Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 03/07/19...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham keen on Leeds defender

Relegated Fulham could try and pinch Pontus Jansson from Championship rivals Leeds United, with Matt Law of the Daily Telegraph, confirming the Cottagers interest via his official Twitter account.

Sweden international Jansson joined the Whites back in 2016, and his three-year stay at the club could be in doubt, if Fulham's interest is genuine.

The 28 year-old scored three goals in 39 Championship appearances as Leeds missed out on promotion to the top tier of English football. However, Jansson missed both legs of the dramatic play-off semi-final, culminating in Derby County making the final.

Jansson has featured 120 times for Leeds since his move, initally on loan, from Serie A side Torino three years ago now. He also featured in last summer's World Cup, in Sweden's run to the quarter-final.

Fulham had the worst defensive record of the 2018/19 Premier League season, as they conceded an astonishing 81 goals on their way to relegation, so defenders are likely to be high on Scott Parker's agenda.

The Swede is a fan favourite at Elland Road, praised for his application, no-nonsense approach and tough-tackling style which has seen him endear himself to the Leeds faithful.

Perhaps that is what Fulham need. A defender who is willing to put his body on the line, more often than not, the players were accused of not caring, not trying and generally not committing themselves fully to the cause.

Although it is unlikely that the former Malmo man would be allowed to leave the club, the singing of Ben White perhaps signals that it is definitely possible, if not probable that Fulham could tie up a deal for Jansson.



https://the72.co.uk/137062/fulham-keen-on-leeds-defender/

[WhiteJC]

Aleksandar Mitrovic might be better option than Gomez for West Ham

West Ham might just be better off targeting Aleksandar Mitrovic instead of Maxi Gomez this summer.

The latest round of reports claims that the 22-year-old would prefer a move to Valencia, with Champions League football on offer.

And the Hammers should drop out of the race to sign the Uruguayan. Why put so much effort into signing a player who clearly doesn't want to join you?

And Fulham hitman Mitrovic, 24, might actually be a better option for West Ham.

The Serbian is a big and powerful number nine, and he possesses all of the attributes that Manuel Pellegrini's side currently lack.

Despite the fact that his side got relegated last term, he has spent the past few seasons playing in the Premier League

He earns £60k-a-week with the Cottagers (Spotrac) – a salary that the east London outfit could easily match.

His ability to hold the ball up and link the play between midfield and attack is exactly what the Hammers need, and his arrival at the London Stadium would bring out the best in the likes of Pablo Fornals, Manu Lanzini and Felipe Anderson.

Aleksandar Mitrovic also boasts a decent goalscoring record. He has racked up 109 goals in 289 career appearances. And he would surely improve further still on the ratio at West Ham, considering how much quality they have in midfield and on the wings.

Mitrovic better value than Gomez?

Gomez won't be sold for anything less than £45 million this summer, according to Spanish media outlet Marca.

Mitrovic, meanwhile, could be available for just £30 million, according to the Express.

That seems to be far better value for West Ham, especially considering the fact that he's proven in England.

And Pellegrini must do all he can to being the Serbian to the London Stadium this summer.

He'd be a cheaper, and arguably better option than Gomez.



https://www.hammers.news/club-news/aleksandar-mitrovic-might-be-better-option-than-gomez-for-west-ham/

[WhiteJC]

From Gianluigi Buffon to Mario Balotelli... the array of elite level superstars who are available for FREE this summer after contract expiration

    A number of huge name footballers are available on free transfers this summer
    Teams can pick up free agents who have run down their contract at a club
    The likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Mario Balotelli and Arjen Robben all need teams
    Sportsmail takes a look at how some of the best options could fit together

With the calendar year now ticking over into July, a host of elite level footballers have become free agents following the expiration of their contracts.

As of July 1, footballers whose contract were set to elapse in the summer now find themselves officially without a club

With the pool of available talent brimming like never before, Sportsmail takes a look at some of the best bargains out there and how they all fit together.

Goalkeeper - Gianluigi Buffon

The legendary Italian stopper is available this summer after opting to not extend his short-term deal with Paris Saint Germain.

Buffon is one of the few players who can be counted as a living legend of the game, having won absolutely everything in football bar the Champions League.

Thus far giving no indication on his next move, it remains unclear whether Buffon will join a side and make one final bid for European glory... or pursue a hugely lucrative contract in Asia of further afield.

Other free options: Guillermo Ochoa, Adrian.

Full-back - Dani Alves

The man who needs no introduction. For a large portion of his career, Dani Alves was the standout full-back in European football.

Reinventing the position with flair and ferocity, Alves enjoyed successful spells with both Juventus and PSG.

After coming to the end of his contract, Alves is now available as the most welcome of freebies. His wages, however, are likely to be sizeable.

Other free options: Filipe Luis

Centre-back - Gary Cahill

The Chelsea stalwart was given an emotional farewell by the club following the end of the previous campaign.

After staying at Stamford Bridge in January and rejecting a loan move away, Cahill proved he still wants to feature at the highest level, if called upon.

With a wealth of International, Premier League and European experience under his belt, Cahill is unlikely to be short of suitors.

Other free options: Thomas Vermaelen

Centre-back - Neven Subotic

The no-nonsense Yugoslavia was one of the golden boys of Jurgen Klopp's Borussia Dortmund era, making a name for himself by going up against the best and often coming out on top.

Following a spell with Saint Etienne Subotic, now 30, is on the hunt for a new challenge.

Full-back - Alberto Moreno

The pacey Spaniard arrived at Liverpool as a bag of raw potential, who many fans thought could morph into the second coming of Jordi Alba.

Things on Merseyside didn't quite work out for Moreno, who will be better remembered for his mistakes rather than moments of skill.

At just 26 however, the Spaniard represents a sublime bargain and is heavily tipped to make an imminent return to La Liga.

Winger - Arjen Robben

After sprinkling an era with joy and glory, Robben has called time on his Bayern Munich reign.

Despite his ageing years, Robben proved repeatedly that he still has that elite mentality, application and end product.

A Premier League return could well be on the cards, with a host of clubs now financially comfortable enough to splash out on higher wages.

Other free options: Franck Ribery

Centre midfield - Yohan Cabaye

France international Cabaye is a seasoned veteran when it comes to elite level football.

A stint with PSG was sandwiched in between two Premier League runs with Newcastle and Crystal Palace, before the ball-playing star made a lucrative switch to Al-Nassr in Dubai.

Now available for free, it's likely Cabaye could embrace one final big challenge.

Other free options: Ander Herrera

Centre midfield - Samir Nasri

After showing flashes of brilliance for West Ham, Nasri is now available as a bargain freebie.

The Frenchman took a short-term deal in East London upon his return from a drugs ban, and could offer high reward for a team willing to take a chance on him.

Other free options: Adrien Rabiot, Keisuke Honda

Winger - Hatem Ben Arfa

After a short period with Rennes, the ever divisive Hatem Ben Arfa is on the move again.

When he is in the mood, Ben Arfa has previously shown he can be one of the most potent attackers in European football. Newcastle United and Nice supporters will testify.

Now 32 however, the risk of taking on the livewire may outweigh the reward.

Other free options: Abel Hernandez, Bakary Sako

Forward - Mario Balotelli

The Italian is looking for a new club after a quite impressive eight goals in 12 games for French giants Marseille.

The enigmatic star got the move from Nice after dominating in Ligue 1, but now appears to have outgrown the French league.

Manchester City and Liverpool have both been graced with his presence to mixed result, though calls from Premier League clubs this summer are to be expected.

Other free options: Andy Carroll, Wilfried Bony

Forward - Danny Welbeck

Perhaps one of the most unfortunate men in world football, Welbeck is an absolute bargain this summer but comes with huge fitness worry.

After making do with a massively reduced role at Arsenal due to his repeat visits to the treatment room, Welbeck is looking to get back among the goals for someone and enjoy a prolonged run of action.

One labelled among the best finishers in the Premier League by the iconic Arsene Wenger, Welbeck could still have some magic in the tank to go out with a bang.

Other free options: Daniel Sturridge





https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-7201619/From-Gianlugi-Buffon-Mario-Balotelli-best-free-agents-summer-2019.html

[WhiteJC]

2 pros and 2 cons to Fulham sealing move for 28-year-old

With the new Championship campaign scheduled to kick-off in just under five-weeks' time, Fulham boss Scott Parker will unquestionably be looking to add some much-needed quality to a defence which conceded 81 goals last season in the Premier League.

Therefore, given the scale of these issues, it is not at all surprising that the 38-year-old has been linked with a player who has an excellent track-record of producing the goods in the second-tier.

According to Daily Telegraph journalist Matt Law, Fulham are reportedly interested in signing Pontus Jansson from Leeds United.

If this is indeed true, it is imperative that Parker considers both the positives as well as the negatives that the Sweden international could have on the Cottagers' fortunes next season before making an offer.

Keeping this in mind, we have set out two pros as well as two cons to Fulham sealing a move for Jansson based on his career to date.

Check them out below...

Pros

He was excellent for Leeds last season

One of Leeds' star performers last season, Jansson was utterly outstanding throughout the year and was very unlucky not to achieve promotion to the Premier League.

Such was the defender's importance to the Whites, it could be argued that if he was passed fit for club's play-off showdown with Derby County in May, Marcelo Bielsa's side may well have been preparing for their return to the top-flight this summer.

A domineering presence at the back, Jansson would undoubtedly take Fulham's defence to new heights during the upcoming campaign if they can somehow convince him to move away from Elland Road.

He could establish a fruitful partnership alongside Alfie Mawson

Although Alfie Mawson has failed to reach the heights which were expected of him when he joined the Cottagers in 2018, a new defensive partner could allow him to thrive in the Championship over the next 10 months.

Having aided Liam Cooper's development at Leeds in recent years, Jansson may be able to repeat the feat with the aforementioned centre-back at Fulham which in turn will help Parker in his quest to secure an immediate return to the top-flight in 2020.

Cons

He is prone to the occasional lapse in concentration

Whereas there is no doubting Jansson's leadership skills, he is prone to an occasional lapse in concentration with his sending off against Stoke City last December being a prime example of this.

Considering that Fulham already have a number of defenders at their disposal who have a worrying reputation of making mistakes, they can ill-afford to bring in another player that cannot be trusted.

Signing him certainly won't be cheap

With the best Championship players going for premium prices in today's market, it may take a huge offer to secure the services of Jansson as Leeds will be extremely reluctant to let him go on the cheap.

Having spent over £100m last summer, it may be wise if the Cottagers steer away from going down the same route during the current transfer window regardless of how good the 28-year-old is as it is not financially viable to continue to splash the cash following a relegation.

Instead of focusing on Jansson, Parker could look to improve his defence by bringing in free agents or scouring the lower divisions for talent as there are a plethora of players available who could be more than capable of performing in the second-tier for Fulham.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/2-pros-and-2-cons-to-fulham-sealing-move-for-28-year-old/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Cannot Repeat The Mistakes Of Last Season, Or Can They As Deja-Vu Is Looking Likely

The Fulham owner's son Tony Khan admitted that mistakes were made in the player selection process last season that led to the club bringing in 15 additions to the first team squad.

Six of these were loanees that have now returned to their previous clubs:

Goalkeeper – Sergio Rico
Defenders – Calum Chambers, Havard Nordtveit and Timothy Fosu-Mensah
Forwards – Andre Schurrle and Luciano Vietto

Two short term purchases have also departed – Ryan Babel and Lazar Markovic

That equals a total of 8 (more than half) of those brought in have already gone.

Out of the remaining 7, it seems highly likely that 3 more will follow shortly – Fabri, Le-Marchand and Seri.

That would leave just 4.

Thankfully they are the most likely of the whole 15 that would be beneficial in Scott Parker's quest for an immediate return to the Premier League – Alfie Mawson, Joe Bryan, Andre-Frank Anguissa and Alek Mitrovic.

However, two of these are currently high on the list of predators hoping to persuade them to leave Craven Cottage. They are two of our best performers of last season, Mitrovic and Bryan.

With just five weeks remaining of the Championship window before it closes, once again we seem to be slow off the mark. One of our star defenders we tried unsuccessfully to bring back to the Cottage, Matt Targett has now been gathered up by Premier League returners Aston Villa.

Had we been a bit quicker and paid the going rate last season, perhaps our defence would have been a tad stronger.

I am sure Scottie is aware of the players he needs to give us a shot at finishing in the top six next season.

Where are they and why are we holding back again?

Another reason why I suggest Deja Vu is that the bookies make us favourites alongside Leeds for automatic promotion.

WHY?

We had an awful season in the top division, are on our third manager in a year (Scott Parker who has not had a full season's managerial experience yet), another virtual change of players inevitable, and a lack of confidence that needs immediate improvement.

Last season we were bookies favourite to finish in the top half of the Premier League. Expectations were high after a spending spree of over £100 million

The rest is history.

We need to hurry up and grab the players Scottie needs to give them a few weeks to settle before the season begins.

We do not want the same start to this season as last. If it does, Parker's first managerial role could prove to be a very short one.



https://fulham.vitalfootball.co.uk/fulham-cannot-repeat-the-mistakes-of-last-season-or-can-they-as-deja-vu-is-looking-likely/

[WhiteJC]

Academy Staff Update

The Academy coaching structure has been confirmed ahead of the new season which sees a number of adjustments to staff roles.

Mark Pembridge will be joined by Colin Omogbehin who steps in as joint Head Coach for the Under-23s following his spell in charge of the Under-18s.

The vacant Under-18s role will be taken by Steve Wigley following the appointment of Ben Bartlett as Head of Academy Coaching. Wigley will be joined by Ali Melloul, who steps up at Professional Development Phase Manager and Under-18 Assistant Head Coach.

Andrew Watt has moved from Under-9s & 10s Head Coach to Youth Development Phase Manager.

Lastly, Marcus Herron will now take on the role of Foundation Phase Manager.




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/july/02/academy-staff-update

[WhiteJC]

Middlesbrough star attracting interest from Asia and Middle-East amidst Fulham and Sheffield United links

According to reports from TEAMtalk, Middlesbrough striker Britt Assombalonga is now wanted by clubs in China and the Middle-East.

The Middlesbrough forward has also been attracting attention from Premier League new boys Sheffield United and recently relegated Fulham, although no substantial bids have been made as of yet.

Boro are looking to recoup the majority, if not all, of the £15 million paid to Nottingham Forest back in 2017, but the English clubs previously posing an interest are not willing to meet the asking price set by the Teessiders.

There is plenty of money to be spent in the Chinese Super League and in the Middle-East, with big name signings such as Hulk, Oscar and Paulinho in China, and the likes of Asamoah Gyan and former Atletico Madrid captain Gabi making high profile moves in recent years to the United Arab Emirates and Qatar respectively.

Jonathan Woodgate's Middlesbrough are keen on keeping hold of Assombalonga however, but they may not be able to turn down an offer if it did match their valuation of their number nine.

Currently at the club, Assombalonga is competing for a starting place with Ashley Fletcher, of whom he formed a good partnership with at the back end of the season, Rudy Gestede, who may be on his way out during this transfer window, and Martin Braithwaite, who recently returned back to Teesside following his successful loan spell in La Liga with Leganes.

Since arriving at Middlesbrough, Assombalonga has scored 30 goals in 92 appearances, an impressive record considering Boro's goal-shy efforts in recent seasons.



https://the72.co.uk/137250/middlesbrough-star-attracting-interest-from-asia-and-middle-east-amidst-fulham-and-sheffield-united-links/

[WhiteJC]

Former Chelsea, Brighton, Fulham and Swindon Town midfielder joins Cheltenham Town

Centre of pitch strengthened


Rohan Ince in action for Brighton against Leicester City's Jamie Vardy

Cheltenham Town have signed former Brighton midfielder Rohan Ince on a one-year deal.

The 6ft 4in 26-year-old becomes the Robins' fourth new signing of the summer following defender Charlie Raglan and front men Tahvon Campbell and Reuben Reid.

London-born Ince started his career at Chelsea, joining them at the age of seven and signing his first professional contract in 2010.

He spent time on loan at Gary Johnson's Yeovil Town and made his Football League debut for the Glovers in 2012 before signing for Brighton the following year and playing regularly in the Championship.

He appeared against Cheltenham in the first round of the League Cup at the Amex in August 2014, when the Seagulls ran out 2-0 winners.

Ince also appeared on loan for Fulham, Swindon Town and Bury during his six years at Brighton.

He missed the whole of last season with a knee injury, but is understood to have undergone rigorous fitness tests ahead of putting pen to paper with the Robins.

Boss Michael Duff was keen to strengthen his midfield, with Nigel Atangana and Kevin Dawson leaving to join Exeter City and Forest Green Rovers respectively after turning down new deals with the Robins.

Tom Smith was placed on the transfer list and has signed a two-year deal with Bath City, while the loan spells of Jordan Tillson and Jacob Maddox both ended at the end of last season.

That left Duff with Chris Clements and Conor Thomas as his two main options in the centre of the pitch, with Ryan Broom and first year professional Archie Brennan also able to play there.

Converted from a centre-half into a holding midfielder at Brighton, Ince is the third cousin of former England and Manchester United star Paul Ince and nephew of ex-Brighton and Crystal Palace defender Eric Young.

"He's had a good schooling where he's come from at Chelsea and had 80 or 90 games for Brighton in the Championship," Duff said.

"When I played against him he was the next big thing coming through.

"He's been a bit unfortunate with his injury last year. We've done all the due diligence with regards to testing, seeing specialists, scanning - we think we've found a very good player.

"He's 6ft 4in powerful, but he can play as well. We're hoping he can add physicality and quality into our midfield."



https://www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/former-chelsea-brighton-fulham-swindon-3044593

[WhiteJC]

Welcoming New Scholars

The inaugural annual scholar induction evening saw the welcoming of seven new players making the transition from the Under-16s to Under-18s.

Mika Biereth, Adrion Pajaziti, Luciano D'Auria-Henry, Mac Chisholm, Ibane Bowat, Ollie O'Neill and Idris Odutayo make up the cut of young players that will start their footballing journey with Fulham Football Club on a scholarship basis.

The vast majority had already seen a sizable number of minutes in Colin Omogbehin's Under-18s side throughout last season.

We'd like to wish the lads every success at the Club.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/july/02/new-scholars-announcement

[WhiteJC]

Leeds selling Jansson to Fulham could hamper their promotion hopes

This article is part of Football FanCast's Transfer Focus series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent transfer news...

According to reputable Telegraph journalist Matt Law, Fulham are keen on signing Pontus Jansson from Leeds United.

This isn't the first United player that Scott Parker's team have shown an interest in this summer as they have previously looked at Adam Forshaw.

What's the story?

This could be a summer of significant departures for the Whites. Jack Clarke has already moved to Spurs for a fee in excess of £9m, and now Jansson is being targeted by the London club.

With the club rejecting a move worth around £10m for the Swede last summer, the Whites could be in for another hefty windfall if they choose to sell the 28-year-old.

Shouldn't sell to a rival

This is the second time this summer Fulham have looked at a Leeds player, but unlike Forshaw, Jansson is a key man at Elland Road.

The Swede has been one of the first names on the teamsheet for Marcelo Bielsa since he arrived at the club, making 39 appearances in the league last term, and losing him to a direct Championship rival could come back to bite them.

Only three teams go up from this division each season, and if Leeds sell Jansson to Fulham, it will certainly aid the latter's chances of taking one of those spots.



https://www.footballfancast.com/championship/leeds/leeds-selling-jansson-to-fulham-could-hamper-their-promotion-hopes

[WhiteJC]

West Ham Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's friendly against West Ham United at Craven Cottage go on sale to 2019/20 Season Ticket Holders at 10am on Wednesday 3rd July.

Our final outing before the Sky Bet Championship campaign commences, and our only pre-season fixture at home, make sure you're there to cheer on the lads against Scott Parker's former club.

Tickets are priced at £20 for adults, £15 for concessions and £10 for juniors, with Fulham supporters seated in the Hammersmith End and Johnny Haynes Stand. Please note that Season Ticket Holders' seats will not be reserved, with tickets sold on a first come first served basis.

2019/20 Members will be able to purchase tickets from Wednesday 10th July. Tickets may go on General Sale at a later date, subject to availability.

Matchday Hospitality

Fans can also watch our pre-season fixture from the comfort of the Superbox at Craven Cottage.

Priced at £90 per person (inc. VAT), your Hospitality package comes with a two-course buffet served pre-match alongside inclusive drinks throughout the day and private balcony seating to enjoy the match.

Available to purchase now, fans can buy online anytime or by phone on 0208 336 7555 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5:30pm).



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/july/02/west-ham-tickets

[WhiteJC]

USMNT's Tim Ream, Nick Lima expect firm semifinal test against Jamaica

Aside from the badges on the jerseys, US men's national team defender Tim Ream expects few similarities between Wednesday night's Gold Cup semifinal against Jamaica at Nashville's Nissan Stadium (9:30 pm ET | FS1, Univision, UDN) and the teams' friendly last month.

Back in June at Audi Field in Washington, Jamaica beat the US 1-0 behind Shamar Nicholson's goal from distance in a tournament tuneup for both sides. Although it was a decidedly poor US performance even considering the circumstances — "slow and methodical" as Ream puts it — there were also some contributing factors, he said.

"It's a very different feel now," Ream said. "We had a lot of guys trying to get up to speed fitness-wise, guys coming from Europe who had been off 2-3 weeks and had been out of season, and then you bring in the guys who had been playing in MLS and only had like 1-2 days training with the team, so it was a bit of a mixed team really, with some of the young guys who were at the camp in Annapolis getting some good minutes."

Ream and D.C. United's Paul Arriola were the only two starters from that match who went on to be in coach Gregg Berhalter's preferred starting XI for two of the last three Gold Cup games, including their 1-0 quarterfinal win over Curacao.

And although the US went on to concede three goals in their final pre-tournament friendly against Venezuela, they haven't allowed a goal since in four Gold Cup matches.

That's a definitive sign of improvement, but not a finished product, says San Jose Earthquakes defender Nick Lima.

"We've had some moments where we've got to go back and look on it — our communication — and continue to improve," Lima said. "This is the semis, it's the next stage. It's one game away from the finals, but we're continuing to grow, and that's what we plan to do in this next game, and be even more of a force. And that's the goal, another shutout."

For Ream, more informative than that previous match against The Reggae Boyz has been the way they've played during its own four-game tournament run. Particularly their penchant for strong starts, having scored two of their five tournament goals inside the opening 15 minutes and three before halftime.

"They've shown over the tournament that they start out games really, really fast," Ream said. "And that's something that's probably a little bit hard to sustain in the temperatures that we're playing in and the conditions. For us, we're expecting a fast, physical game as you always get with a team like Jamaica. They'll be very quick on counterattacks and transitions, and that's something that we'll definitely have to be aware of."



https://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2019/07/02/usmnts-tim-ream-nick-lima-expect-firm-semifinal-test-against-jamaica

[WhiteJC]

Matchday Hospitality On Sale

Matchday Hospitality packages for the 2019/20 campaign are now available to purchase at all league fixtures.

While improvements at Craven Cottage are underway, our 2019/20 Hospitality offering will take place at a new, exclusive off-site location - Fulham Palace.

Located just minutes away from Craven Cottage in the heart of Bishops Park, Fulham Palace has played host to dignitaries and royals for over 1,000 years and is the perfect place for you and your guests to experience hospitality before watching the match action unfold from seats in the Putney End.

A limited number of Hospitality packages will be on offer to enjoy at Craven Cottage, with the Superbox - a shared suite offering private balcony seating located beside the Hammersmith End - also available across matchdays this season.

To see the packages available for the 2019/20 season click here. Or you can contact our hospitality team directly on (+44) 020 8336 7555, (Mon-Fri, 9am-5.30am), or simply email [email protected] anytime.



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2019/july/02/matchday-hospitality-on-sale

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Target Pontus Jansson Tight-lipped Over Leeds United Future

Leeds United centre-back Pontus Jansson is in no mood to answer questions over his future at Elland Road.

The Whites defender is attracting strong interest from Fulham, with the Cottagers looking to equip their squad for a season back in the Championship.

Leeds have just sold Jack Clarke to Tottenham Hotspur, meaning cash has flowed into the Elland Road coffers, but the Whites may look to make more sales, especially if they want to back Marcelo Bielsa to make permanent signings.

Jansson is considered one of Leeds' most saleable assets, but, back home in Sweden, the centre-back is not willing to be drawn on his future.

Questioned by Swedish daily Expressen following a session keeping fit at Malmo's training base, Jansson would only say: "I have nothing to say."

Leeds have just brought in another centre-back to provide competition for Jansson and his fellow defender Liam Cooper, with Ben White arriving on loan.

Even so, eyebrows would likely be raised if Leeds opted to cash in on Jansson, who has been a standout performer since arriving at Elland Road in the summer of 2016.

Jansson has been clear about his desire to play in the Premier League, but has always insisted he wants to do so with Leeds.



Read more: http://www.insidefutbol.com/2019/07/02/fulham-target-pontus-jansson-tight-lipped-over-leeds-united-future/426894/#ixzz5sb3KZAlE

[WhiteJC]

Club expert begs Leeds cash in on 'selfish' £10million ace amid rumoured interest

Former Leeds striker and club expert Noel Whelan has told Football Insider that United should be looking to cash in on Pontus Jansson amid interest from likely promotion rivals Fulham, as the 28-year-old puts himself before the club.

Jansson was a regular member of Marcelo Bielsa's Whites line-up during the boss' inaugural season at Elland Road, with the 6 ft 3 centre-back listed in the starting XI for 37 of our Championship fixtures during the 2018/19 term.

Fulham are now thought to be looking into a potential swoop on West Yorkshire for the Sweden international, as they look to sure up a backline that conceded more goals than any other Premier League side as they crashed out of the top-flight at the first time of asking.

No official approach or bid from the Craven Cottage outfit has yet been muted, with Scott Parker currently looking into potential candidates his South West London side could target, having already been linked with another United ace in Adam Forshaw.

If Jansson is unable to demonstrate that he is fully committed to the Whites cause in pre-season training, Whelan feels the club should accept an approach from the Cottagers if one is made. They may face heavy competition for the 20-cap star's services, though, as the BBC Radio Leeds commentator believes there is a £10million asking price on the towering defender.

"It all depends on whether Jansson comes back to pre-season positive, in good nick, and happy about another season in the Championship," Whelan said. "He needs to come back with a leader kind of attitude.

"I don't know what he and his agent have been saying to each other. If he wants to stay, and is hungry to perform, [then] great. If not, get rid, let him go, and we will pick up players who want to play for Leeds United.

"He has to be fully committed to it [promotion]. If his head isn't right, there's no point [in keeping him].

"I think they value him at £10million, and there will probably be a few interested clubs at that price.

"Some people were angry when I criticised Jansson at the end of last season, but I've seen him be selfish, and put himself ahead of the team."



https://leeds.vitalfootball.co.uk/club-expert-begs-leeds-cash-in-on-selfish-10million-ace-amid-rumoured-interest/

[WhiteJC]

How Barnsley could line up vs Fulham if transfer rumours are to be believed

Barnsley will be preparing for life back in the Championship, after winning promotion from League One under Daniel Stendel last season.

The Tykes have already lost some notable names heading into the summer though, which supporters will worry could disrupt their pre-season plans.

But how can we expect Barnsley to line up for their first game of the season against Fulham if transfer rumours are to be believed?

Find out below....



The Tykes have already confirmed the signing of goalkeeper, Samuel Sahin-Radlinger and central defender, Mads Anderson, who are likely to go straight into the starting XI.

According to Football Insider, Stendel's side have been linked with a move for Leeds defender, Aapo Halme, who is reportedly set to undergo a medical at Oakwell in the near future.

Barnsley need to replace the sizeable void left by Liam Lindsay who departed for Stoke, and Ethan Pinnock who recently left for a move to Brentford.

Sam Winnall has emerged as a surprise transfer target for the Tykes (according to the Sheffield Star), and he'd certainly have a point to prove in the Championship, after an injury-hit couple of seasons.

Winger, Luke Thomas signed from Derby earlier in the transfer window, and he'd be a certain starter for the Tykes in the Championship.

Mallik Wilks is another Leeds player that has been linked with a move to Oakwell (according to Football Insider) and he's another player that would have a point to prove in the second tier of English football, with Wilks not being given a chance in the Leeds first-team.

He could play behind Kieffer Moore, who was hugely impressive for the Tykes last season, scoring 17 goals in their promotion from League One.

Daniel Stendel will be hoping that he can make the necessary additions to his squad, as they look to establish themselves in the Championship in their first season back.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/how-barnsley-could-line-up-vs-fulham-if-transfer-rumours-are-to-be-believed/