Sunday Fulham Stuff - 26/07/26...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham better-placed than Fiorentina in Franco Mastantuono race
Fulham will have the upper hand in the race to sign 18-year-old Argentine wonderkid Franco Mastantuono from Real Madrid this summer.

According to a report by La Repubblica via Firenze Viola, Franco Mastantuono is also the subject of interest from Fiorentina. The Violets are keen on bolstering their offensive unit by signing a versatile wide attacker in the ongoing transfer window, and they have their sights set on the 18-year-old Real Madrid prospect.

However, per La Repubblica, Fulham's healthy working relationship with Real Madrid has given the West London club the upper hand in the race for his signature. That may force the Serie A club to look elsewhere for an attacking reinforcement.

How has Franco Mastantuono fared at Real Madrid?
Franco Mastantuono has had to remain patient since joining Real Madrid from River Plate last summer. The Spanish giants beat intense competition to secure his services, but the 18-year-old was not a regular starter in his debut season, as he has been a part of a stacked offensive unit at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Mastantuono has managed less than 1,500 minutes of game time in 35 appearances for Real Madird thus far while chipping in with three goals and one assist. However, the Argentine playmaker's stock remains high, with Fulham and Fiorentina among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
What next for Mastantuono?

Fulham's interest in Franco Mastantuono makes logical sense. Harry Wilson's departure as a free agent has created a productivity void in the Fulham attack, forcing them to pursue a replacement. Several candidates, including Martial Godo, have thus emerged on the West London club's wishlist, with

Mastantuono also a viable target.
As for Fiorentina, La Viola will overhaul the squad in the ongoing transfer window after struggling for most of the 2025/26 season. After avoiding relegation from Serie A, manager Fabio Grosso wants Fiorentina to address issues across the squad, including the attack.

However, with Fulham better-placed to sign the Argentine international, Fiorentina must explore alternative targets instead of fixating on the Real Madrid prospect. Several other wingers remain on their radar, and that also allows Fulham to move closer to a deal for Mastantuono.




https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/25/fulham-better-placed-than-fiorentina-in-franco-mastantuono-race/

[WhiteJC]

Tonda Eckert breaks silence on Shea Charles as Leeds and Fulham push
The Premier League interest in Shea Charles is mounting, with the Southampton midfielder attracting interest from Leeds United, Fulham, and Crystal Palace after performing well under Tonda Eckert.

A Northern Ireland international with 35 caps to his name already at just 22, Shea Charles scored six goals in 38 games for Southampton as they reached the play-offs. Injuries and rotation saw him start 24 of those appearances.

Leeds United have been interested in Charles for over a month now, with numerous offers made by Leeds to Southampton in their pursuit of the former Sheffield Wednesday midfielder. That was before Crystal Palace joined the race for Charles.

A Premier League midfielder in many ways, Southampton have stood firm in their valuation of Charles so far following a third and final bid being made by Leeds for the midfielder. Since then, it has emerged that Fulham have registered their interest in Charles.

Southampton manager Tonda Eckert speaks on Shea Charles situation
With the likes of Caspar Jander and Flynn Downes at the club, Southampton have quality options at the bas of midfield already. However, that hasn't stopped Tonda Eckert's side from caving in at a price below their expectations, even if it could help balance the books.

Graham Smyth of The Yorkshire Evening Post claims Leeds' offer remains on the table for the Saints, with the Whites unwilling to match Southampton's valuation currently. It's a deal that they may revisit later this summer, but interest appears to have cooled somewhat.

In recent days, Fulham have had a bid rejected for Charles. The offer, according to Simon Jones of The Daily Mail, was around £24 million. It means Charles remains a Southampton player as pre-season begins to ramp up.
Speaking via The Daily Echo, Eckert has cleared up the situation amid the growing Premier League interest. He states: "On the back of the season that he's played, I think it's more than clear that there's interest. I'm happy to have him around at the very moment.

"He's been excellent from the first day he came back. I think he's shown that he's on a good level to perform and I think the rest is for the club to sort."
Eckert and co. are currently underway with a pre-season camp in Germany, but a number of players involved may not be a part of their 2026/27 Championship push. That includes Charles, even if he has been professional thus far.

Fulham and Leeds United will have to be patient if they want Shea Charles
If Southampton remain firm on their valuation of Charles, Leeds and Fulham may ultimately have little choice but to pursue alternative midfield targets rather than becoming embroiled in a lengthy summer transfer saga.
With both clubs keen to strengthen before the season gets underway, tying up a significant portion of their budget in one difficult negotiation could prove to be risky. However, there is also an argument for remaining patient.

Southampton may feel under no immediate pressure to sell, but that situation could change as the transfer window progresses. Should the Championship outfit feel the need to raise funds, trim the wage bill, or finance further additions of their own, their negotiating position could weaken.

If that happens, Charles' asking price may become more realistic, allowing Leeds or Fulham to revisit a move later in the window on more favourable terms. It all depends on their need for a midfielder to be sought immediately or if it could be something they are willing to wait on, but this saga doesn't appear to be over just yet.




https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/tonda-eckert-breaks-silence-on-shea-charles-as-leeds-and-fulham-push/

[WhiteJC]

Mourinho backs Gonzalo Garcia as Fulham push for Real Madrid striker
While Real Madrid have addressed mainly the midfield and the defense so far this summer, there are also going to be some changes in their attack for the upcoming season. One of these changes has already taken place, namely, the return of Endrick from loan, while a blockbuster signing for the right wing is also seemingly in the works, with Yan Diomande closely being linked with them lately.

Kylian Mbappe, who will be returning to the club in a couple of weeks after having led his France team to the semi-finals of the World Cup 2026 and winning the Golden Boot with 10 goals, is set to remain the focal point in the center of the team's attack.

However, there is going to be some competition for the second spot in the pecking order for this role, as both Endrick and Gonzalo Garcia will be vying for minutes. The Brazilian is yet to return to the club after having participated in the World Cup, but the Spaniard has already been training under Mourinho in the preseason. In fact, Garcia has already impressed the new coach.

However, his future at Real Madrid remains quite uncertain. As Matteo Moretto has reported, the Portuguese manager admires the forward greatly and wants to have him under his command going into the next season. But the strong interest from the Premier League side Fulham, with Alvaro Arbeloa in charge of the team, could tempt the Merengues into parting ways with him.

The Spaniard is the London club's top transfer target, and they are prepared to pay a significant sum for his signing. The Premier League club is planning to get the player outright, but Real Madrid will retain a percentage of his future rights.

It remains to be seen how his future will pan out, but both of these are very exciting avenues for Gonzalo Garcia, and hopefully, he will make the best decision keeping in view his long-term career.



https://siempremadrid.com/mourinho-backs-gonzalo-garcia-as-fulham-push-for-real-madrid-striker/

[WhiteJC]

AS Roma eyeing summer move for Oscar Bobb
AS Roma are continuing their search for attacking reinforcements as Gian Piero Gasperini looks to reshape his forward line before the new Serie A season.

The Giallorossi remain determined to add greater pace, creativity and versatility in wide areas after missing out on several priority targets earlier in the transfer window. With the deal for Crysencio Summerville failing to materialise, Roma have broadened their search and are now assessing a number of alternative options capable of fitting Gasperini's tactical system.

One player who has emerged on the club's shortlist is Fulham winger Oscar Bobb. According to Retesport in Italy, Roma are considering a move for the 23-year-old Norway international, who only joined Fulham from Manchester City in January for approximately €30 million.

Bobb enhanced his growing reputation with a series of impressive performances for Norway during the World Cup, further increasing interest in one of the Premier League's most technically gifted young attackers.

Gasperini values Bobb's versatility
Roma believe Bobb's tactical flexibility makes him an attractive option and naturally left-footed, the Norwegian has spent most of his career operating from the right wing, where he can cut inside onto his stronger foot. However, he has also shown the ability to play on the left flank, giving Gasperini greater tactical variation across his attacking line.

Known for his close control, acceleration, and willingness to attack defenders directly, Bobb is viewed as a player with considerable room for further development despite not yet producing elite goalscoring numbers.

Roma see him as someone capable of strengthening their squad immediately while continuing to improve under Gasperini's guidance. His representatives also maintain a strong relationship with the Italian club, which could help facilitate discussions should Roma decide to pursue a formal offer.

Fulham face a huge decision so soon after signing Bobb
Any negotiations are unlikely to be straightforward as Fulham invested around €30 million to bring Bobb to Craven Cottage earlier this year and are not expected to welcome approaches unless a significant proposal is submitted.

Roma are currently exploring several attacking options, including Gabriel Martinelli, before deciding where to invest the majority of their remaining transfer budget. Bobb is regarded as one of the more intriguing possibilities, particularly after demonstrating his quality on the international stage. Whether the Italian side proceed with a formal bid may depend on developments involving other attacking targets over the coming weeks.

Oscar Bobb would represent an exciting addition for Roma, particularly under a coach like Gian Piero Gasperini, who has consistently improved technically gifted attacking players. His versatility and ability to play on either flank fit Roma's current needs perfectly.

However, convincing Fulham to sell so soon after investing €30 million could prove difficult unless the Giallorossi are prepared to make a substantial offer. At this stage, the interest appears genuine, but much will depend on Roma's remaining transfer budget and the club's priorities as the window enters its final weeks.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/07/25/as-roma-eyeing-summer-move-for-oscar-bobb/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 0-2 Norwich

Álvaro Arbeloa's Fulham were beaten in their first pre-season friendly, falling to a 2-0 defeat against Norwich at Motspur Park.

24 players gained valuable minutes against the Sky Bet Championship side, who are now unbeaten in all five of their pre-season matches so far.

The Canaries took the lead just inside 20 minutes when Mathias Kvistgaarden put a ball across for Anis Ben Slimane to slot home.

Bernd Leno had to be alert when Matěj Jurásek was sent bearing down on goal, but our 'keeper stood strong and batted away the attempted dink.

Kevin provided some dangerous moments as Fulham responded, but after the winger weaved his way into the box, his delicate effort was cleared away by a yellow shirt.

We forced travelling goalkeeper Vladan Kovačević into action after the break. Ryan Sessegnon's deflected strike was pushed past the post, before Farhaan Ali Wahid's curling effort from distance was gathered.

But Philippe Clement's team doubled their advantage just after the hour mark when a corner was headed back across goal and centre-back Harry Darling nodded in on the goal line.

Tom Cairney was given the chance to have a strike at goal when Emile Smith Rowe was upended just outside the penalty area, but the skipper's effort went just wide.

Fulham will now travel to Portugal for a training camp, where they will face Al-Ahli in their next pre-season test.
: Leno (Lecomte 46'), Tete (White 46'), Amissah (Andersen 46'), Bassey (Cuenca 46'), Nwoko (Araujo 25' (Sessegnon 46')), Reed (Cairney 46'), Lukić (Harris 46' (Dibley Dias 75')), King (Zepa 46'), Iwobi (Smith Rowe 46'), Kevin (Ali Wahid 46'), Muniz (Kusi-Asare 46')

Subs: Lecomte, Borto, Andersen, Cuenca, Sessegnon, Araujo, White, Smith Rowe, Dibley-Dias, Harris, Nwoko, Ali Wahid, Zepa, Kusi-Asare,

: Kovačević, Stacey (Gibbs 65'), McConville (Alves 65'), Córdoba (Darling 46'), Chrisene (Özcan 65'), McLean (Field 46'), Mattsson (Wight 65'), Jurásek (Forson 46'), Slimane (Maghoma 46'), Schwartau (Baumann 65'), Kvistgaarden (Jones 65')

Subs: Grimshaw, Gibbs, Alves, Darling, Özcan, Field, Wight, Forson, Maghoma, Baumann, Jones, Ansen, Medić, Glossop, Towler




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/july/25/fulham-0-2-norwich/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 0-2 Norwich: Alvaro Arbeloa beaten on debut in behind-closed-doors friendly
Ex-Real Madrid boss makes stuttering start to life in west London

Alvaro Arbeloa made a losing start to his Fulham career as his side were beaten 2-0 by Norwich in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Motspur Park.

The Spaniard was brought in to replace Marco Silva earlier this summer, with his only previous senior managerial experience coming in a tumultuous six-month spell at Real Madrid last season.

But he has faltered off the line with Fulham, tasting defeat in his first outing as Championship side Norwich visited south-west London and recorded their fifth victory of the summer.

Anis Ben Slimane was the Canaries' first goalscorer, slotting past Bernd Leno with just under 20 minutes played before centre-back Harry Darling nodded home from a corner in the second half.

Fulham enjoyed chances through Kevin and Tom Cairney, with Ryan Sessegnon and first-team debutant Farhaan Ali Wahid also forcing the Norwich keeper into saves, but ultimately the Cottagers were unable to find a way through the Canaries, who finished ninth in the Championship last season.

Arbeloa saw 22 players in action during the match, naming a unique squad in either half. He appears to have set his side up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a system he only used occasionally at Real Madrid, where he tended to prefer a 4-4-2 or 4-3-3.

Young talent Josh King was in from the off after spending time with England in the United States at their pre-World Cup camp in Florida. Also involved in the opening period were first-team regulars Kenny Tete, Calvin Bassey, Harrison Reed, Sasa Lukic, Alex Iwobi, and Kevin, who was booked before being withdrawn.

Running out in the second half were Emile Smith Rowe, Joachim Andersen, Tom Cairney and Jorge Cuenca. Highly rated youngster Macaulay Zepa featured for the first time since signing his first professional deal earlier this month, snubbing interest from Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest to remain in west London.

The 18-year-old striker Jonah Kusi-Asare also featured after his loan from Bayern Munich was turned permanent in June.

Saudi side Al Ahli are up next for Fulham, with that match set to take place during a warm-weather training camp in Portugal, before completing pre-season by hosting VfB Stuttgart at Craven Cottage.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-norwich-result-preseason-friendly-b1291311.html

[SimonDaviesEnjoyer]

It never ceases to amaze me how much rubbish is published by the press.