Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 26/08/20...

[WhiteJC]

Bristol City keen on move for in-demand Fulham defender

Bristol City are keen on signing in-demand Fulham right-back Steven Sessegnon, according to Gregor MacGregor from the Bristol Post.

The Robins landed their first signing of the summer earlier this month, signing defensive midfielder Joe Williams from Wigan Athletic and beating out reported competition from the likes of Middlesbrough, Leeds United and West Bromwich Albion.

New City head coach Dean Holden is preparing for his first season in the senior job and will be looking to strengthen his squad further before the Championship gets back underway next month.

MacGregor has reported that the Bs3 outfit are interested in signing Sessegnon from Fulham but face competition from other clubs in the division.

It is understood that City want to sign at least one defender this summer with right-back a priority after Pedro Pereira returned to Benfica at the end of his loan spell.

Sessegnon would certainly help to fill that void and provide competition for Jack Hunt and Zak Vyner.

The 20-year-old had a really impressive spell for Fulham early on last season but ultimately fell out of favour, due in part to injury issues, and it's difficult to see him battling back into the side now they're in the Premier League and following the arrival of Antonee Robinson.

The Verdict

This looks as if it could be a shrewd move to me.

There was a spell early on last season when the 20-year-old really impressed and there's an awful lot to like about him – he's dynamic, industrious and has can certainly offer something in the final third.

City need to bolster their options in their backline and this signing would help them to do just that.

It's not clear whether their interest is in a loan or permanent deal but I think either would be a smart move and the defender would surely be keen as it looks like it may be tough for him to get regular chances in the senior side this term.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/bristol-city-keen-on-move-for-in-demand-fulham-defender/

[WhiteJC]

 Marek Rodak's rise at Fulham: How loans helped him become stats star
Marek Rodak was one of the heroes of Fulham's promotion to the Premier League but his goalkeeper skills were honed at a level far below that. In conversation with Rodak's former coaches and team-mates, Adam Bate traces his journey from Welling to the top flight.

Marek Rodak did not have too much to do in the Championship play-off final. The decisive error came from David Raya at the other end. But ask any Fulham fan to name the key factors in their promotion to the Premier League and the name of their Slovakia goalkeeper will soon come up.

It was his efforts in the semi-final against Cardiff - what manager Scott Parker called "a big performance" by his goalkeeper - that earned Fulham their spot at Wembley. It was his efforts over the course of the campaign that saved his side at the back time and time again.

Rodak, 23, did not even start the season as Fulham's first choice in goal. But Parker's decision to turn to him in favour of Marcus Bettinelli helped to transform their fortunes.

The statistics highlight his impact. It was not that Bettinelli was performing poorly. The number of goals he had conceded in those opening months of the season were in line with what the models expected given the shots that he faced. But as soon as Rodak took over, that changed. He kept out shots he should not have been able to stop.

His success was vindication for Parker and the culmination of a remarkable rise for the young man who came over to England to join Fulham's academy soon after turning 16.

The experiences have been wide and varied since then. A brief stint in the sixth tier with Farnborough. Relegation from the National League with Welling United. A strong spell at Accrington Stanley before ups and downs with Rotherham. Character building, they call it.

If Farnborough was the introduction, Welling was where Rodak had to grow up fast. At the age of 19, he found himself at the foot of England's fifth division. The club had lost their last four games when he arrived conceding four at home to Grimsby and five against Carlisle.

Their only win in the previous three months had come in the FA Cup against Barwell - a team playing in the first round for the first time. This was Welling not Wembley.


Rodak celebrates promotion to the Premier League with his team-mates

Mike McEntegart was the goalkeeper whom Rodak was brought in to replace. He had more reason than most to be aggrieved by the Slovakian's arrival and though he admits he "did not particularly like being displaced by him" his recollections are positive. The pair got on well and remained in touch even though it was a season to forget for Welling.

"In the context of what he would have been doing at Fulham, coming into a Welling training session must have looked like an absolute shambles," McEntegart tells Sky Sports.

"It was a different world but he was not big time. He was a very humble, easy-going guy. Whatever he was asked to do, he was very happy to do it. That sort of work ethic is rare."

At 26, McEntegart was one of the more senior players in an inexperienced squad that was self-evidently ill-equipped for the rough and tumble of the National League.

"We had three managers so it was a bit turbulent," he adds.

Dean Frost was the second of those managers - in charge for all but two of Rodak's 17 games for Welling. A straight-talking London cabbie by trade, he remembers the young goalkeeper as a laid-back sort of character who was funny without realising it.

Mainly he remembers the predicament in which he found himself as a manager. The stresses and strains that would occupy his thoughts as he drove around the capital.

"It was a very young team and some of the players probably weren't ready for Conference football," Frost tells Sky Sports. "I had no money and I had to cut the wage bill. The only lads I could get in were lads who were on a free from their pro clubs. Not really the ideal players to get you out of a relegation fight. It can be pretty brutal in that league."

For Rodak, this was some introduction to senior football. He did not win any of the first 13 games. When his loan was over he had conceded 33 goals and not kept a single clean sheet.

"At Welling, he had quite a lot to do," says Frost with deliberate understatement.

"There were games where we were under a lot of pressure. He was called upon quite regularly and had lots of saves to make. He made mistakes but if people are open-minded and willing to look at themselves, they learn from them. You are better off making mistakes when you are starting your career and looking at them as an opportunity to improve.

"I have seen goalkeepers who were fazed. After a mistake, the ball is going in the box again and you are thinking he is going to need a couple of catches to get back in the game. With Marek, it did not faze him. He was relaxed and that is a great attribute to have because you do not want your goalkeeper to be a bag of nerves. Marek refocused and moved on."


Rodak had to cope with the physicality of playing in the lower leagues

As well as the mental challenge, there was the physical one. This was not the cossetted world of Premier League goalkeeping where protection comes not just from the referees but the cameras covering every possible infringement. Frost remembers "centre-forwards charging him down" and "lots of high balls" flying into the box. A test for the teenager.

"It is probably the best experience you can get as a young goalkeeper," adds McEntegart. "It still has that raw physicality. You have got old-school forwards in and around you at corners where all they are looking to do is put you off. They have to be clever in the Premier League with the cameras but at the lower level those fouls still happen. It is a good learning curve."

Despite the difficult circumstances, Rodak was able to impress. Frost recalls a goalkeeper who was "tall, agile, good at shot-stopping and could kick well" - but the most telling praise comes from McEntegart, now a goalkeeper coach himself working with young players.

"When you first meet him, it is the size and frame of him," he says of the 6'5" Rodak. "But it was the way that he moved that told you he was going to be a top goalkeeper."


Rodak makes a save during the 2014 FA Youth Cup final against Chelsea

Accrington recognised that potential the following season and his reputation was enhanced by a loan to League Two. Rodak was instrumental in the team's 13-game unbeaten run that saw John Coleman's side move from near the foot of the table to the brink of the play-offs.

The goalkeeper's performances caught the eye of Rotherham boss Paul Warne and his staff, who were impressed by Rodak's approach to the challenge - and one trait of his, in particular.

"Fulham to Accrington is a world away so we knew his character would be good," Warne tells Sky Sports. "But the main reason that we were attracted to signing him is that he was brave. I like my goalkeeper to come for crosses not just to stay on the line all the time. He is a really confident kid. Quite vocal, which is good for a goalkeeper. That is why we took him."


Paul Warne was a huge admirer of Rodak's willingness to come off his line

Rodak ended up playing a pivotal role in Rotherham's promotion to the Championship as they beat Shrewsbury in the 2018 League One play-off final at Wembley. He likes that place.

The loan move went so well he remained with the club for their season in the second tier, experiencing another relegation but learning lots more in the process.

"He had plenty to do and he did it admirably," says Warne. "He would often be able to pull out that one-on-one save to earn us three points when we needed him to."

It was just the next phase in his development.

"Marek came as a seven and left as an eight or a nine. He improved in everything."

Warne highlights the working relationship between Rodak and goalkeeping coach Mike Pollitt as a positive one, while also pointing to the big games in the play-offs and the intense atmosphere experienced at a packed New York Stadium. "I am sure that helped him."


Rodak is mobbed by Rotherham supporters during their promotion season

He believes Rodak's spells away with Slovakia were a benefit too. "The international call-ups built him as a man and a player," says Warne. Accepting that this was a young man far from home, attempts were made to accommodate him where possible too. "Whenever we could we let him go home because he liked to go fishing with his dad. That was his relaxation."

Ultimately, relegation meant Rotherham were unable to persuade Rodak to stay on for a third season back in League One. Warne tried his best but is honest about the situation.

"We attempted it but he respectfully said he wanted to play in the Championship and rightfully so. If I were his adviser I would not have told him to come back either."

Warne expected Rodak to be loaned out again but instead the chance came at Fulham in October and it was seized upon. In fact, Rodak showcased another quality to his game - displaying the concentration skills that are essential in a top goalkeeper.

His former coaches have taken note.

"At the highest level, goalkeepers tend to be out of the game for 15 minutes, it is what they do when they are called upon," says Frost.

Warne agrees.

"There is that much time when the ball is up the other end - even more so at Fulham because they keep the ball so long - that there might not be a shot until the 70th minute."

Perhaps that is a scenario Rodak will not have to concern himself with now that are Fulham find themselves up against some of the best sides in Europe in the Premier League. But in adding another element to his game, he has justified Parker's faith in him.

"I thought he would eventually be Fulham's No 1 but you can never be sure because bigger clubs can end up signing someone else from Benfica for £12m instead, "says Warne. "You need someone to back you. The manager backed him and he hasn't looked back since."

For Frost, now taking a break from football so that he can enjoy more time with his young daughter, there is a quiet satisfaction at seeing a former player reach the Premier League.

"He needed to be in the right place at the right time," he says. "There are these sliding door moments, there's a dip in form or the manager decided just to give you a go.

"Of course, you never would have known that he was going to be winning at Wembley and helping to take a team to the Premier League. But you like to think you played a little part."

As for McEntegart, who for what it is worth did keep a clean sheet for Welling that season, losing his place to a teenager does not feel quite so bad now as it did at the time.

"Looking back on it," he says, "I was probably a bit unlucky it was Marek."



https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11681/12050404/marek-rodaks-rise-at-fulham-how-loans-helped-him-become-stats-star

[WhiteJC]

QPR reject another offer from Crystal Palace for Eze

QPR have turned down another offer from Crystal Palace for Ebere Eze but negotiations between the two clubs are continuing.

The Eagles have been interested in Eze for more than two years and had an approach for him rejected in January.

Earlier this month they had a £12m bid turned down by Rangers, who want £20m for the forward.

Palace saw no reason to increase that as they were aware theirs was the only bid on the table.

But with Fulham having indicated they were ready to better Palace's offer, the south London club made another approach to QPR.

Their latest proposal has been rejected too but at this stage it looks and though Eze, 22, will end up at Selhurst Park.

Prior to Fulham entering the fray, the only concrete interest had been from Palace and West Ham, despite several other Premier League clubs having been linked with him.

He has a year remaining on his contract but QPR hold an option to extend that deal by 12 months, meaning he is effectively under contract until 2022.

Rangers quickly rejected Palace's initial offer in the hope that other clubs would come in for Eze and spark a bidding war.

And Fulham's interest appears to have nudged Palace towards discussing a deal which, with add-ons, would be nearer the £20m mark.

Talks between Rangers and Palace were continuing on Tuesday morning.

West Ham indicated last month that they were interested in signing Eze.

Both the Hammers and QPR hoped any deal might include Jordan Hugill moving to Loftus Road in part-exchange.

Rangers were also interested in West Ham midfielder Josh Cullen.

But Hugill, who scored 15 goals while on loan with the R's last season, opted for a move to Norwich.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/qpr/qpr-ebere-eze-crystal-palace-offer-rejected-but-talks-ongoing-2502000922

[WhiteJC]

How are promoted trio Leeds, West Brom and Fulham shaping up?
Leeds have already brought in Jack Harrison for a third season-long loan spell.

Leeds, West Brom and Fulham will begin the 2020/21 campaign in the Premier League after sealing promotion last season.

Here, the PA news agency takes a look at how the three clubs' preparations are shaping up for life back in the top flight.

Who have Leeds signed so far?
Leeds have yet to complete a stellar signing since winning the Sky Bet Championship title by a 10-point margin from West Brom, while fans are waiting anxiously for head coach Marcelo Bielsa to sign an extended contract. Winger Jack Harrison will return on a third season-long loan deal from Manchester City, goalkeeper Illan Meslier's loan from Lorient has been turned into a permanent three-year deal and young midfielders Jamie Shackleton and Alfie McCalmont have agreed new four-year contracts.

Any other new arrivals at Elland Road?
Yes. Major transfer activity remains slow due to the customary brinksmanship in the latest window, but while Leeds wait patiently to strengthen in key areas they have bolstered their Under-23 squad. Promising striker Joe Gelhardt (Wigan), defender Cody Drameh (Fulham), goalkeeper Dani Van Den Heuvel (Ajax) and Charlie Allen (Linfield) have all agreed long-term deals as the Whites forge ahead with plans to become a permanent Premier League fixture.

Are West Brom planning a big overhaul?
Manager Slaven Bilic has suggested this will not be the case after the Baggies returned to the top flight after an absence of two years. The Croat has said he will keep faith with the players who got the club over the finish line by sealing second place after a nervous run-in. Bilic believes plenty of his current players are more suited to the Premier League. "You have to change, but you don't have to change a lot," he said.

So what business have the Baggies completed?
The biggest deal West Brom are likely to seal this summer is the permanent signing of Matheus Pereira from Sporting Lisbon. The Brazilian midfielder triggered a permanent move for £8.25million in June after making his 30th start of the season and Albion recently rubber stamped it. Reports have emerged of a potential swap deal involving Sheffield United forward Callum Robinson, who spent the second half of last season on loan at The Hawthorns, with winger Oliver Burke moving in the opposite direction.

Will Fulham splash the cash again?
Fulham bounced straight back to the Premier League at the first attempt after beating Brentford in the play-off final, but do not expect them to go on a spending spree. The Cottagers forked out over £100million after promotion in 2018, but the likes of Jean Michael Seri and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa proved expensive flops as the club were relegated and owner Shahid Khan is determined not to get stung again.

So the Cottagers have learned their lesson?
Manager Scott Parker insists they have, claiming after his side's play-off triumph that teams cannot be built by making drastic changes. Fulham's ace in the pack, striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, has proven Premier League pedigree, while Anthony Knockaert's loan move from Brighton has been made permanent. Winger Neeskens Kebano has agreed a two-year contract extension and left-back Antonee Robinson has arrived from Wigan for an undisclosed fee.



https://www.bt.com/sport/news/2020/august/how-are-promoted-trio-leeds-west-brom-and-fulham-shaping-up

[WhiteJC]

Report: Fulham fail to sign free agent Lucian Favre raved about; he's joining London rivals

Fulham have failed with an approach for ex-Nice defender Malang Sarr, with the free agent set to join London neighbours Chelsea on a five-year contract, according to France Football.

It has been over six weeks since one of the most highly-rated young defenders in European football bid farewell to life on the Riviera.

But it is only now that Sarr is closing in on a new club, having spent much of the last month negotiating with the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona.

It is Chelsea who appear to have won the race, with the Nice-born 21-year-old expected to join Thiago Silva, Ben Chilwell and Kai Havertz at Stamford Bridge sooner rather than later.

According to France Football, Sarr will sign a contract until 2025 with the Blues, after Fulham tried and failed to convince the France U21 international to put pen to paper a few miles down the road at Craven Cottage instead.

Real Betis and Torino also showed an interest, while the now-departed Barcelona director Eric Abidal was keen to lure Sarr to the Camp Nou.

Interestingly, the report adds that Chelsea are expected to loan Sarr out next season, although it remains to be seen whether Fulham have a second chance to sign a man who was tipped for the top by Lucian Favre during their time together at Nice.

According to the now-Borussia Dortmund boss, this is a man with 'a lot of potential'.

Fulham conceded 48 goals en route to sealing Premier League promotion, 13 more than Leeds United, and defensive improvements are required if the Cottagers are to secure their place in the top flight again.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/08/25/report-fulham-fail-to-sign-free-agent-lucian-favre-raved-about-hes-joining-london-rivals/

[WhiteJC]

Report: £20m man wants Crystal Palace move but Eagles have another bid rejected

Crystal Palace have had a second bid for Queens Park Rangers talisman Eberechi Eze rejected, with Fulham's interest driving up his price-tag towards the £20 million bracket, according to West London Sport.

While West Ham and Fulham have done their best to throw a spanner in the works, all the signs are still pointing to Eze ending up at Selhurst Park.

The Mail reported on Monday night that the England U21 international has his heart set on injecting some much-needed cutting edge into a Palace side crying out for attacking reinforcements.

Eze is expected to snub newly-promoted Fulham in favour of their London neighbours, although whether Eagles chairman Steve Parish can agree a fee remains to be seen.

With a number of Premier League rivals entering the race, QPR are determined to make somewhere in the region of £20 million for one of the most naturally-gifted, coveted and sellable assets in Championship football.

Crystal Palace have already allegedly had a £12 million offer tossed straight into the garbage and their follow-up bid elicited a similar response from the Loftus Road outfit.

WSL do not make it clear how much Roy Hodgson's side have put on the table as part of a follow-up bid but, with QPR rejecting it out of sight again, you can only assume that it was short of that £20 million valuation.

If Palace are willing to meet QPR's demands, Eze will become the third most-expensive signing in their history.

A slaloming attacking midfielder with an eye for the spectacular, the London-born schemer produced 14 goals and eight assists in 2019/20 alone. Crystal Palace, meanwhile, were the second lowest scorers in the top flight, finding the net 31 times in 38 matches.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2020/08/25/report-20m-man-wants-crystal-palace-move-but-eagles-have-another-bid-rejected/

[WhiteJC]

Who is Steven Sessegnon? The lowdown on the Fulham full-back wanted by Bristol City

The right-back, who can also play at left-back or at centre-back, is being targeted by the Robins

Bristol City are already going into the 2020/21 season with a new manager, but now their attention turns to the players they may be able to add to their ranks.

Dean Holden's side has been bolstered by the addition of Joe Williams, with the midfielder joining from Wigan Athletic, but they're also on the lookout for defensive reinforcements following the summer departures of the likes of Pedro Pereira, Bailey Wright and Filip Benkovic.

Their search has reportedly led them to versatile Fulham man Steven Sessegnon, who may find himself in need of minutes following the Cottagers' promotion.

Bristol Live understands City are leading the race for the Londoner, whose twin brother Ryan moved from Fulham to Tottenham Hotspur last summer. But what kind of player would they be getting?

Sessegnon's nine starts last season all came at right-back, suggesting the England Under-21 international would occupy the right wing-back role in Holden's preferred 3-5-2 set-up.

However, he has also featured at left-back and in midfield for Fulham's under-23 side in Premier League 2, starting 18 games for the academy squad since making his debut in 2017.

He even filled in at the heart of the defence for the first team during the 2018/19 season, with football.london making reference to him being 'strong in the tackle' and praising 'his reading of the space in front of the defence and his ability to break from the back four and cut through that space'.

As a player who has learned under a variety of coaches before his 21st birthday, Sessegnon has been able to hone his game quickly and bring midfield qualities into a defensive role whether playing for club or country.

While Sessegnon only played 14 games in the league last season, we can see some indications of what he would be able to offer.

Any player needs to be comfortable on the ball to earn regular game time for Scott Parker's team, and the defender's 83% pass success rate (per WhoScored) is an indicator of that. While the figure doesn't put him at the top for Fulham - seven players posted a success rate of more than 85% across 20 or more games - it compares favourably to Bristol City last season.

Filip Benkovic was the only squad member to better Sessegnon's percentage across 10 or more City games, with Adam Nagy (82.6%) the next closest.

His 1.1 tackles per game is less than Zak Vyner (1.5) or Jack Hunt (1.1), the two men who would provide competition on the right, if that is indeed where Holden plans to use the loan target, while he also trails the pair on interceptions per game based on last season's numbers.

Even when he made a notable mistake against Nottingham Forest last season, he was defended by Parker, who claimed it was a natural consequence of the way he sets his side up to play.

"Steven has been top since the day he's walked in pre-season," the Fulham manager said at the time. "It's his third game and mistakes happen. But, like I said, it's not Steven Sessegnon's fault. It's my fault, if anything. I take full responsibility for that."

While there will always be comparisons with his twin brother, Steven is more technical and less explosive than Ryan, at least in his own estimation.

"I've done well defensively, which is something people told me to look at first because I have great belief in myself with the ball," he said in a Sky Sports interview last season.

With Parker bolstering his defensive ranks with the addition of full-back Antonee Robinson, a season in the second tier with regular football could be just what Sessegnon needs.

His Fulham contract runs until 2022, with the club holding an option to extend it by a year, and a year in the Championship shouldn't damage his long-term prospects at Craven Cottage.

If the loan move goes through, City would be getting a man with experience of the division, but someone who is young enough to provide energy as well as calmness on the ball and solid defensive attributes. At a time of uncertainty, with a manager taking charge at this level for the first time in his own career, it could be just what they need.



https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/who-steven-sessegnon-lowdown-fulham-4455924

[WhiteJC]

Club open transfer talks with Fulham player's agent – Offer presented

Milliyet journalist Serdar Saridag reports Besiktas are interested in re-signing Fulham goalkeeper Fabri.

Saridag claims Fabri wants to return to his former club after a disappointing spell at Fulham. The Spanish goalkeeper made only two appearances in his debut season with the Premier League side, before being loaned to La Liga side Mallorca during the last campaign.

It's reported the 32 year old is now keen to return to Istanbul and the Black Eagles are considering making an offer for the player.

Besiktas have reportedly opened talks with Fabri's agent over a potential move and Saridag claims they have presented an offer to the Spanish goalkeeper.

According to Saridag, Besiktas' contract offer will not match what Fabri is earning at Fulham, but the former Deportivo player is keen to play regular first-team football. The Super Lig club are in the market for an experienced keeper after Loris Karius returned to Liverpool.

Fabri's contract at Craven Cottage will expire at the end of June 2021.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-open-transfer-talks-fulham-players-agent-offer-presented/

[WhiteJC]

Bristol City, Swansea City and Reading eyeing Fulham starlet deal

According to a report from the Bristol Post, Bristol City, Swansea City and Reading are all keen on a loan deal for Fulham youngster Steven Sessegnon.

Ahead of the 2020/21 campaign, Bristol City, Swansea City and Reading are all said to be interesting in bringing in Fulham youngster Steven Sessegnon. The Cottagers starlet is wanted on loan by the Championship trio as they hope to add a new face to their defensive ranks.

Fulham are yet to make a decision on the immediate future of Sessegnon. The Premier League new boys could allow Sessegnon to head out on a temporary basis to allow him to pick up more experience of senior football.

The Robins are said to be hopeful of securing a loan deal for the young right-back ahead of their Championship rivals, so it will be interesting to see how his situation pans out over the course of the summer transfer window.

Sessegnon, 20, has emerged into the senior picture at Craven Cottage after making his way through their academy. The defender has played 19 times across all competitions for Fulham's senior side. Sessegnon can play in centre-back as well as at right-back, also featuring at left-back as well.



https://the72.co.uk/188552/bristol-city-swansea-city-and-reading-eyeing-fulham-starlet-deal/

[WhiteJC]

Exclusive: Watford open talks to sign Fulham player signed for £20m in 2018

Watford have opened talks with Fulham to sign centre-back Alfie Mawson this summer, Football Insider understands.

The 26-year-old, who cost the Cottagers £20million back in 2018, was a mainstay during the first half of last season but underwent surgery on a knee injury in January and failed to feature again.

A source at Vicarage Road has told Football Insider that the Hornets have identified Mawson as the experienced head they need following their relegation to the Championship and are in discussions with Fulham over a deal.

Mawson joined Fulham from Swansea City back in 2018 after the two clubs swapped places between the Premier League and the Championship.

However, he suffered an injury-plagued first season at Craven Cottage and played just 16 times across all competitions as the London outfit were relegated back into the second tier.

Having recovered from his setback, Mawson started Fulham's opening 25 league games last season but was forced to go back under the knife shortly after the turn of the year.

He did return to the matchday squad in July but was left as an unused substitute for seven games as Scott Parker led the club to play-off success.

Now Watford, who have swapped places with the Cottagers ahead of next season, are in the market for an experienced Championship defender and view Mawson, with his 31 second-tier and 80 Premier League appearances, as an ideal signing.

The Hornets have already brought in Jeremy Ngakia on a free transfer after his departure from West Ham earlier this summer.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/exclusive-watford-open-talks-to-sign-fulham-player-signed-for-20m-in-2018/

[WhiteJC]

Watford make Mawson move

Watford are in talks with Fulham about a proposed move for central defender Alfie Mawson, according to reports this afternoon.

The Hornets have apparently identified the former Swansea centre back as the type of experienced defender who could help them make an immediate return to the top flight after relegation last term. The 26 year-old had previously been linked with a possible move to QPR as part of a proposed deal that may have seen Ebere Eze head to Fulham and there are suggestions that his injury-ravaged spell at Craven Cottage could be coming to an end as Scott Parker plots his first Premier League campaign.

Mawson, who made Gareth Southgate's England squad on the strength of his performances for Swansea, has struggled to establish himself after making a big-money move to Fulham in the summer of 2018. He arrived in west London recovering from knee injury and picked up another serious knee problem during the Whites' horrendous and ultimately doomed battle against the drop – making just sixteen appearances as Fulham went straight back down. He started the first 25 league games under Parker but, after requiring more knee surgery in January, was a peripheral figure as Fulham, boosted by the introduction of Michael Hector, secured promotion via the play-offs.

Parker has already targeted strengthening his defensive options ahead of the new campaign – and the departure of Mawson would only save to hasten such efforts. Whether the former Barnsley defender would entertain a move to Watford and if the Hornets would match Fulham's valuation of a player they reportedly paid £20m two years ago remains to be seen.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/08/watford-make-mawson-move/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=watford-make-mawson-move

[WhiteJC]

Emile Smith Rowe: Arsenal starlet attracting interest from Monaco, Crystal Palace and Fulham

England U20 international impressed on loan at Huddersfield last season

Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe is subject to interest from Monaco, Crystal Palace and Fulham.

The Independent understands that the 20-year-old academy graduate, who spent last season on loan at Huddersfield, has become a target for several clubs but any decision on his future will not be made until a later date in the window.

Arteta has reintegrated Smith Rowe into his first-team squad for pre-season after an impressive stint in his favoured No 10 role under Danny Cowley. However, further incomings at Arsenal are likely to dictate whether he spends another year away.

It's unclear yet whether Arsenal could be tempted to consider a permanent move, with Arteta himself saying he was "excited to work with" Smith Rowe. Yet, the club are keen to raise funds for further incomings, with Ainsley Maitland-Niles edging towards a move to Wolves for a fee set to be in the region of £20m.

The England U20 international made a stunning breakthrough into Arsenal's first team in 2018, scoring three goals in six appearances under Unai Emery, but was limited to just three Bundesliga appearances on loan at RB Leipzig due to a groin injury.

Leipzig's former sporting director, Paul Mitchell, was keen to sign Smith Rowe again in the summer of 2019, but Smith Rowe ultimately spent the first half of the season at Arsenal before joining the Terriers. Mitchell, now sporting director at Monaco, has retained his interest and is keen to bring Smith Rowe to Ligue 1 permanently.

Palace's priority is QPR playmaker Eberechi Eze, with the Eagles expected to make a new offer for the 22-year-old after having a £12m bid rejected weeks ago.

Fulham have also been linked with Eze, but will look to complete the £8m signing of Harrison Reed from Southampton first.



https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/emile-smith-rowe-arsenal-transfer-news-monaco-crystal-palace-fulham-a9687641.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham mulling Smith Rowe move

Fulham are among a number of Premier League clubs considering a move for Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, according to the Independent.

It is far from certain that the Gunners will allow the talented 20 year-old to leave the Emirates, with Mikel Arteta previously intimating he was excited to work with the England under-20 international. Smith Rowe shone on loan at Huddersfield in the second half of last season, being afforded the chance to play in his preferred number ten role, after an injury-plagued loan spell at RB Leipzig was cut short earlier in the year.

Smith Rowe, who scored in Huddersfield's defeat at Craven Cottage in February almost inspiring an improbable comeback from 3-0 down, has attracted interest from Monaco – whose sporting director Paul Mitchell was integral in taking the youngster to Germany – as well as Crystal Palace and Fulham. But the Independent also suggests that completing the capture of Harrison Reed, who spent last season on loan at Craven Cottage from Southampton, remains Fulham's first priority.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/08/fulham-mulling-smith-rowe-move/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=fulham-mulling-smith-rowe-move

[WhiteJC]

New Contract For Jasper

We are delighted to confirm that Sylvester Jasper has signed a new contract, keeping him at the Club until the summer of 2023.

It caps a fantastic year for the 18-year-old, who made his senior debut against Manchester City in January, and appeared twice in the league post-lockdown, against Brentford and Birmingham City.

The winger set the Under-18 Premier League South alight this season, scoring nine times and assisting a further 10 goals in 18 appearances as Steve Wigley's side won the title.

The Under-23s called on his services, too, throughout 2019/20, with Jasper assisting twice in five PL2 appearances, while also featuring in the EFL Trophy.

After agreeing his new deal, Jasper said: "I'm delighted to have signed a new contract with this great Club, especially after a great season for myself personally.

"And the Club winning promotion to the Premier League makes it even more special. My main focus now is to work hard and help the team any way I can to have a good season in the Prem."



http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/25/sylvester-jasper-new-contract

[WhiteJC]

Huddersfield Town player offered to club via agents – Fulham also interested

Fotospor claim agents have offered Huddersfield Town defender Terence Kongolo to Fenerbahce, but they are likely to face competition from Fulham.

Fener are in the market for defenders in this transfer window and the Turkish side have been linked with the likes of Malang Sarr, Bastos and Mauricio Lemos in recent weeks.

It's claimed Kongolo could be given an opportunity to head to the Turkish Super Lig this summer after agents held talks with Fener board member Selahattin Baki.

The 26 year old was loaned to Fulham in the winter transfer window, but he suffered a serious injury in February. However, it's reported Kongolo is now fully fit and ready to play again.

According to Fotospor, along with Fenerbahce and Fulham, Dutch side AZ Alkmaar are also keen on the player.

The former AS Monaco defender made 12 appearances in the Championship last season, and his contract with the Terriers will expire at the end of June 2022.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/huddersfield-town-player-offered-club-via-agents-fulham-also-interested/

[WhiteJC]

Brighton U23 2-0 Fulham U23

Fulham Under-23s suffered a 2-0 defeat against a tough Brighton and Hove Albion side in their second pre-season friendly.

Jay Stansfield tested the Brighton goalkeeper early on, with his stinging right-footed shot forcing a save.

The young Whites started the game well but fell behind on 12 minutes. The Brighton number 11 made a strong run down the left-hand side before cutting in and curling a shot into the far corner. Taye Ashby-Hammond was left with no chance.

The hosts doubled their lead 25 minutes in when a powerful cross was steered in at the back-post.

Ashby-Hammond made a flying save just minutes later to push the ball wide and keep the score at 2-0.

Jayden Harris came close to bringing the game back to life in the 60th minute from a corner. Sonny Hilton fizzed a low cross towards Ben Davis, who set up Harris for the long shot. His effort whizzed just wide of the right post.

Davis was involved again just a few minutes later as the side tried to push for a way back into the game. After picking up the ball, he managed to evade multiple tackles and fire a powerful strike towards goal, which the 'keeper was equal to.

Despite the players' best efforts, the score remained 2-0 as the final whistle blew.


Starting Lineup:

T Ashby-Hammond, Z Larkeche, J Aina, C McAvoy, E Ameyaw, R De Havilland, B Davis, J Harris, S Hilton, JP Tiehi, J Stansfield

Subs:

D Las, L Murphy, L Duru, A Pajaziti, M Taylor-Crossdale




http://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2020/august/25/v-brighton-match-report

[WhiteJC]

Watford in talks with Fulham over defender capture

Watford are in talks with Fulham over the signing of defender Alfie Mawson according to Football Insider.

The centre-back arrived at Craven Cottage from Swansea back in 2018 in a deal worth around £20million and was a regular in the side in the first half of last season.

However, he underwent surgery on a knee injury in January and failed to feature for Scott Parker's side for the rest of the campaign.

Mawson has endured some frustrating injuries during his time with Fulham but does come with a wealth of experience at Championship level and could be the ideal signing for Watford following their slump into the second tier.

As well as an injury in the last campaign he suffered an injury-plagued first season at Craven Cottage and played just 16 times across all competitions as the London outfit were relegated back to the Championship.

The defender has 31 Championship and 80 Premier League appearances and would boost the quality of the Hornets squad as they look to push for promotion straight back to the top-flight.

Mawson did feature in the matchday squad for Fulham during their promotion run-in but didn't make it onto the pitch as they made it all the way to the play-off finals where they beat London rivals Brentford 2-1 after extra time.

Fulham are likely to take a hit in terms of transfer fee with Watford almost certain not to sign him for anywhere near in the region of the £20million that the Cottagers initially paid for him.

The Hornets have already brought in Jeremy Ngakia on a free transfer after his departure from West Ham earlier this summer.



https://the72.co.uk/188583/watford-in-talks-with-fulham-over-defender-capture/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham want Bees star Watkins and Bournemouth striker Wilson

Fulham have made an approach for Brentford striker Ollie Watkins and are also interested in Bournemouth's Callum Wilson.

Watkins, 24, scored 26 goals for the Bees last season.

The campaign ended in bitter disappointment for them when two defeats at the end of the regular season cost them promotion and they were then beaten in the Championship play-off final by Fulham.

The Whites are looking to spend following their return to the top flight and are in talks about a potential deal to sign Watkins, who is also wanted by Crystal Palace, Aston Villa and West Brom.

England international striker Wilson, 28, has been tipped to move on following Bournemouth's relegation from the Premier League.

Fulham are also interested in Ebere Eze but Crystal Palace currently look most likely to sign the QPR forward.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/fulham/fulham-brentford-ollie-watkins-bournemouth-callum-wilson-268200

[WhiteJC]

Jasper signs new three-year Fulham deal

Teenage winger Sylvester Jasper has signed a new three-year contract with Fulham.

The deal is fitting recognition for the 18 year-old's emergence as one of the brightest prospects at Motspur Park. Jasper starred as Fulham's under 18 side stormed to the league title, scoring nine times in eighteen appearances for Steve Wigley's side, and played league five games for the under-23s as well.

Jasper's meteoric rise was capped by a professional debut for Fulham as a substitute in their FA Cup defeat at Manchester City in January. The youngster also made substitute appearances for the Whites in their Championship games against Brentford and Birmingham at Craven Cottage having impressed Scott Parker with his determination, pace and dribbling ability.

The young starlet told Fulham's official website:

"I'm delighted to have signed a new contract with this great club, especially after a great season for myself personally. And the club winning promotion to the Premier League makes it even more special. My main focus now is to work hard and help the team any way I can to have a good season in the Prem."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2020/08/jasper-signs-new-three-year-fulham-deal/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jasper-signs-new-three-year-fulham-deal

[WhiteJC]

Fulham enter talks to sign 26-goal EFL attacker that Aston Villa want as well

Fulham have entered talks to sign Brentford forward Ollie Watkins, according to Sky Sports' Transfer Centre (25/08, 16:50).

Watkins is a player in serious demand following a stellar campaign for Brentford in 2019/20, with the Bees failing to win promotion to the Premier League after losing to Fulham in the play-off final.

The 24-year-old scored 26 goals across all competitions to spearhead the Bees' promotion charge, and is said to be attracting interest from the likes of Aston Villa, West Brom and Crystal Palace.

Now, Watkins has emerged as a surprise target for Fulham, who are reportedly in talks to sign the forward valued at a price of around £25m by Brentford.

Fulham's Aleksandar Mitrovic led the Championship's goalscoring charts alongside Watkins in 2019/20, with the Cottagers emerging as 2-0 victors against their West London rivals at Wembley last month.

The Verdict

This is certainly a very interesting piece of transfer news and one that will excite Fulham fans.

Watkins and Mitrovic were the two standout attackers in the Championship last season, scoring over 50 goals between them in the Championship which is some going.

The thought of the pair linking up together at Craven Cottage in the Premier League is a tantalising one, and it would be money well spent when you consider Watkins' potential, age and quality up top.

£25m is also a lot of money to Brentford to reinvest in a replacement for Watkins, however it would hurt even more to see him join their local rivals given how last season panned out.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-enter-talks-to-sign-26-goal-efl-attacker-that-aston-villa-want-as-well/