Thursday Fulham Stuff (19/07/18)...

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Fulham interested in defender Mbabu

Fulham are interested in signing former Newcastle right-back Kevin Mbabu from Swiss club Young Boys.

The 23-year-old joined Newcastle in 2013 and made just three league appearances for the Magpies before returning to his native Switzerland.

His performances have since attracted interest from a number of clubs and Fulham are ready to hand him the chance of a return to England.

The Whites have been looking for a right-back since losing Ryan Fredericks to West Ham.

They have made an approach for Mbabu but are yet to submit a formal bid.

Reports in the Swiss media suggest Basel are also interested in him.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/whites-keen-to-sign-former-newcastle-defender

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Fulham close in on £20m Aleksandar Mitrovic transfer


Top form: Mitrovic scored 12 goals in 20 games to help Fulham reach the Premier League ( Getty Images )

Fulham are closing in on a deal worth close to £20million for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Serbia striker is on a break after the World Cup and is set to seal a move from Newcastle United when he returns.

Turkish side Fenerbahce have been linked with a late bid to snatch Mitrovic from under the nose of Fulham, but Slavisa Jokanovic is confident he has landed the 23-year-old.

The signing of Mitrovic will take Fulham's spending summer to around £50m following the arrival of Jean-Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand from Nice in a combined £30m deal.

Mitrovic spent last season on loan at Fulham and played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League, scoring 12 goals in 20 games. He believes he played the best football of his career under Jokanovic and wants to return to Craven Cottage.

Newcastle have been holding out for an increase on the £13m they paid for Mitrovic in 2015 but Rafael Benitez is keen to offload him to raise funds for new signings.

Fulham, meanwhile, want to press ahead with contract talks with Jokanovic with the head coach now into the final year of his current deal.

The 49-year-old Serb guided Fulham to promotion last season and the Cottagers want to tie him down to a longer contract.

Jokanovic asked Fulham to match his ambition this summer and the signings of Seri and Mitrovic are a clear statement of their intent.


Mitrovic is on a break after his World Cup campaign with Serbia (REUTERS)

Seri was wanted by a host of clubs across Europe and Barcelona legend Xavi last year urged the Catalan club to sign him because he has "Barca DNA".

The 26-year-old midfielder signed a four-year contract at Fulham and has revealed why he moved to the west London club amid interest from clubs including Chelsea, Napoli and Borussia Dortmund.

Seri said: "When they respect me at my real value, I respect the club back. The club said, 'we want you, even though we know other clubs are after you, this is what we want to do with you and this is what we want you to bring to us'.

"This is why I chose this club. And they have a good playing philosophy. I am a player who loves playing with the ball, who loves the beautiful game and ball possession. So it is a club that suits me and I will do everything to repay the confidence the club has shown in me."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-close-in-on-20m-aleksandar-mitrovic-transfer-a3889906.html

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Fulham keen on Young Boys defender Kevin Mbabu, face competition from Basel

Fulham are keen on signing Young Boys defender Kevin Mbabu but face competition from Swiss side FC Basel, according to Sky sources.

Basel are understood to have had an offer of £7m rejected by their Swiss counterparts, who are believed to value Mbabu at £10m.

Fulham are yet to bid for the 23-year-old, who joined Young Boys from Newcastle United - initially on loan - two years ago.

Mbabu helped Young Boys to their first Swiss Super League title in 32 years last season.

They finished 15 points ahead of Basel, who failed to win the division for the first time in nine years.

Mbabu, who is primarily a right-back, could replace Ryan Fredericks, who left Fulham to join West Ham after his contract at Craven Cottage expired this summer.



http://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/11440402/fulham-keen-on-young-boys-defender-kevin-mbabu-face-competition-from-basel

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Mitrovic set to sign for Fulham
by Dan on July 18, 2018

Aleksandar Mitrovic will complete his protracted transfer to Fulham after Newcastle United when he returns from a family holiday, according to the Evening Standard.

Fulham made Mitrovic their top summer target after his outstanding performances on loan at Craven Cottage last season, where he scored twelve goals in 20 appearances as the Whites won promotion back to the Premier League via the Championship play-offs. The Serbian striker was declared surplus to requirements by Rafa Benitez, but Newcastle chairman Mike Ashley has been holding out for around £20m before sanctioning his departure from St. James' Park.

Reports in recent days had suggested that both Fenerbache and Real Betis were interested in hijacking Fulham's proposed deal for Mitrovic, but the London newspaper claims that the 23 year-old forward has made his preference clear. Mitrovic, who scored once for Serbia at this summer's World Cup, believes he played the best football of his career at Fulham and his closeness to his compatriot Slavisa Jokanovic has played a big part in his decision to make his move to London permanent.

The Standard also suggests that Fulham are close to agreeing a contract extension with Jokanovic ahead of their return to the top flight. Jokanovic had demanded that the Whites match his ambitions in the summer transfer window and with the recruitment of Ivorian international Jean-Michael Seri, who had been coveted by a number of leading English and European sides, vice chairman Tony Khan has lived up to those expectations. The club are hopeful that Jokanovic will put pen to paper on a long-term deal in the coming days.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/mitrovic-set-to-sign-for-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham keen on Mbabu
by Dan on July 18, 2018

Fulham have approached Swiss club Young Boys about a potential move for their full-back Kevin Mbabu, according to various reports this morning.

The Whites are eager to strengthen their squad in that position after the summer departure of last season's first choice Ryan Fredericks to West Ham. Slavisa Jokanovic currently only has Cyrus Christie, signed from Middlesbrough last January, and youth-team graduates Marlon Fossey and Steven Sessegnon to choose from and Fulham's recruitment team have been scouring Europe for potential signings.

Mbabu is understood to be open to a return to England, after enduring a frustration spell with Newcastle United. The former Swiss youth international made just three league appearances during his three years on Tyneside and was a regular starter for Young Boys in the Swiss Super League last season. He helped Young Boys win their first domestic title in 32 years and was named in the Swiss provisional squad for the World Cup this summer, narrowly missing out on the trip to Russia.

This morning's report claim that Fulham have made an initial enquiry as to Mbabu's availability and are expected to follow up with a formal bid shortly. The 23 year-old has two years to run on his current Young Boys contract – so the Whites will need to come up with an attractive offer if they are intent on pursuing their interest. The Swiss side have reportedly slapped a £10m price tag on Mbabu, with Basel also eager to sign the attacking right-back.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-keen-on-mbabu/

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Ben Davis has no intention to fulfil NS duties; actions meant to further his professional career: MINDEF


Singaporean footballer Ben Davis. (File photo: TODAY/Nuria Ling)

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) revealed on Wednesday (Jul 18) that Harvey Davis, the father of Fulham footballer Benjamin Davis, "would not commit to a date" on when his son intended to return and serve his national service (NS) during the deferment application process.

In a reply to media queries, MINDEF added that Benjamin went on to sign the contract despite the rejection for deferment and noted that the senior Davis has publicly stated that he would encourage his son to renounce his citizenship in order to pursue his career.

"(Benjamin's) actions are meant to further his own professional career, not national interest. As his father openly admitted, he is looking out for his son's future, not Singapore's," said MINDEF.

"They have no intention of returning to fulfill their son's NS duties, especially if (Benjamin) is given a full professional contract after two years of his senior contract.

"To allow deferment for this type of appeal, would severely undermine the ethos and sacrifice of Singaporeans who have all put aside their personal interests to complete their NS duties."

MINDEF said that while Benjamin's achievement in securing a senior contract with the Premier League club was recognised, other talented sportsmen including footballers "completed their NS dutifully first" before pursuing their professional careers.

It said that there are schemes in place during full-time NS to enable sportsmen to continue training and improve their skills.

"We also provide additional training opportunities in the lead-up to major games such as the Southeast Asian and Olympic Games where our sportsmen represent Singapore and do us proud," MINDEF added.

The revelation from MINDEF comes a day after the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) said it "strongly supported" Benjamin's deferment request, saying that it believes the 17-year-old's case merits serious consideration.

FAS had said that "it believes that a balance can be struck between player development and national service obligations in this unique case".

"We also believe that any deferment cannot be open-ended, and that any deferment has to be matched with an assurance to see through Benjamin's national service obligations and a commitment to use this opportunity to enhance the development of national football," it added.

The ministry had also sent a note to NS commanders on Tuesday, explaining its decision to reject Davis' request.

The note, which was seen by Channel NewsAsia, said Davis signing of a contract with Fulham is a "personal pursuit" which is "no different from the personal pursuits by other pre-enlistees like university studies or working in other professional fields."

On Monday, Fulham told Channel NewsAsia that it would "not be making any official comment on this subject".



Read more at https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/ben-davis-has-no-intention-to-fulfil-ns-duties-mindef-10541112

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Wolves, Cardiff & Fulham: How will the Premier League new boys get on?
Neither side are in uncharted territory having all dined at the top table before but what will the 2018/19 season bring for them?

After impressive campaigns last season in differing circumstances, Wolves, Cardiff and Fulham will enter the top flight hoping their stay will last much longer than in times gone by. No strangers to the Premier League, all three teams have all been here before.

The 2017/18 EFL Championship season's die had been cast long before the end of the campaign with Wolves and Cardiff having a seemingly impenetrable hold on the division's top two automatic promotion spots, and Fulham emerging as the 'best of the rest' before the conclusion in May.

As these three sides know all too well, though, the Premier League is a different animal, a challenge like no other – how will they get on...?

Last season delight
Wolves' dominance of the league will cause concern to some sides that languished in the bottom half of the top flight last time out as Molineux prepares to host the biggest teams in the land once again. Over the last ten seasons, only Newcastle United and Leicester City had bettered Wolves' points return in the Championship as Nuno Espirito Santo's men put 82 league goals past their opponents.

A high-profile international takeover in July 2016 put the wheels in motion at the West Midlands club before an internal re-jig at Fosun International saw Jeff Shi become the club's chairman. Wolves saw an influx of talent arrive from the continent at the end of last summer in an investment risk that appears to have paid off.

Over in Wales, Cardiff City flew out of the traps and their ability to hold their position in the top two was almost as impressive as Wolves' showing. Few predicted their ability to hang on after their impressive start, wondering when, not if, their bubble would burst.

The Bluebirds, though, were often criticised for their style of play. Manager Neil Warnock has a reputation for a certain brand of football and it's a tactic that has paid off for him frequently in the second tier. Warnock will have another attempt to get to grips with the Premier League in a season that survival will surely take top priority.

For Fulham, the success of going up via the playoffs assuaged the agonising pain of falling just short the season before. In standard fashion, the West London side started slowly but made their charge up the table much earlier than the season before, allowing them to cement their place in the top six with plenty of time to spare.

Slavisa Jokanovic has earned many a plaudit during his time in the Championship. His introduction played a big part in turning Fulham's fortunes around; the club flirting with the second tier trapdoor before his arrival. In only two full seasons at the helm, Jokanovic has allowed Fulham to fulfil their potential.

A perfect summer?
Much of Wolves' success in the Championship last time out was down to the instant impact of loan signings from across the continent.

Diogo Jota, Leo Bonatini and Willy Boly are just a few of the names that came with the gate at Molineux in the summer of 2017 as well as Portuguese duo Ruben Neves and Helder Costa (in January 2017) who arrived from FC Porto and SL Benfica, respectively.

The Wolves board have pleased fans so far this summer by signing the impactful loanees up to permanent deals. Jota, Bonatini and Boly all put pen to paper on longer-term deals with the club also gaining the services of experienced goalkeeper, Rui Patricio. 

Cardiff City's summer window has been less notable, although not entirely uneventful. All of their recent signings have come from second-tier clubs with whom Cardiff shared a division last season.

Queens Park Rangers goalkeeper Alex Smithies secured a four-year deal with the club, while Preston North End left-back Greg Cunningham signed up for three years. Cardiff also persuaded Norwich City to part ways with winger Josh Murphy and goal machine Bobby Reid made the switch to the Welsh side from Bristol City.

Fulham's boardroom has been slightly quieter. The Cottagers have made only two signings so far this window with Jokanovic confident that it is only the defensive side of his team which needs strengthening most.

Ligue 1 side OGC Nice have been the go-to so far with both acquisitions coming from the French side. Holding midfielder Jean Michael Seri followed centre-back Maxime Le Marchand across the channel: the pair costing the club an estimated £30 million.

Wolves have been the busier of the three sides but, with plenty of time still left until the window closes, there may be more incomings on the horizon.

Who stands the best chance?

Wolves – Predicted finish: 10th
With the financial gulf between the Premier League and the Championship, the common aim for most sides promoted is to survive their first season back in the big time, then build from there. For Wolves, though, their sights may be set on a much higher finish.

In didn't take long to notice the level of quality that Wolves brought in in the summer of 2017. The likes of Jota, Bonatini and Neves all appeared to be head and shoulders above the level of the division in a matter of weeks, and their talent told.

Securing these players to a longer-term Wolves future was an obvious choice for the board. With the signing of experienced goalkeeper Patricio and the loan of SL Benfica forward Raul Jimenez, there is a strong feeling of balance across the squad.

Another dip into the market wouldn't come as a surprise although this current Wolves side will be a threat to teams in the lower reaches of the league – a top-half finish is a distinct possibility.

Cardiff – Predicted finish: 20th
Newly promoted sides are always a strong contender for an instant relegation back to the Championship, and Cardiff City won't be an exception to the rule.

The Bluebirds might liken their position to Huddersfield Town last season. The Terriers were odds-on favourites to go straight back down, though their performances merited another year in the top flight.

Cardiff will take inspiration from Huddersfield's odds-defying season, and will hope that they too can prove everyone wrong.

The most concerning aspect of the summer for Cardiff fans may well be the club's transfer dealings. To survive in the Premier League, proven quality needs to be added. A team full of Championship level players cannot compete in the top division nor can a direct, long ball style of football without the right squad.

Cardiff may well have made some astute signings, though. Josh Murphy is a talent and deserves a chance to prove himself, as does Bobby Reid. But will the pair – like countless others before them – find the jump from Championship to Premier League too hot to handle?

Fulham – Predicted finish: 15th
The Cottagers are returning to the Premier League for the first time since the 2013/14 season and the sense of optimism and belief that the club are where they belong is high. After falling just short in the 2016/17 campaign, Fulham's promotion, on the evidence of the performances, desire and intent of the last two seasons was deserved.

Their style of play in the Championship was attractive; fluid, interchanging attacking play. The conundrum for newly promoted sides that may feel out of their depth, though, is to stick to their proven style and tackle opponents head on at higher risk or change to a more defensive style and try to take points when they can.

Teams that try to migrate their Championship style of play into the Premier League have often fallen short in a war of attacking attrition and Fulham may not have the firepower to continue to play in that way in the Premier League.

More activity in the window may be required though their two signings are astute. Jean Michael Seri and Maxime La Marchand will bolster a defensive line that will experience much tougher challenges in the months ahead.

The emergence of Ryan Sessegnon is a spectacle the whole league can't wait to see, as is the talent of Tom Cairney and Floyd Ayite. Fulham, though, need a proven left back to complete their defensive ranks.

If the Cottagers can bring one or two more signings over the line, then they may just about have enough quality in their ranks to stabilise and build for seasons to come. 



https://realsport101.com/news/sports/football/wolves-cardiff-fulham-how-will-the-premier-league-new-boys-get-on/

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Besiktas reject Fulham transfer bid for Spanish star and hold out for increased offer

Fulham have suffered a major set back in the race to sign Besiktas star goalkeeper Fabri.

The London based club are on the lookout for a new goalkeeper after selling David Button to Brighton and Hove Albion last week.

Fulham were subsequently linked with a move for the Spanish goalkeeper Fabri.

However, a source close to Besiktas has revealed to Turkish-Football.com that Besiktas have rejected an increased £5 million offer from Fulham for Fabri.

The Black Eagles are holding out for a bid in the region of £7.5 million for their star asset. Per the source, while Besiktas would like to keep Fabri, they do not want to risk losing the 30-year-old for free next summer.

Fabri joined Besiktas from Deportivo La Coruna on a free transfer back in 2016. The former Real Betis star made a total of 43 appearances for Besiktas last season.

Fulham take on Crystal Palace in their first game of the 2018/19 Premier League season.



https://turkish-football.com/euro-giants-reject-fulham-transfer-bid-for-spanish-star-and-hold-out-for-increased-offer/

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The moment Cairney will feel like a Premier League player and the club he can't wait to face

Fulham's captain has spent a lot of time watching his play-off goal this summer

Tom Cairney has relived his goal that took Fulham into the Premier League all summer but he's ready to move onto bigger and better things as the season begins.

The Whites captain has been linked to a top tier move frequently over the last 12 months but committed to the Cottagers with a new contract and his wait for the Premier League is over.

The Cottagers beat Aston Villa 1-0 in the play-off final to win promotion and Cairney hasn't been able to avoid his final moments as a Championship star.

The former Blackburn midfielder said: "I've had a while to watch it now [the goal against Aston Villa], countless times from all different angles because Wembley is pretty special and there's loads of cameras. I get tweeted about it nearly every day.

"Obviously it was a special moment and I wish I could relive that day a few times but we're onto bigger things this season as a reward for the work we did last season."


Tom Cairney celebrates his goal

That reward includes facing the Premier League's best - something the 27-year-old is equally looking forward to and aware of the difficulty such matches bring.

However, it was business of usual at Motspur Park, ahead of the club's trip to France and Cairney believes one moment will help the thought of top flight football become real.

He said: "It's amazing, I don't think it's really sunk in yet, but I think it will when we get he Premier League badges on the shirts and step out for the first time but it just feels like a normal pre-season at the minute.

"Obviously, what we did last season was incredible but it's going to be tough and it's what the team deserves.

"We've not really done everything different. We've had a couple of slow starts but you can't afford to do that in the Premier League as you can fall behind quite quickly.

"I think in the first few games, Manchester City away after the international break. I think that's the one everyone is looking at really, it could be a difficult afternoon but it's what you enjoy, you want to test yourself against the best and we'll see how it goes."



https://www.football.london/fulham-fc/tom-cairney-fulham-manchester-city-14910367

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Newcastle must hijack Fulham pursuit of Mbabu



OPINION

Newcastle United must hijack Premier League rivals Fulham's reported pursuit of Young Boys defender Kevin Mbabu.

The Cottagers are thought to be chasing the 23-year-old right back's services, as reported by Sky Sports, as they're looking for a replacement for Ryan Fredericks who departed to join West Ham this summer.

According to the broadcaster's report Fulham are yet to make an official offer for Mbabu who is valued as being worth £10million and this should give Rafa Benitez's side have enough time to find the funds to put an offer together to bring the defender to St James Park instead.
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Mbabu would be a familiar face to Magpies supporters as he previously played for the club and only left last summer.

The speedy 23-year-old managed to make only three appearances for the senior side during his time at St James Park with him suffering some misfortune with injuries while at the club that severely damaged his chance of succeeding.

However Magpies fans will fondly remember his performance against Chelsea where he ended up keeping Eden Hazard in his back pocket for the whole game.

Despite it only being a year since Mbabu departed he has transformed his career and has excelled while at Young Boys.

The 23-year-old featured 44 times for the Swiss side across all competitions last season and played a crucial part in his side ending up as league champions.

After regularly featuring for a side Mbabu has clearly put his past injury problems behind him and is looking better than ever.

The speed demon is now able to use his blistering pace to great effect and is destined to improve further due to still only being 23-years-old.

As Benitez has made it a priority to sign a new right-back this summer, as reported by the Chronicle, the club must look to welcome back Mbabu as he is the perfect option to sign.

This all means that the Magpies should hijack Fulham's pursuit of their former player this summer as the speed demon is now ready to flourish at St James Park.



https://nothingbutnewcastle.com/2018/07/blogs/newcastle-must-hijack-fulham-pursuit-of-mbabu/

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Fulham to offer £8m for Targett
by Dan on July 18, 2018

Fulham are set to offer £8m for the Southampton full back Matt Targett, according to a Daily Mirror report this afternoon.

The Whites haven't given up hope of being reunited with the former England under-21 international who spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage, despite having a bid for the left back rejected last month. Targett was reportedly angry at not being able to discuss a permanent return to London and is unwilling to sit on the Southampton bench behind first choice Ryan Bertrand at St. Mary's this season.

Slavisa Jokanovic has made the recruitment of a left back a major target during the summer as he wants to be able to play talented teenager Ryan Sessegnon on the left wing when Fulham return to the Premier League next month. Fulham have failed in a bid to land Werder Bremen's Swedish international Ludgwig Augustinsson, who they scouted during the recent World Cup in Russia, and are now reviving their long-running pursuit of a permanent deal for Targett.

The attack-minded full back, who struck up a great understanding with Sessegnon down the left flank during his successful loan spell last term, made 21 appearances for Fulham as Jokanovic's side won promotion via the Championship play-offs. Eastleigh-born Targett, who came through the ranks at Southampton, has made 42 first-team appearances for the Saints but enjoyed his taste of regular first-team football and now has ambitions to prove himself worth a starting place at Premier League level.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-to-offer-8m-for-targett/

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Football legend Gary Neville blasted 'ridiculous' plans to sell Wembley stadium to fund grassroots football

The ex-Manchester United star hit out at moves to flog the national stadium, which is the target of a bid by Fulham owner Shahid Khan

Football legend Gary Neville blasted "ridiculous" plans to sell Wembley to fund grassroots football.

The ex-Manchester United star hit out at moves to flog the national stadium, which is the target of a bid by Fulham owner Shahid Khan.

Pointing to the huge money swirling round the sport, Neville said the estimated £600million price tag was "a pittance in the game of football".

Sport chiefs claim the cash is needed to boost the standard of community pitches.

Giving evidence to MPs, he believed the money for the grassroots game should come from elsewhere in English football.

"The FA feels to fund the grassroots programme they have to sell a national asset - it's quite simply ridiculous," he told the Commons Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Committee, which is investigating the proposed sale.

Branding it a "short-term plan we'll regret forever", he added: "I despair at the thought that the FA board and executive management are having to sit there, to scramble to raise this money to fund the grassroots programme."

He suggested giving community teams a bigger slice of clubs' TV jackpot or hammering agents with 25% levies on their whopping fees as ways of generating the extra funds.

"Don't sell Wembley - whatever you do, don't sell Wembley," he insisted.

"The Government has to intervene in football to ensure the revenues that are created within the game are not only used to support the Premier League and elite football, but that grassroots football accessibility for fans are protected more."

Neville also criticised decades of selling football pitches for jeopardising the grassroots game.

"The biggest problem for grassroots football is government selling off playing fields and school playing fields over the last 20, 30 years," he said.

"This idea that pitches are unplayable - they were always unplayable, they were always muddy.

"I remember playing in mud baths all the way through the winter."

Critics fear selling Wembley could see some showpiece matches and England internationals played elsewhere - or the FA having to fork out sky-high rents to use the ground.

But any attempt to change the stadium's name was likely to flop, he warned.

Neville said: "You don't change the name, trust me - that's the star here.

"Wembley is a special ground all around the world - no-one's changing that name."

Katrina Law, of the Football Supporters' Federation, said: "There is certainly a significant body of the fan community who do have an emotional investment in Wembley Stadium.

"Fans have bought into the whole 'home of football' rhetoric."

She feared football could "play second fiddle" to American football at the ground if the sale goes ahead.

But she told MPs the potential deal offered a "transformational amount of money" for the grassroots game.

Meanwhile, Neville demanded an equal number of British players and foreign stars in league teams in a bid to produce more homegrown talent.

Current figures suggest just 30% of Premiership players are from the UK.

"My view is almost like a 50:50 model - so 50% of your team should be British and 50% should be the best international players," he told MPs.

"It can only happen through quotas."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/politics/football-legend-gary-neville-blasted-12942999

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Dream Fulham line-up for 2018-19 season, including this new signing and a potential coup

Dream Fulham XI including Malcom and new signings Seri and Le Marchand

Fulham have done great business thus far in the transfer window. They signed Jean Michael Seri and Maxime Le Marchand, and are now in line to challenge Inter Milan to sign Bordeaux forward Malcom.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic has done a terrific job by leading the club to a Premier League promotion. It has certainly helped them recruit better players this summer, which should help them perform well in their first English top-flight season in four years. Adding Malcom to the mix will be a game-changer, as the Brazilian possesses the required attributes to become a superstar.

Here's the expected lineup if the Cottagers do get their targets in time.
Dream Fulham XI
Manager  – Slavisa Jokanovic
Formation – 4-3-3

Marcus Bettinelli (GK)

The Englishman was the first-choice keeper last season and is expected to continue between the sticks this time around as well.

Cyrus Christie (RB)

Christie is an automatic choice at right-back since the departure of Ryan Fredericks to West Ham United.

Tim Ream (CB)

The experienced defender signed a new two-year deal with the club to further cement his spot as the first-choice centre-back.

Marcelo Djalo (CB)

The Real Madrid man is expected to partner Ream in the lineup and act as a commanding presence in both boxes.

Ryan Sessegnon (LB)

One of the best left-backs in the division, Sessegnon is expected to stay at Craven Cottage and keep his place on the left side of the defence.

Tom Cairney (CM)

The captain was an influential part in securing promotion for the Cottagers. He is expected to continue doing good things for the team from the central midfield position.

Stefan Johansen (CM)

Johansen performed well for the Cottagers, scoring 8 goals and supplying 9 assists in 48 appearances from midfield last season. He is expected to partner Cairney in central midfield.

Jean Michael Seri (CM)

The new game-changing signing will add some much-needed creativity and tenacity to the midfield. The Ivorian will propel the team to perform at a higher level next season.

Malcom (RW)

If snapped up, the Brazilian has the propensity to be a breakout star for the Cottagers and set the Premier League stage alight.

Rui Fonte (ST)

Fonte must continue his good pre-season form and lead the line. The Portuguese played second fiddle to Newcastle loanee Aleksandar Mitrovic last season.

Neeskens Kabano (LW)

The 26-year-old Congo forward must cement his place in the starting line-up, which was taken away by Liverpool loanee Sheyi Ojo.




http://www.mediareferee.com/2018/07/18/dream-fulham-line-up-for-2018-19-season-including-this-new-signing-and-a-potential-coup/

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Result: Fulham well beaten by Fenerbahce

Fenerbahce have recorded a routine 3-0 victory over a young Fulham side in their pre-season friendly at the Stade Joseph-Moynat in France.

After an uneventful first quarter, Aatif Chahechouhe almost opened the scoring for the Turkish side but his shot towards the far corner narrowly went wide of the post.

However, it did not take much longer for Fenerbahce to take the lead, as Mauricio Isla crossed for Giuliano who was able to convert from close range.

Before half time, Fenerbahce doubled their advantage through Hasan Ali Kaldirim, who got down the left flank before drilling a shot past Marek Rodak.

Soon after the break, Alper Potuk threatened to add a third for Fenerbahce but despite having being played through on goal, Rodak remained big to deny the midfielder.

Fulham hit back through Matt O'Riley, who brought a comfortable save out of Carlos Kameni, while substitute Ryan Sessegnon saw a shot blocked soon after being introduced as a substitute.

However, Fenerbahce went further with 15 minutes remaining as Ozan Tufan's cross from an acute angle deceived everyone and found the back of the net.

FENERBAHCE: Demirel, Chahechouhe, Elmas, Giuliano, Isla, Kaldirim, Neustadter, Potuk, Skrtel, Souza, Topal

FULHAM: Rodak, Fossey, Djalo, Jenz, S.Sessegnon, Cisse, O'Riley, de la Torre, Kebano, Kait, Thorsteinsson



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/result/result-fulham-well-beaten-by-fenerbahce_330922.html

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Tom Cairney impressed by Fulham signing Jean Michael Seri

Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney has acknowledged that he expects Jean Michael Seri to become a key player for the club.

Earlier this month, Fulham completed the surprise signing of the Nice midfielder, with reports claiming that a number of top European clubs had been edged out.

Seri has already started training with the newly-promoted Premier League club, and Cairney suggests that the addition could be the difference between staying up and relegation.

The 27-year-old is quoted by football.london as saying: "Yeah outstanding, very exciting, even in a couple of days training you can see what he brings to the table.

"He's full of energy and he can play, he can win the ball back. I think he's all action and exactly what we need in the Premier League."

Fulham begin the new campaign with a home fixture against Crystal Palace.



https://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/fulham/news/cairney-impressed-by-fulham-signing-seri_330924.html

[WhiteJC]

Youthful Fulham well beaten by Fenerbahce
by Dan on July 18, 2018

A youthful Fulham side were well beaten by Fenerbahce as the Whites' pre-season tour of France got off to a poor start this afternoon.

Slavisa Jokanovic selected a young side full of talent from the club's much-vaunted academy as the Whites' first-teamers continued to work on their fitness ahead of the big kick off next month. Marek Rodak was handed another start in goal, with Marlon Fossey and Steven Sessegnon operating at full back, whilst Ibrahima Cisse – who was on the periphery of the senior squad last term – provided the experience alongside talented teenager Matt O'Riley and American international Luca de la Torre in central midfield. Estonian international Mattias Kait was used as a false nine for the second game in succession, with Congolese winger Neeskens Kebano skippering an inexperienced eleven.

The young Fulham side were in the game for the first half an hour, making a promising start when Cisse, Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson and Kait combined impressively but Kebano was shut down by a number of Fenerbache defenders as soon as he looked to pull the trigger. Steven Sessegnon then showed attacking prowess reminiscent of his twin brother darting in between a host of would-be tacklers and firing in a dangerous shot that was deflected wide. Fenerbahce began to get into the game after a quarter of an hour with Brazilian attacking midfielder Giuliano shooting wide from an acute angle and Aatif Chahechouhe placing a shot agonisingly wide of the far post.

The warning sides were there for Fulham and it was no surprise when their Turkish opponents took the lead on 28 minutes. Former QPR full-back Mauricio Isla got forward down the right wing and rifled over a low cross that a predatory Giuliano guided past a helpless Rodak and into the net. Fulham spurned a couple of good chances to find an equaliser with Kebano slamming a free-kick into the wall and de la Torre using a hand to control the ball in a promising position, but Jokanovic's charges went 2-0 just before the break.

A spell of patient possession culminated with left-back Hasan Ali surging into the box before keeping his composure impressively to fire an unstoppable effort past Rodak low into the net. The Turkish side were technically impressive and proved clinical in the Fulham box, offering a tough lesson to some of the Whites' youngsters on the harsh realities of senior football.

Rodak, so impressive on loan at Rotherham last season, produced an excellent save to prevent Fenerbahce from adding a third seven minutes after the restart. A through ball sent winger Alper Potak in on goal, but Fulham's Slovakian goalkeeper did very well to stand up for as long as possible and pull of a fine reaction stop. The Whites nearly found a way back in the contest through O'Riley, comfortably their most impressive performer, but his low 20-yarder was easily fielded by Carlos Kameni in the Fenerbache goal.

Jokanovic rung the changes after 65 minutes introducing Marcus Bettinelli, Cyrus Christie, Denis Odoi, Tom Cairney, Aboubakar Kamara and Ryan Sessegnon amongst others. Sessegnon had a good opportunity with his very first touch after de la Torre committed several defenders during a purposeful run, but the recently-introduced winger saw his shot blocked by the Fenerbahce defence. Bettinelli's first taste of pre-season action soured when he let a cross from Ozan Tufan drift over him and into the net for Fener's third goal.

Fulham dominated possession for much of the second period but struggled to create many clear-cut chances. Christie got to the byline with timing running out but neither Rui Fonte or Tyrese Francois were able to convert the Irish international's wicked cross and, in the final action of the game, Sessegnon was flagged offside as he looked destined to turn home Kamara's speculative strike for a consolation goal. Jokanovic will hope his side improve ahead of Saturday's game against Lyon at the Stade Pierre Rajon.

FENERBACHE (4-1-2-3): Volkan (Kameni 45); Isla (Ozbayrakli 45), Hasan Ali (Köybasi 45) , Skrtel, Neustadter; Mehmet Topuz (Tufan 65); Elif Elmas, Josef; Alper, Aatif (Alici 65), Giuliano. Subs (not used): Mert Zeybk, Kose, Ozer, Ucan, Samed Karakoc, Kadioglu, Kot.

BOOKED: Hasan Ali, Aatif.

GOALS: Giuliano (28), Hasan Ali (42), Tufan (75).

FULHAM (4-3-3): Rodak (Bettinelli 65); Fossey, S. Sessegnon (Christie 65), Djalo (Odoi 65), Jenz (Le Marchand 76); Cisse (Cairney 65), O'Riley (Francois 76), de la Torre (Johansen 76); Kebano (Kamara 65), Thorsteinsson (Sessegnon 65), Kait (Fonte 65).

BOOKED: Christie.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/youthful-fulham-well-beaten-by-fenerbahce/

[WhiteJC]

 

Player Zone: £25m Seri signing proves Fulham are ready to play with the big boys

Fulham sent a slight tremor around the footballing world last week when they announced the signing of Ivory Coast international Jean Michael Seri for £25m ahead of their return to the Premier League.

The highly-rated midfielder was heavily linked with both Arsenal and Chelsea this summer and, according to Sky Sports, Barcelona only pulled out of a £36.8m deal at the final moment during last year's summer window.

The 26-year-old arrives from Ligue 1 side Nice, where he has spent the past three seasons. It was in 2016/17 where he really came to the attention of Europe's elite though as the diminutive midfielder provided nine assists and secured a spot in the Ligue 1 team of the season, with his side finishing third in the table.



Seri is a central-midfielder who excels at finding a pass, whether that be long range or in and around the penalty area.

With Kevin McDonald holding, Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic may deploy both Seri and club captain Tom Cairney as creative midfielders in an attempt to keep hold of possession next season.

Seri is also a full Ivory Coast international with 18 caps to his name, having made his debut for The Elephants in 2015.

Last season Nice laboured to an eighth place finish in the League, but 5ft 6in Seri still impressed. He managed to provide five assists as well as playing 2.1 key passes per game on average, which would suggest strikers Mickael Le Bihan and the ever controversial Mario Balotelli were off target more often than not.

Seri was dispossessed less than once a game on average last season and with a 90.4% average pass completion rate, it's clear Fulham have signed a player who regards possession as nine tenths of the law.

Further to the Ivorian's impressive stats though, beating some of Europe's top clubs to his signature will also open the doors at Craven Cottage to a world of players who may not have considered the West London club before.

A newly promoted club breaking their transfer budget is a sign of intent and Seri now represents the ambitions of Fulham to remain in the Premier League beyond the coming season.

Seri's Nice team-mate Maxime Le Marchand also joined the Cottagers in the same deal as Seri. The 28-year-old cost just £3.6m and will provide cover for both the centre-back and left-back roles vacated by Tomas Kalas and Matt Targett, who have both rejoined their parent clubs.

The next big name to be linked with Fulham though has been Bordeaux star Malcom. The Sun recently reported that Fulham were set to battle it out with Inter Milan and Tottenham to sign the 21-year-old Brazilian who is rated at £40.5m by Transfermarkt.



Seeing Seri sign for Fulham will no doubt have an effect on Malcom's decision and could sway the young winger in favour of the new Premier League side, where he is guaranteed game time and can test himself in the world's most watched domestic league.



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league/fulham/player-zone-25m-seri-signing-proves-fulham-are-ready-to-play-with-the-big-boys

[WhiteJC]

Fulham table offer for Wilmar Barrios
by Dan on July 18, 2018

According to reports from Argentina, Fulham have tabled an offer for Boca Juniors defensive mdifielder Wilmar Barrios that would meet the Colombian's release clause.

Earlier this week, there were widespread reports that a proposed to Europe had been shelved until the new year. Several English clubs including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton had been heavily linked with a move for the commanding 24 year-old midfielder, whose strong performances for Colombia during the World Cup had increased interest in his services. Barrios had reportedly agreed to remain with Boca until the end of their Copa Libertadores campaign but Fulham's willingness to pay the £16m that would release the player from his current contract would signify a new development.

Reports in south American claim that Boca are attempting to negotiate a new contract with representatives of Barrios to prevent him moving, although the player himself has made it known he would be interested in a move to the Premier League. The same reports suggest that Fulham's rumoured interest in the Manchester City youngster Oleksandar Zinchenko represents a back-up option if Barrios, a powerful deep-lying midfielder, decides to rebuff their overtures and remain with Boca.

Barrios, who spent three years with Colombian outfit Deportes Tolima helping them win the Colombian Cup in 2014, has made 46 appearances for Boca in two years in Argentina. He was a key part of the Boca side that won the Argentinian Premier Division in 2016/2017 and his composed midfield play has gradually gained more international recognition. He was part of the Colombian squad at the 2016 Olympics and has now won thirteen senior caps for his country, culminating in a series of excellent displays during the World Cup in Russia – where Colombia were eliminated by England in the second round after a penalty shoot-out.

Fulham's interest in Barrios is another indication that they are pursuing high-level targets as part of their summer recruitment. The newly-promoted side already pulled off a real coup with the signing of Nice midfielder Jean-Michael Seri last week, although their move for Barrios is almost certain to spark concerted interest from across Europe. The Whites are short of options at the base of their midfield, with Scottish international Kevin McDonald – thought to be in talks over a new contract at Fulham – yet to feature during pre-season.



http://hammyend.com/index.php/2018/07/fulham-table-offer-for-wilmar-barrios/

[WhiteJC]

 
Besiktas look set to accept €6m from Fulham for Fabri, Sambade key in transfer

A Spor report Besiktas look set to accept a €6m offer from Fulham for their goalkeeper Fabri.

According to A Spor, Fulham goalkeeper coach Jose Sambade is the reason why Fabri is going to sign for Fulham, and the deal now looks close.

Last week we covered claims from the Turkey media that Fulham had made an initial bid of €3.5m for Fabri which was instantly rejected by Besiktas as they initially valued him at €8m.

It's was also claimed the Premier League side came in with a second offer of €4.5m and A Spor now reports Besiktas are set to accept a €6m offer from Fulham after the English side agreed to pay that.

A Spor say Besiktas will now begin their search for a replacement for Fabri, and the Spaniard is now likely to be playing at Craven Cottage next season.

Fabri has been the first choice goalkeeper for Besiktas during the last two seasons after joining the Turkish club from Deportivo La Coruna on a free transfer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/besiktas-look-set-accept-e6m-fulham-fabri-sambade-key-deal/

[WhiteJC]

 
Wolves beating Fulham to sign this £16m prodigy could be the deal of the summer

Why Wolves over Fulham would be the ideal destination for Oleksandr Zinchenko

According to reports, newly-promoted Premier League duo Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham are interested in signing Manchester City starlet Oleksandr Zinchenko.

Although Zinchenko has jetted off with Manchester City for their US tour, he is still expected to leave the club this summer. City have reportedly accepted a bid of £16million from Wolves for the 21-year-old, while Fulham are keen to hijack the deal and sign the player.

Zinchenko, 21, made his breakthrough at City last term, playing 14 games, mainly as a makeshift left-back, and had hoped to build on from a promising start. However, with City completing the record £60million signing Riyad Mahrez, Pep Guardiola is reportedly ready to let the midfielder leave Etihad.

Given that the 21-year-old's opportunities in his favoured attacking midfield role look almost impossible to come by, Guardiola used the player at left wing-back role and surprisingly, Zinchenko shined. He thrived in the left wing-back position, making the area his own when the likes of Benjamin Mendy and Fabian Delph were injured. However, with Mendy and Delph fit and set to return to the team in a few weeks' time, Zinchenko's chances of playing regular football next season will come at a premium.

Hence, Zinchenko must leave the Premier League champions and join a club where he can play regularly and unlock his potential. Wolves can certainly provide him with the platform to showcase his talent and if Nuno Espirito Santo succeeds in signing Zinchenko this summer, it would arguably be a fantastic statement of intent ahead of the new season. The Ukrainian started only six games under Guardiola last season and showed glimpses of real quality of what he could achieve if given a significant amount of opportunities.

Zinchenko is one of the most sought-after young talents across Europe and while he is a central midfielder by trade, the 21-year-old can also play on either flank, in a No.10 role, or as a wing-back. Due to his versatility, the 21-year-old would be such a valuable player for the Molineux-based club.

The opportunity to play week in, week out will only improve Zinchenko's already undeniable talent. Under the watchful eyes of Santo, the Ukrainian would thrive and form a lethal midfield combo with the excellent Ruben Neves. If needed, Santo can also use the 21-year-old at the left wing-back position in his preferred 3-4-3 system.

Hence, the West Midlands outfit must go all guns blazing to sign Zinchenko and City must not hesitate to offload him this summer.



https://soccersouls.com/2018/07/19/wolves-beating-fulham-to-sign-this-16m-prodigy-could-be-the-deal-of-the-summer/