia suits his attacking philosophy. Rodrigo Muniz is the only established striker at the London club, so the Madrid graduate, with his fluid style, could be a great fit for them.

Los Blancos could actually look to cash in on the youngster given the kind of depth they have up top. However, they are unlikely to let him leave on the cheap and could also look for a significant sell-on clause or a buy-back option.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/09/fulham-prioritising-summer-move-for-gonzalo-garcia/

[WhiteJC]

Everything Fulham fans should expect from Arbeloa after Real Madrid raid
Alvaro Arbeloa to Fulham brings fresh ideas and familiar challenges

Fulham have made their call. Alvaro Arbeloa is the new manager, on a three-year deal, and the job in front of him is clear enough. Marco Silva is gone after leaving for Benfica at the end of his contract, and Fulham have turned to a coach with strong pedigree, limited senior experience and a very obvious brief, keep the club moving forward without tearing up what already works.

That sounds simple. It rarely is.

Arbeloa arrives after working his way through the Real Madrid academy and then stepping into the senior picture as interim boss after Xabi Alonso's dismissal in January. This is his first permanent senior managerial post, which matters. Academy coaching and short-term senior management are useful background, but they are not the same as owning a Premier League season from August to May.

Fulham manager faces immediate pressure
Fulham are no longer a club whose main achievement is surviving. Silva changed that. He gave them structure, credibility and consistency after years of bouncing between divisions. Since returning to the Premier League in 2022, they have looked like a settled top-flight side and have also kept making respectable cup runs, reaching at least a quarter-final in either the FA Cup or Carabao Cup in each season.

That is the baseline now. Arbeloa is not walking into a rescue mission. He is walking into expectation.

The attraction for Fulham owner Shahid Khan appears obvious. Arbeloa sold an attacking vision and placed real emphasis on youth development. Given Fulham have one of the oldest squads in the division, that is understandable. Clubs do not stay still in this league. If your squad ages together, your level usually drops with it.

Reports suggest Arbeloa has already identified three Real Madrid youngsters, Franco Mastantuono, Fran Garcia and Gonzalo Garcia, as possible additions. Whether Fulham can land all or any of them is another matter, but the theme is plain. He wants energy, technical quality and players moulded to his football.

Premier League tactics point to continuity
This is where the appointment makes sense. Arbeloa's tactical ideas are not wildly different from the ones Fulham already know. His default shape has been an aggressive 4-3-3, with a high press, adventurous full-backs and a proper holding midfielder protecting the defence. Fulham have worked with similar principles under Silva, even if the starting formation often looked more like a 4-2-3-1 before shifting in possession.

So the transition should be manageable. Antonee Robinson looks especially important in this setup, because he can give Arbeloa exactly what he wants from a full-back, pace, width, recovery speed and leadership. Fulham's existing structure should help too. This is not a squad in need of tactical re-education from scratch.

Arbeloa has also shown some flexibility. Last season he used a 4-4-2 effectively to tighten up Real Madrid after a damaging 4-2 defeat to Benfica in the Champions League. That matters because the Premier League punishes ideological rigidity. Coaches who insist on one pattern regardless of context usually get found out.

Youth recruitment must not ignore experience
Still, there is a risk here. When a new manager arrives with ideas, contacts and enthusiasm, the temptation is to overcorrect. Fulham should resist that. Silva's recruitment model was built around identifying undervalued players, many with Premier League experience, and improving them in a lower-pressure environment than the established elite can offer. It was practical and smart.

If Arbeloa shifts too quickly toward youth-led recruitment, especially from abroad, he could weaken the reliability that has underpinned Fulham's progress. Young talent is useful. Proven leadership is essential.

That balance will be even more important because Fulham need goals replaced. Raul Jimenez has gone to Wolves, and Harry Wilson's output also has to be covered after a season in which he was voted player of the year. Between them, Fulham are losing a major share of last season's attacking production. Replacing 19 of 47 league goals is not a minor squad tweak. It is a central problem.

Predicted Fulham XI under Alvaro Arbeloa
The projected shape for the opening game gives a rough idea of where this could go, Leno in goal, Tete, Andersen, Bassey and Robinson across the back, Berge and Iwobi in midfield, with Bobb, Mastantuono and Garcia supporting Kevin up front.

There is ambition in that lineup, and there is also uncertainty. That is normal. Arbeloa has enough tactical overlap with Silva to avoid a messy reset, but enough of his own ideas to reshape the side over time.

Fulham have chosen evolution with a bit of edge. Now comes the hard part, proving that a promising coach can turn a stable club into something more.



https://eplindex.com/148150/everything-fulham-fans-should-expect-from-arbeloa-after-real-madrid-raid.html

[I Ronic]

Shall we just call Thursday's Alvaroday?

[onecupsoon]

With up to 6 RM players linked we should probably revisit the white shorts debate!

[I Ronic]

With up to 6 RM players linked we should probably revisit the white shorts debate!

And revive 'VIVA EL FULHAM'

[WindyCity]

Please, black shorts for new season CC games.
Appears AA 3 top targets all loanees.  I know it's all part of the game, but never have been big fan of loans.  Unless/hopefully attached with buy option.....

[Bassey the warrior]

Impossible to know whether there's any substance to these rumours or just putting two and two together and making five.

[sunburywhite]

Wilson was brought in as Marco Silva's first signing alongside Paulo Gazzaniga

I have to admit I forgot about Gazzaniga and had to look him up

Fulham
On 24 July 2021, Gazzaniga joined EFL Championship club Fulham on a two-year contract. A backup to Marek Rodák during his first year, he was pushed to third choice keeper with the arrival of Bernd Leno in August 2022. He was released by the London club at the conclusion of 2022–23 season.

[F(f)CUK]

Wilson was brought in as Marco Silva's first signing alongside Paulo Gazzaniga

I have to admit I forgot about Gazzaniga and had to look him up

Fulham
On 24 July 2021, Gazzaniga joined EFL Championship club Fulham on a two-year contract. A backup to Marek Rodák during his first year, he was pushed to third choice keeper with the arrival of Bernd Leno in August 2022. He was released by the London club at the conclusion of 2022–23 season.

He was brought in to be our starting keeper but wasn't good enough and was benched for Rodak.