Saturday Fulham Stuff - 11/07/26...

[WhiteJC]

World Cup 2026: Morocco's journey ended by France

Issa Diop's maiden World Cup journey is at an end, following Morocco's 2-0 defeat by France in the competition's first Quarter-Final on Thursday.

It has been another excellent campaign for the Moroccans, but the favourites for the trophy had too much for them in the end.

Kylian Mbappe made amends for a missed first half penalty when he brilliantly curled around Diop and inside the far post, before Ousmane Dembélé made the game safe with another placed effort.

A disappointing end to the World Cup for Issa, but he and his teammates can hold their heads high after another very positive campaign.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/july/10/world-cup-2026-moroccos-journey-ended-by-france/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham join race for Southampton star as Leeds United pursuit stutters
Southampton will be resigned to losing Shea Charles at some point this summer, and more and more clubs are taking an interest in their star.

Southampton are likely to lose Shea Charles this summer and as a move to Leeds United stalls, Fulham and Crystal Palace have taken interest.

Southampton were expecting plenty of interest in Shea Charles this summer after his excellent campaign. However, they are not prepared to let their midfielder go easily amid links to the Premier League.

Leeds United have had several bids rejected for Charles, and now two other Premier League sides are looking to swoop in. Alex Crook has said that Fulham and Crystal Palace are looking into a deal to sign Charles.

Southampton are understood to be seeking around £30 million to sanction Shea Charles' departure this summer.

The midfielder has entered the final year of his contract at St Mary's, having joined the club from Manchester City in 2023. City are entitled to 15% of any future transfer fee through a sell-on clause included in the deal that brought Charles to Southampton.

Southampton must be wary to let this drag out
Charles has spent just three years at Southampton since arriving from Manchester City. However, a fee in the region of £30m would still represent an excellent return on the club's investment.

With Southampton preparing for another season in the Championship, keeping hold of one of their stars will be a difficult. Rejecting Leeds United's offers could prove risky if the club, or another interested side, do not return with an improved bid later in the window.

At 22, Charles is unlikely to be keen on signing a new long-term contract. The chance to return to the Premier League is expected to be an attractive prospect. Southampton may therefore be better off cashing in this summer while his value remains high.

Selling Charles early in the transfer window would also give Southampton more time to identify and recruit a suitable replacement. Players of his quality are difficult to replace, so securing funds sooner rather than later would give Tonda Eckert greater flexibility to reshape his squad and prepare for the 2026/27 campaign.

Shea Charles' stats for Southampton

Games	Goals	Assists
76	6	2

The Verdict: Southampton do not need to take any risks with Charles and other exits
Southampton cannot afford to get their transfer business wrong this summer. Although they are in a stronger position than Leicester City, they must avoid repeating the mistakes that ultimately cost the Foxes last season.

The Saints should be prepared to part ways with players who are unwilling to commit to another Championship campaign. Even if key figures such as Charles depart, the foundations of a competitive squad remain firmly in place.

This summer represents Eckert's first genuine opportunity to shape the squad in his own image. He deserves the chance to build a team that reflects his vision, starting with this transfer window.



https://the72.co.uk/2026/07/10/fulham-join-shea-charles-race/

[WhiteJC]

Sky Sports: Crystal Palace and Fulham join the race for midfielder
Crystal Palace Enter Shea Charles Picture as Midfield Interest Grows

Crystal Palace are monitoring the situation surrounding Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, according to Sky Sports, with Fulham also showing interest as Leeds United continue their efforts to strike a deal for the Northern Ireland international.

The latest update suggests that Palace have not yet made formal contact with Southampton, although their presence in the race reflects growing admiration for one of the Championship's most promising midfielders.

Leeds Continue to Push
According to Sky Sports News' Mark McAdam and James Savundra, Leeds remain the most active club in pursuit of Charles.

The report states: "Leeds have made two offers for Charles in talks with Southampton that have fallen short of the Championship club's valuation."

That immediately indicates Southampton are under little pressure to compromise on their asking price. Charles is still viewed as a player with considerable long term value and, importantly, his contractual position strengthens the club's negotiating stance.

As highlighted in the report: "He effectively has two years on his deal thanks to a one-year option."

That extra security gives Southampton the flexibility to wait for an offer they believe reflects the midfielder's true market value.

Palace Monitoring Midfield Market
Crystal Palace's inclusion among the interested clubs is intriguing, particularly after recent business in midfield.

Sky Sports reports: "Crystal Palace and Fulham are interested in Southampton midfielder Shea Charles."

Equally significant is another line from the report: "Sky Sports News understands neither Palace nor Fulham have initiated contact with Southampton at this stage."

That suggests interest remains at an exploratory stage rather than an advanced negotiation.

With Pierre Sage beginning to shape his first squad at Selhurst Park, it is understandable that Palace are assessing several midfield profiles before deciding where to invest. Charles offers energy, tactical intelligence and room for development, qualities that fit the recruitment model Palace have increasingly favoured in recent seasons.

Meanwhile, the club have already removed one area of uncertainty after "Palace this week sealed the commitment of midfielder Daichi Kamada to a new one-year contract, ending the uncertainty over his future."

Retaining Kamada provides experience and creativity, although it does not necessarily rule out further additions.

Southampton Hold Strong Position
Southampton appear content to remain patient.

With Leeds yet to meet the valuation and Premier League clubs now watching developments, there is little incentive to lower expectations. Increased interest could even strengthen Southampton's bargaining position if multiple clubs eventually move beyond monitoring.

Charles has continued to build his reputation through composed performances in midfield and his international experience with Northern Ireland only adds to his appeal. It is easy to understand why clubs across both the Premier League and Championship are keeping a close eye on his situation.

For Palace, this feels like sensible market awareness rather than an imminent transfer. Recruitment departments regularly monitor emerging opportunities before deciding whether to accelerate discussions, particularly when valuations remain fluid.

Transfer Decision Could Develop Quickly
Should Leeds return with an improved proposal, events could move quickly. Equally, if Southampton continue to hold firm, Palace and Fulham may yet decide that the timing is right to test the waters.

For now, the key message from Sky Sports is clear. Interest exists, conversations have not yet begun, and Southampton remain firmly in control of the situation.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis
From a Crystal Palace perspective, this report feels like the type of story worth monitoring rather than one that demands immediate excitement. Pierre Sage has inherited a squad with quality in midfield, particularly after Daichi Kamada committed to another year, but Palace supporters know another energetic option could still be valuable across a demanding Premier League season.

Shea Charles fits the age profile Palace have regularly targeted. He has already shown maturity beyond his years, covers ground well and looks comfortable receiving possession under pressure. Those qualities are attractive for any manager wanting a midfield capable of controlling matches through intensity and intelligence.

The biggest question is whether Charles would arrive as an immediate starter or as another player developing behind established names. Palace fans will naturally want additions who strengthen the first eleven, especially after recent progress as a club.

Supporters are also likely to appreciate the measured approach suggested in this report. There is no indication Palace have rushed into negotiations, which reflects a recruitment strategy that has generally become more disciplined in recent years. Monitoring the situation before making a move is sensible business, particularly if Leeds eventually establish the market price.

If Southampton soften their valuation or Leeds fail to complete a deal, Palace could find themselves in an excellent position to act. Until then, this looks like intelligent scouting rather than a transfer approaching completion.



https://eplindex.com/148226/sky-sports-crystal-palace-and-fulham-join-the-race-for-midfielder.html

[WhiteJC]

Alvaro Arbeloa has inherited a centre-back conundrum
Our new boss has a potential problem on his hands.

A year ago, Luc De Fougerolles was simply viewed as a promising young academy graduate gaining experience on loan in Belgium, reflected in the club only writing four sentences announcing his departure to Dender.

This summer, he returns to Fulham after helping Canada reach the World Cup knockout stages and looking increasingly ready for Premier League football. At just 20 years old, he became a mainstay at the heart of Canada's defence and was a joy to watch.

De Fougerolles isn't the only Fulham centre-half on the receiving end of plaudits; a rejuvenated Issa Diop has been one of Morocco's standout performers en route to their exit to France yesterday in the quarter-finals.

His towering header against the Netherlands was an apt reward for an imperious performance, putting the team on his back. After being criticised for lapses in concentration in the past, Diop has looked composed, dependable and dominant in the air.

Fulham now have a problem most clubs would envy. Calvin Bassey, Joachim Andersen, Jorge Cuenca, Issa Diop and Luc De Fougerolles can all make a credible claim for significant minutes next season.

Alvaro Arbeloa has inherited depth, competition and quality in that area. But does he really have room for all of them?

After Xabi Alonso departed Real Madrid last year, Arbeloa took the reigns and reverted to his favoured tactics. Real started progressing through the transitions quickly, deployed a higher defensive line - and stronger intensity followed.

His sides require centre-backs to contribute in possession, prompting them to step into midfield with passion – and to be comfortable defending the spaces in behind.

If one centre-back feels like they fit that mould, it's Bassey.

Last season he showcased two of the main attributes; covering the space behind the defensive line and developing the ability to carry the ball into midfield. Calvin spent a much of last season playing the way Arbeloa wants to and it might also suggest why Fulham hired the Spaniard to succeed Silva.

It's strange to write this as an Andersen truther, but the Dane could be vulnerable.

While he has the tools in his toolkit, especially from a distribution angle – it's his legs that might cost him. Last year he was exposed by runners in behind more regularly, with Bassey playing clean up.

Andersen can turn defence into attack with those trademark diagonal passes and is still chief organiser, but the question is whether that outweighs the lack of pace for Arbeloa.

Jorge Cuenca shone when Bassey was at AFCON, and his flashes of brilliance could put him in with a shout of starting.

He covers ground, takes care of the ball and few players in the squad are more familiar with Arbeloa's Spanish style of football. But the links to Benfica haven't gone away, and De Fougerolles plays a similar style of football, albeit right-footed.

There is no clear odd-man-out for Fulham, but less than a week into his tenure Arbeloa might be forced into a bigger decision. If De Fougerolles really has broken out, Diop can maintain his levels, and Bassey continues to perform, then Fulham could enter next season with five centre-backs competing for two spots.

This summer could be a case of who starts, and who stays?



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/alvaro-arbeloa-has-inherited-a-centre

[WhiteJC]

"What they tell me..." – Arbeloa has work to do on potential Fulham transfer
Alvaro Arbeloa has work to do with former club Real Madrid if he wants sign Franco Mastantuono for Fulham this summer.

Defensa Central and journalist José Miguel Villarroya cover the situation today and how signing the 18-year-old may not be an easy deal to get over the line.

Arbeloa's transfer plans
Arbeloa was confirmed as Fulham's new manager last week following Marco Silva's departure earlier this summer.

The Spanish coach will want to put his stamp on the squad he has inherited. That's particularly necessary with several high-profile departures from Fulham this summer such as Harry Wilson and Raul Jimenez.

That need for signings has quickly seen reports link him with his former players at Real Madrid. Sport Witness have already covered various reports to that effect.

The first of those explained that Arbeloa was keen on Real Madrid youngster Manuel Ángel.

A second report then insisted that César Palacios was on the Spaniard's transfer wish list as well. Separate reports have then thrown Franco Mastantuono into the mix as well.

Real Madrid plans
But according to Villarroya, the Argentine may be out of Fulham's grasp. He's been told that Real Madrid have grander ambitions for the Argentine this summer.

"There are rumours that Arbeloa's Fulham are looking to sign some of the academy players whom Arbeloa brought into the first team and gave their debuts whilst he was there," he said.

"Obviously, there is talk that, should Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo fail to impress Mourinho, Fulham could well be an option for them.

"But in Mastantuono's case, what I'm being told is that they'd prefer him to join a team competing in European competitions."

That obviously sounds quite negative for Fulham. However, it may not be entirely over. Florentino Perez has long had a soft spot for Arbeloa, and a personal phone call assuring minutes and progress is worth a try.

From Mastantuono's perspective, he's worked with the manager before. That's another positive for Fulham to cling to.

Key points on transfer

    Fulham would be starting from a disadvantaged point
    Need to use Arbeloa personal connections
    Mastantuono can play on the right or through the middle
    Real Madrid would almost certainly want a loan fee



https://sportwitness.co.uk/what-they-tell-me-arbeloa-has-work-to-do-on-potential-fulham-transfer/

[WhiteJC]

Crystal Palace, Fulham 'join' Leeds United in race for Northern Ireland international this summer
Crystal Palace and Fulham have reportedly joined Leeds United in the race for Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.

Daniel Farke's side have been extensively linked with the 22-year-old over the course of the summer so far, supposedly weighing up a move for the player before submitting bids for his talents.

The Elland Road club have already secured a high-profile signature this summer, with Wales international Harry Wilson joining the Yorkshire side following the expiration of his terms at Fulham.

After a 14th-placed finish in the Premier League during 2025-26, there is an appetite from those of a Leeds persuasion to kick on and compete in the top half of the league standings next term.

Charles's Southampton missed out on a shot at promotion to the Premier League after being expelled from the Championship playoff final by the EFL for spying on opposition training sessions.

Palace, Fulham join Leeds in Charles hunt?
According to Sky Sports News, two other Premier League contenders have joined Leeds in the race for Southampton star Charles, who featured 31 times in the Championship last term, scoring on three occasions.

The report claims that Fulham and Conference League champions Crystal Palace are interested in securing the services of the 22-year-old ahead of the new season, in which both will be under new management in the dugout.

It is understood that both the Cottagers and the Eagles are yet to make contact with either Charles or Southampton over a potential deal, with that next step likely to arrive in the coming weeks.

It is said that Farke's Leeds outfit have already submitted two offers for the Northern Irishman, however, the Saints swiftly rejected both as they did not meet the South Coast club's valuation of the player.

Charles's St Mary's Stadium contract expires at the conclusion of next season, although there is an option for the club to extend those terms by a further 12 months until the summer of 2028.

Premier League suitors for Charles
After a standout campaign for strugglers Sheffield Wednesday in 2024-25, Charles returned to Southampton last summer and became one of the star players of a rollercoaster campaign for the Saints.

The 22-year-old provided eight goal contributions in all competitions as Tonda Eckert's side conquered Arsenal in the FA Cup and qualified for the playoff final - before being kicked out of the latter by the EFL.

Charles has also made waves on the international scene over the past 12 months, helping Northern Ireland to reach the World Cup playoffs and grabbing an assist in a friendly match versus France last month.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/crystal-palace/transfer-talk/news/three-horse-race-palace-fulham-join-leeds-in-hunt-for-northern-ireland-midfielder_601000.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham rival Crystal Palace, Leeds United in Shea Charles chase
Fulham are all set to battle Crystal Palace and Leeds United in their pursuit of Southampton midfield sensation Shea Charles.

Fulham have entered the race to sign Southampton midfielder Shea Charles, setting up a three-way battle with Crystal Palace and Leeds United for one of the Championship's most highly-rated young midfielders.

According to Sky Sports, both Fulham and Crystal Palace are interested in the Northern Ireland international, although neither Premier League club has yet opened formal talks with Southampton over a potential transfer.

Leeds United remain the most advanced of the three suitors. Daniel Farke's side have already submitted two offers for Charles, but both bids have fallen short of Southampton's valuation.

Despite those setbacks, the West Yorkshire outfit have not abandoned their pursuit and continue to work on a deal for the 22-year-old. The Manchester City youth product made the move to the Saints in the summer of 2023 in search of a prominent role. He eventually managed to establish himself as a key figure in the team and played a big role in their push for promotion last season.

The defensive midfielder was involved in 38 matches last term and even contributed towards eight goals. However, his efforts went in vain as Southampton were removed from the play-off final because of spying on three teams. He couldn't secure a return to the Premier League with the Saints, but his performances have impressed top-flight clubs, and they are ready to sign him.

Charles is effectively tied down for another two years as Southampton have a one-year extension option in his contract, strengthening their negotiating position and allowing the Championship club to hold firm on their asking price.

Premier League trio to battle for Charles
Leeds United already have quite a few options in midfield, but they view the 22-year-old as someone who can significantly strengthen their midfield rotation and be a part of their long-term plans. However, they will face serious competition for his signature. Soccer

Fulham are keen on adding more quality and depth to their midfield, with Sander Berge the only out-and-out defensive midfielder in their ranks. Charles's versatility, composure in possession and defensive work rate make him an attractive option for clubs seeking a long-term investment.

Crystal Palace are also monitoring the situation closely. However, the Eagles recently secured an important piece of business by convincing Daichi Kamada to sign a new one-year contract, ending uncertainty surrounding the Japan international's future. But with Adam Wharton's future still up in the air despite recent suggestions to the contrary, investing in Charles would make a lot of sense.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/10/fulham-rival-crystal-palace-leeds-united-in-shea-charles-chase/

[WhiteJC]

How much money Crystal Palace or Fulham must pay Southampton to sign Shea Charles
Southampton's second successive year as a Championship club has now got underway in terms of pre-season training, but it is fair to say that there is still plenty of uncertainty surrounding the South Coast outfit at this moment in time.

It has been well-documented that Saints are still being left to feel the repercussions of the Spygate scandal which dominated headlines throughout last season's Championship play-off campaign, after Tonda Eckert was initially able to generate such a strong run of results at St Mary's following his appointment last December.

After admitting to three counts of 'spying', Southampton were expelled from the play-off final and replaced by eventual Wembley losers, Middlesbrough, and will now begin the current campaign on a four-point deduction as a result.

Despite such a punishment being handed out by the governing body, many would still expect Saints to be able to compete for the play-off positions throughout the upcoming 10 months if they can immediately wipe out the deduction by earning two victories, although it is still yet to be seen whether Eckert will take charge of the season opener against Watford on August 16th, with the FA still reportedly locked in discussions with the German through their own investigation into the matter.

Transfer speculation has also been rife on the outgoings front, with the trio of Taylor Harwood-Bellis, Leo Scienza and Shea Charles attracting significant interest.

And, with that said, a new update has now emerged on the future of the Northern Ireland international midfielder.

How much money Southampton are demanding for Shea Charles as Crystal Palace and Fulham rival Leeds United
Charles has seen his stock rise rapidly in the past year or so in Hampshire, after previously impressing on loan in the Championship with Sheffield Wednesday under former Saints assistant coach, Danny Rohl.

The 22-year-old initially signed for Southampton under Russell Martin three summers ago for a deal which could have reportedly risen as high as £15m from then-Premier League champions, Manchester City.

However, under Will Still and the aforementioned Eckert, the highly-rated midfielder burst into life this season on the goalscoring front, netting six times in all competitions, including a famous winner against Arsenal in the FA Cup quarter-final on April 4th, as well as a stunning strike against Middlesbrough in the play-off semi-final second leg, which ultimately came to no avail as a result of Spygate.

The 35-time international has since been the subject of increasingly strong transfer interest, with Leeds United seeing two bids turned down for his services in the opening month of the summer window.

It has been widely reported that the Whites were unsuccessful with bids marked at £20m and £23m respectively, and now talkSPORT have revealed that Southampton are holding out for a £30m sum of cash as Fulham and Crystal Palace become the two latest clubs to enter this particular transfer battle.

Both London outfits are under new management heading into next season too, with Pierre Sage and Alvaro Arbeloa taking charge at Selhurst Park and Craven Cottage respectively, whilst the Eagles have a season in the UEFA Europa League to also prepare for after ending Oliver Glasner's tenure with a UEFA Conference League triumph over Rayo Vallecano.

Southampton's latest Shea Charles valuation isn't the greatest of surprises
With several clubs now interested in Charles' signature, it shouldn't come as the greatest of surprises that Southampton appear to have raised the price-tag on his shoulders, especially when factoring in his future ceiling.

Many Southampton fans were already resigned to the likelihood of losing their prized asset after promotion was secured, and now if one of the three aforementioned sides, or another potential suitor enters the fray, it will continue to feel like a question of 'when', rather than 'if', their midfield maestro exits St Mary's.

However, with several other key names attracting interest, while the club is still in receipt of parachute payments, there is a strong chance whoever takes charge this season will have a strong sum of cash to work with when it comes to overseeing a reshuffle of the squad, while also ensuring it is in the best possible condition to compete for promotion once more.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/how-much-crystal-palace-fulham-pay-southampton-shea-charles/

[WhiteJC]

Real Madrid open door for Alvaro Arbeloa to sign forward for Fulham
Real Madrid are focusing on exits for the time being, and they could be about to let multiple players join Alvaro Arbeloa at Fulham. The Premier League side are interested in both Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia, and in regards to the former, the door for a possible summer departure looks set to be opened.

Mastantuono had a difficult first season at Real Madrid following his move from River Plate last summer. He failed to nail down a regular starting spot, and with Jose Mourinho likely to follow this pattern, a temporary exit has been floated – especially when seeing how beneficial Endrick Felipe's was during the second half of last season.

Juventus have previously shown interest in Mastantuono, but more recently, a switch to Fulham has appeared more likely – especially with Arbeloa having taken over at Craven Cottage as manager. There is a good chance that he ends up in London, with MD reporting that a loan exit is on the agenda.

Mourinho will make final call on Mastantuono
For the moment, nothing has been defined, as the final decision will be made by Mourinho, who intends to run the rule over Mastantuono during pre-season. If he manages to impress the Real Madrid head coach, he will almost certainly stay, which would be a blow for Arbeloa and Fulham. On the other hand, a departure would be very much on the cards if he did not make his mark over the next few weeks.

Real Madrid have several options that can play on the right side of attack, including new signing Bernardo Silva. There is no guarantee that Mastantuono will be able to secure a regular starting spot, which is why it would be wise to consider an exit – especially to Fulham, which could be ideal for his development in that he would play under a familiar manager and in a league that will make him a better player.



https://siempremadrid.com/real-madrid-open-door-for-alvaro-arbeloa-to-sign-forward-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Lazio Enquire About Croatian Midfielder Wanted at Fulham During Dominguez Meeting
Lazio are keeping tabs on Dinamo Zagreb midfielder Luka Stojkovic, who also has other suitors around Europe, including Fulham.

Lazio & Dinamo Zagreb Negotiating a Deal for Sergi Dominguez
On Thursday, Lazio sporting director Angelo Fabiani landed in Split for a meeting with Dinamo Zagreb officials. The discussions centered around Sergi Dominguez, a young Spanish defender who emerged as the Aquile's first choice to replace Mario Gila, who has been sold to AC Milan.

According to Il Messaggero, the two parties were able to close the gap, but they have yet to reach a definitive agreement for the 21-year-old defender. While Dinamo Zagreb agreed to lower their asking price to €12 million, Lazio are still offering a fixed fee of €9-10 million, while proposing to pay the remaining part through bonuses.

Lazio Ask Dinamo Zagreb About Luka Stojkovic
The Roman newspaper adds that Fabiani also seized the opportunity to enquire about Stojkovic, an attacking midfielder highly admired by Gennaro Gattuso. After all, the Biancocelesti missed out on signing Bayern Munich's Jonathan Asp Jensen, who will instead sign for Deportivo La Coruña, so they're searching the market for an alternative.

However, signing Stojkovic won't be easy, as he's coming off a sensational campaign that piqued interest in his services. The 22-year-old delivered 13 goals and 12 assists last term, playing an integral role in Dinamo's domestic double triumph.

Fulham Competition & Dinamo Zagreb's Asking Price
The source claims Fulham and Bologna are also interested in the services of the creative midfielder. In addition to the stern competition, signing Stojkovic will be a challenging task for Lazio due to Dinamo's €10 million valuation. The Zagreb native's contract is valid until June 2028.



https://thelaziali.com/2026/07/10/lazio-enquire-fulham-luka-stojkovic-dinamo-zagreb/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham surge into contention for £25m star in first signing for Arbeloa
Fulham are looking to make the first signing of the Alvaro Arbeloa era, having confirmed the appointment of the former Real Madrid manager earlier this week.

Speaking after his arrival, Arbeloa said: "It is a real honour for me to be embarking on this new stage at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London. I feel a great sense of responsibility and I'm deeply grateful to Mr. Khan and Tony Khan for the trust they have placed in me with Fulham in the Premier League.

"I am really looking forward to experiencing the atmosphere at Craven Cottage with Fulham fans and beginning pre-season with the players next week. I am sure we are going to enjoy an incredible journey together."

Having brought in a successor to Marco Silva, the Cottagers' next task will be strengthening the squad in the transfer market, and they have now entered contention to sign Southampton midfielder Shea Charles.

Football FanCast's Verdict

Credibility	Fulham are known to be keen on signing a midfielder, alongside a centre-forward and winger. With Sander Berge attracting interest, strengthening in the middle of the park may be particularly important, so Charles could be a savvy addition.
Finances	Amid interest from Premier League rivals Leeds United, the Northern Irishman has been valued at around £25m, so the Cottagers may have to shell out a relatively big fee to get a deal done.
Insight	The midfielder has only ever made one appearance in the Premier League, but he is experienced at Championship level, picking up four goals and seven assists in 106 matches.
Impact	Like Berge, the Southampton star primarily flourishes in a defensive role, so he could be brought in as a direct replacement for the Norway international.

Fulham keen on signing Southampton's Shea Charles
A report from Sky Sports has revealed Fulham have now entered the race to sign Charles, alongside Leeds and Crystal Palace.

The 22-year-old has just one year remaining on his contract at St. Mary's, but the Saints have an option to extend it by an additional year, putting them in a strong negotiating position.

Shea Charles could be "outstanding" addition to Arbeloa's midfield
Should the 35-cap Northern Ireland star become Arbeloa's first signing, he could be a fantastic addition, having been praised by international boss Michael O'Neill, who said: "I thought Shea was outstanding, I have to say. Out of possession, the amount of balls he recovered and won from being second favourite. And then to use the ball the way he does."

In the Championship last season, the Southampton star showcased his defensive solidity by averaging 2.1 tackles per 90, whereas Berge averaged 1.8 tackles per 90 for Fulham in the Premier League.

Importantly, the Manchester-born midfielder is also a well-rounded midfielder, as evidenced by his attacking talents, picking up six goals and two assists in 38 matches across all competitions last season.

Wirh Berge attracting interest from Manchester United, it could be difficult for Fulham to keep hold of him this summer, but Charles has the attributes to be a solid replacement.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-surge-into-contention-shea-charles-transfer-arbeloa/

[WhiteJC]

Real Madrid unwilling to loan Franco Mastantuono to Fulham
Real Madrid are expected to make further changes before the summer window closes, but departures may be necessary before additional signings can be completed.

Real Madrid want to reduce squad congestion, create financial flexibility and ensure their younger players are placed in environments where they can continue progressing. One of the most closely watched cases is Franco Mastantuono.

The 18-year-old endured a difficult first campaign in Spain, but Los Blancos remain convinced he possesses the technical quality to become an important player at the Santiago Bernabeu. The club believe he needs time to adapt physically and tactically to European football rather than being judged too quickly.

Fulham have been mentioned as a possible destination because new manager Alvaro Arbeloa knows several of Real Madrid's younger players from his previous work at the club. However, the Spanish giants are reportedly reluctant to send Mastantuono to Craven Cottage.

According to Defensa Central, the Merengues would prefer any loan move to place the Argentine at a club competing in European competition. They believe regular exposure to a higher competitive level would better prepare him for a future role in Madrid's first team.

No final decision has yet been made and Jose Mourinho wants to assess Mastantuono during pre-season before determining whether he should remain with the senior squad or leave temporarily. Gonzalo Garcia is also being evaluated under similar circumstances.

Why Real Madrid want a more demanding loan environment for Mastantuono
From a developmental perspective, Real Madrid's position is understandable. Mastantuono is not viewed as a winger who relies primarily on pace or explosive 1v1 ability. His best qualities emerge when he receives between the lines, turns in possession and creates through passing or shooting.

That profile suggests he may eventually be more effective as an attacking midfielder or advanced central player. A loan club would therefore need to offer more than minutes; it must provide a tactical structure that develops his decision-making in central areas. Soccer

European competition would expose him to varied defensive systems, faster tactical adjustments and higher-pressure matches. Real Madrid may feel that environment would reveal whether he can control games against elite opposition.

Fulham could offer Premier League experience and familiarity through Arbeloa, but Real Madrid appear to prioritise competitive level over personal connections. The risk is that a more prestigious club may offer fewer minutes, which would undermine the purpose of the loan.

Are Real Madrid right to rule out Fulham?
Real Madrid are right to seek the strongest possible environment, but European football should not be the only criterion. Mastantuono needs regular, meaningful minutes in a role that suits his qualities. If Fulham can offer him a central position and consistent starts, that may be more valuable than becoming a rotation player elsewhere. Mourinho's pre-season assessment should ultimately determine whether prestige or playing time matters more.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/10/real-madrid-unwilling-to-loan-franco-mastantuono-to-fulham/

[SP]

A shame if true:

https://barcauniversal.com/barcelona-changed-joan-gamper-trophy-plans-after-alvaro-arbeloas-appointment-at-fulham-report/

[WindyCity]

AA sides require centre-backs to contribute in possession, prompting them to step into midfield with passion – and to be comfortable defending the spaces in behind.

If accurate, Bassey may be the only CB that fills the order.  Other CB's in the team might fill part of the order, but lack completion.  JMHO.