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Thursday fulham Stuff - 29/07/21...

Started by WhiteJC, July 29, 2021, 12:01:45 AM

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WhiteJC

Watford and Brighton join Fulham in race to sign in-demand EFL midfielder

Watford and Brighton and Hove Albion have entered the race to sign Swansea City midfielder Matt Grimes, according to Football Insider.

Grimes has been with the Swans since 2015, and has gone on to make 157 appearances in total for the club, which includes 51 in the 2020/21 season.

The midfielder captained the Swans in last year's campaign, which ended in a frustrating manner, as they missed out on promotion into the Premier League, after a defeat to Brentford in the Championship play-off final.

Grimes has been attracting interest from Fulham in recent weeks, with the Daily Mail having reported that a move to Craven Cottage was close to be agreed this summer.

But Watford and Brighton and Hove Albion have joined Marco Silva's side in the race to strike an agreement with the Swans for Grimes in the near future.

Watford will be planning for life back in the Premier League, and have evidently been impressed with what they've seen from Grimes in recent seasons.

Whilst Brighton are well-established in the top-flight now, and are keen to add depth to their midfield options ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.

Football Insider claim that Grimes could be available for a fee of just £1.5million, due to the midfielder only having one year remaining on his current deal with Swansea.

The Verdict:

It's not surprising to see Premier League interest in Grimes' services.

The midfielder caught the eye with a number of impressive showings for Swansea City last term, and it was a shame that they couldn't cap off a memorable season with promotion into the Premier League.

But with Steve Cooper departing the Swans over the summer, it's likely that we'll see further departures at the Liberty Stadium before the new league campaign gets underway.

Grimes evidently isn't short of options ahead of the new season, and it'll be interesting to see which club lands his signature on a permanent basis.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/watford-and-brighton-join-fulham-in-race-to-sign-in-demand-efl-midfielder/

WhiteJC

31-year-old facing uncertain Fulham future as club plot move to prize him away from Craven Cottage

French side Dijon are interested in making a potential move to sign Fulham defender Maxime Le Marchand this summer, according to French outlet Le Bien Public, via Get French Football News.

Le Marchand is a player that has been facing an uncertain future at Craven Cottage this summer with the 31-year-old having been deemed surplus to requirements last season by Scott Parker.

The defender as a result was allowed to make a loan move to Belgian side Royal Antwerp where he managed to 13 league appearances and scored three goals in the process.

Earlier on in the summer, Le Marchand had suggested that there is a chance that he could still remain with Fulham in the Championship next season despite having been loaned out last term.

However, it would be a surprise if the 31-year-old was able to force his way back into the first-team fold at Craven Cottage next season, even if Parker has left over the summer and been replaced by Marco Silva.

French outlet Le Bien Public, via Get French Football News, report that Dijon are interested in bringing in the 31-year-old this summer and that they have even already made an attempt to sort out a deal for his services.

The verdict

Getting Le Marchand off their wage bill should be seen as somewhat of a no-brainer for Fulham at this stage with the 31-year-old having never really managed to fully convince during his time at Craven Cottage.

The defender was able to play a part for them in their promotion from the Championship in 2019/20, but even then he only made 14 league appearances.

Silva might consider Le Marchand to be more of an option for his side than Parker did, but even so there are better players available in his position that the Portuguese can call upon first next season.

Therefore, it would make a lot of sense for Fulham to recoup some money for him if possible and to also free up some wages that could be left to make other signings.

Dijon might be an ideal move for the defender as it would enable him to return to his homeland and try and get his career back on track in a new permanent home. It could be a case of this deal being ideal for all concerned really and it is one that Fulham should not be standing in the way of.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/31-year-old-facing-uncertain-fulham-future-as-club-plot-move-to-prize-him-away-from-craven-cottage/

WhiteJC

Worn With Pride: 2021/22 Kits Revealed


Fulham's more than the players on the pitch. Fulham is a family.

A family that takes in every fan that follows us, every player, all our teams and everyone who works here.

A family that makes our Club what it is; London's Original, steeped in history and set for the future.

And it's an impressive, committed, and diverse family. Some have been part of it for years, some just a while.

Some cheer and sing as loud as they can, some quietly play a supporting role. And here we are, all coming back together again.

They all make our Club special and proud to pull on the shirt.

FOR ALL THE FULHAM FAMILY
WORN WITH PRIDE

Modelled by staff and participants across the Club and Fulham FC Foundation, we are delighted to unveil Fulham's Home & Away Kits for the 2021/22 season.


In a traditional look, this season's white home shirt sees the addition of black pinstripes and will be accompanied by black shorts and white socks. Produced by adidas, the iconic three stripes sit on the shoulders either side of a striking black collar.

Fulham's away strip for 21/22 returns to black, featuring a camo-style detailed pattern, and is completed by white shorts and black socks. Both kits have been created with sustainability in mind, and this season's away jersey is from adidas' Primeblue collection – a high-performance yarn made with 50% parley ocean plastic, using upcycled plastic waste intercepted on shorelines and coastal areas.

In a nod to our rich history, both shirts feature a unique '1879' detail on the reverse of the neck, and World Mobile branding – the Club's new official principal partner – is displayed on the front of the men's, women's and academy team jerseys. For the first time since 2016/17 season, the front of shirt logo will be available in retail on all adult and junior shirts.

In addition, official principal partner Spreadex Trading will also feature on the reverse of the men's team shirt, with application of this logo optional for fans to apply at the point of purchase.

Both 21/22 Home and Away Kits will be available to buy online at shop.fulhamfc.com and the Stadium from 9am on Friday 30th July.

The new Home kit will be worn on pitch for the first time by Marco Silva's side in Saturday's pre-season friendly against Charlton Athletic at Craven Cottage.




https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2021/july/Worn-With-Pride-2021-22-Kits-Revealed/


WhiteJC

Fulham player being watched by League One side

Fulham right-back Marlon Fossey has joined Rotherham United for a trial period, as reported by Paul Davis of the Rotherham Advertiser.

Davis' tweet states that the full-back will feature in Friday night's friendly against Middlesbrough, but the length of the trial is yet to be disclosed.

Born in Los Angeles, Fossey joined the Fulham academy set up as an 11-year-old, after being spotted at a tournament in Jersey.

The 22-year-old progressed through the Fulham academy and last year he embarked on his first spell in professional football. Fossey headed temporarily to Shrewsbury, playing seven times for the League One club.

The young defender returned to Craven Cottage later that month but is yet to feature at first-team level for the recently relegated Championship club.

Fossey holds dual American and British citizenships and has represented the United States at U20 level.

The 22-year-old primarily operates as a right-back but has been trusted as a right-winger during the early stages of his career thus far.

The verdict

It is becoming a difficult task to compete financially with some of the top clubs in League One at present, meaning loan deals for highly-rated youthful players are increasing in importance.

Fossey got a taste of first-team football in League One last season and another third-tier move could be on the horizon.

However this time, he would be moving to a team that will have genuine ambitions to challenge at the top end of the division.

Should he leave for Rotherham and enjoy a productive spell, then he will certainly arrive back at Craven Cottage with the ability and experience to challenge for regular minutes in West London next year.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-player-being-watched-by-league-one-side/

WhiteJC

Tom Trybull to Fulham: Is it a good potential move? Would he start? What does he offer?

Fulham will be looking to add to their squad as much as they can between now and the end of the transfer window as they embark on life back in the Sky Bet Championship.

The Cottagers will be tipped for promotion by many but they know that things are not that straightforward in the second tier and the hard work is only about to begin.

One man that might be set to help them, meanwhile, is Tom Trybull with The Telegraph linking the Cottagers with a move for the midfielder.

Here, we break down the move...

Is it a good potential move?

It could well be.

Trybull is a decent player in the middle of the park and at Championship level has plenty of quality to offer.

He is hard-working, defensively intelligent and breaks up the game well, meaning he could add some extra steel to the Fulham midfield.

Would he start?

This could all depend on what Fulham have in terms of midfield options come the start of the season.

Several of their players including Tom Cairney, Harrison Reed and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa have all been linked away this summer, whilst Stefan Johansen has left and Kevin McDonald has also moved on.

Trybull, as things stand, would still have to fight hard for a starting spot but if a few more players move on he's almost a shoo-in to feature.

What does he offer?

He's an effective screen in front of the defence in the deep-lying midfield role that he likes to play in.

Last season he averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.7 interceptions and 1.2 clearances a game from the middle of the park, highlighting how well he reads the game and snuffs out danger.

He's an intelligent footballer when it comes to that side of things and if Fulham need an extra player to do the dirty work next year, he could well do it.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/tom-trybull-to-fulham-is-it-a-good-potential-move-would-he-start-what-does-he-offer/

WhiteJC

Bordeaux rival Man City for Fulham fullback Antonee Robinson

Bordeaux are making a move for Fulham fullback Antonee Robinson.

The USA international is set to leave Fulham this summer and has been linked with a surprise move to Manchester City. It's been reported City are exploring a £10m push for Robinson.

However, RMC via Foot Mercato says French giants Bordeaux are also interested in Robinson.

The defender has welcomed Bordeaux's interest, knowing a move to Ligue Une will strengthen his World Cup chances next year. Bordeaux are attempting to convince the Cottagers to accept a loan arrangement.

Robinson, when with Wigan Athletic, famously saw a move to AC Milan fall through due to failed a medical in the 2020 January transfer window.

In the Premier League last season with the Cottagers, Robinson made 32 appearances. The 23 year-old left-back also has 12 caps with the USA.



https://www.tribalfootball.com/articles/bordeaux-rival-man-city-for-fulham-fullback-antonee-robinson-4379693


WhiteJC

DONE DEAL | Timmy Abraham joins Exiles on season-long loan deal

Newport County AFC is delighted to announce the signing of Timmy Abraham on a loan deal from Fulham, subject to EFL and international clearance.

The young forward becomes County's ninth signing of the summer transfer window after putting pen-to-paper on a contract that will see him remain at Rodney Parade until the summer of 2022.

Abraham, who is the younger brother of Chelsea and England forward Tammy, spent the last campaign on loan at Sky Bet League One side Plymouth Argyle and Scottish Championship outfit Raith Rovers, where he racked up 12 appearances in all competitions.

The 20-year-old began his career with Charlton Athletic before joining Fulham in 2017 and has since made five appearances and netted two goals in the EFL Trophy for the Whites' academy. Abraham made his professional debut during a loan spell at Bristol Rovers in February last year.

After finalising the loan deal, Abraham said: "I'm raring to go and I just want to show the fans what I'm capable of doing on the pitch.

"I like the ambition of the club and how they always want to push forward, and the style of play suits me as well so that's something I can hopefully take advantage of and score some goals."

Manager Michael Flynn added: "Timmy is still a young player with a bright future ahead of him, so I'm pleased that we've been able to get him on board for the new season.

"He's already had some experience playing in League One and enjoyed a few loan spells away from Fulham, so hopefully he can play a part in helping us get to the next level.

"I want to thank Fulham for their help in the loan and for trusting us to play a part in Timmy's development."

For player sponsorship opportunities for the 2021-22 campaign, please contact [email protected].



https://www.newport-county.co.uk/news/2021/july2/timmy-abraham-joins-on-loan/

WhiteJC

Report: Fulham make improved bid for Muniz

Fulham are reportedly set to make an improved bid for Brazilian forward Rodrigo Muniz.

What's the story?

According to O Dia, the Cottagers will make a new offer at the request of manager Marco Silva.

Fulham previously attempted to sign the player on loan with the option of a permanent deal in a package worth €10m (£8.5m). It was an appealing offer for the ace, however, Flamengo turned it down.

The club are stepping up their intent to sign the 20-year-old, offering a deal where the buying clause will be triggered by performance goals. It is a package worth a reported €9m (£7.7m), €1m for the loan move and a further €8m to make the switch permanent.

Muniz could be Fulham's new centre-forward

Fulham could need a new centre-forward with the future of Alexsander Mitrovic less than certain. He was the subject of a failed £16m bid from Dynamo Moscow last month.

Meanwhile, Aboubakar Kamara's time at Craven Cottage is also unknown after his loan spell last season. The Frenchman could well be on his way out this window.

It would leave the team without a recognised striker ahead of the new Championship campaign.

But in Muniz, Fulham can sign a viable replacement for the Brazilian youngster amid talk of an improved bid. The ace has scored three times and assisted once in nine league games.

These remaining weeks of the window prove crucial for Silva. Signing a striker to take them back to the top flight is paramount and the 'improved German Cano' could be just the man.



https://tbrfootball.com/report-fulham-make-improved-bid-for-muniz/

WhiteJC

Abraham joins Newport on loan

Fulham forward Timmy Abraham has joined Newport County on a season-long loan, the League Two club have confirmed this morning.

The 20 year-old, brother of Chelsea striker Tammy, was on trial with Cheltenham Town during pre-season but Michael Duff decided against going ahead with a loan deal despite Abraham scoring twice against Kidderminister Harriers in a pre-season friendly. Fulham are keen for the forward to gain further first-team experience after largely unsuccessful loan spells with Plymouth Argyle, Bristol Rovers and Raith Rovers in the past year.

Abraham told the Newport County website: "I'm raring to go and I just want to show the fans what I'm capable of doing on the pitch. I like the ambition of the club and how they always want to push forward, and the style of play suits me as well so that's something I can hopefully take advantage of and score some goals."

Manager Michael Flynn said: "Timmy is still a young player with a bright future ahead of him, so I'm pleased that we've been able to get him on board for the new season. He's already had some experience playing in League One and enjoyed a few loan spells away from Fulham, so hopefully he can play a part in helping us get to the next level. I want to thank Fulham for their help in the loan and for trusting us to play a part in Timmy's development."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/abraham-joins-newport-on-loan/


WhiteJC

Spreadex named official partner of Fulham FC

Sports betting firm Spreadex has today been announced as a Principal Partner of Fulham Football Club for the next two seasons.

The Spreadex Trading logo will become a regular feature at Craven Cottage, including on the back of all kits worn by the First Team players.This season's kits will be revealed later this week ahead of Saturday's pre-season friendly against Charlton, while Spreadex will work closely with Fulham on a range of community and charity initiatives for the duration of the partnership.

The partnership also includes rights such as LED perimeter board advertising and player and Head Coach access, as well as a presence across Fulham's social media channels, website and CRM. Spreadex is the only company in the world to offer customers access to financial trading, as well as sportsbook betting and sports spread betting.

The firm which now employs more than 150 staff at its St Albans headquarters – has been operating since 1999 and is regulated by both the Gambling Commission and Financial Conduct Authority due to its unique product offering.

Spreadex CFO James Hallan said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Fulham Football Club for the next two seasons and feel privileged to now become a part of the Fulham family. "This is a great club with a long history and tremendous reputation, and the deal signifies Spreadex's continued growth plans as a company.

"We look forward to working closely with our new partners and will be supporting Fulham both on and off the pitch as the team aims to return to the Premier League." The firm will also be running several fan engagement activities across its digital channels, including competitions for signed shirts, alongside other exciting promotions.

Fulham FC Sales Director Jon Don-Carolis added: "We are all delighted to welcome Spreadex Trading on board as a Principal Partner for the forthcoming campaign and look forward to working with the team to develop and strengthen our association during the term of the partnership."



https://5star.media/2021/07/28/spreadex-named-official-partner-of-fulham-fc/

WhiteJC

5 goals, 3 assists: The maestro who has Fulham, Watford and Brighton and Hove Albion on his tail

Swansea City midfielder Matt Grimes is certainly a man who has seen his name become one of the main focal points of the transfer gossip columns this summer.

The 26-year-old enjoyed another solid campaign at the Liberty Stadium as the Swans eventually lost out in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final and is now being strongly linked with a move elsewhere.

As previously reported by the Daily Mail earlier this week, Fulham are said to be closing in on a deal to sign the midfield schemer, however in more recent times, Football Insider have stated that both Brighton and Hove Albion and Watford have entered the race for the former Exeter City man, thus leaving the player with a choice to make.

With this in mind, we have run the rule over the midfielder's performance in the 2020/21 campaign as we examine exactly why this trio of clubs are so keen on signing the 26-year-old this summer in our latest FLW Spotlight piece:


Grimes is a player who usually operates as more of a deeper lying playmaker, however he has shown that he can make an impact offensively by striding forwards to join the attack, as his five goals last term shows.

This is a fact that is backed up by his average of one shot per game, with the midfielder liking to take on efforts on from distance whilst also being a reliable threat from direct set pieces.

On top of his goal scoring contribution, Grimes also laid on three assists for his teammates, which is thanks in no small part to his desire to create when he gets on the ball in the final third.

Indeed the 26-year-old also maintained an average passing accuracy of 77.8%, which underlines his ability to dictate the play from deep whilst also keeping the tempo high, which is sure to be something that will be attractive to the likes of Fulham, Brighton and Watford moving forwards as they look to firm up their interest in the player.

Grimes is also something of an all rounder, with his defensive contributions also proving to be vital as Swansea chased a spot in the Premier League, with an average of 1.4 ball interceptions per game showing the strength of holding a good position in front of the defence instead of flying into reckless tackles.

Make no mistake about it, Grimes is ready to step up to the Premier League this season and certainly wouldn't look out of place at any of the aforementioned clubs as he enters the prime years of his career at the peak of his powers.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/5-goals-3-assists-the-maestro-who-has-fulham-watford-and-brighton-and-hove-albion-on-his-tail/

WhiteJC

Timmy Abraham: Fulham forward joins Newport County on loan


Timmy Abraham played against Newport County for Plymouth Argyle in the EFL Trophy last November

Fulham forward Timmy Abraham says he is "raring to go" after signing a season-long loan deal with League Two Newport County.

The 20-year-old is the younger brother of Chelsea and England forward Tammy.

He spent the last campaign on loan at League One side Plymouth Argyle and Raith Rovers in the Scottish Championship.

"I just want to show the fans what I'm capable of doing on the pitch," he said.

"I like the ambition of the club and how they always want to push forward, and the style of play suits me as well so that's something I can hopefully take advantage of and score some goals."

Manager Michael Flynn added: "Timmy is still a young player with a bright future ahead of him, so I'm pleased that we've been able to get him on board for the new season.

"He's already had some experience playing in League One and enjoyed a few loan spells away from Fulham, so hopefully he can play a part in helping us get to the next level."



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/57994657


WhiteJC

Opinion: Fulham must act swiftly in race to sign 25-y/o after fresh development

Fulham's efforts to sign Swansea City midfielder Matt Grimes could be set for a frustrating transfer blow, with Watford and Brighton and Hove Albion entering the race to land his signature.

It had previously been reported by the Daily Mail that Marco Silva's side were closing in on an agreement to sign Grimes, who is keen to depart the club after Steve Cooper left his role in charge of Swansea earlier this month.

Grimes has a considerable amount of experience under his belt, having made 157 appearances for the Swans, since signing for the club back in 2015.

51 of those appearances came in the 2020/21 season, as Swansea narrowly missed out on promotion into the Premier League, after a defeat to Brentford in the Championship play-off final at Wembley.

Fulham would have previously been confident of securing a deal to sign Grimes this summer, as they'll have their own ambitions of challenging for promotion straight back into the Premier League at the first time of asking, following their relegation from the top-flight last term.

But with both Watford and Brighton and Hove Albion recently registering their interest in signing the midfielder, Fulham might struggle to get a deal over the line to sign the 26-year-old.

The prospect of playing Premier League football could be too good of an opportunity to turn down for any player, but with Grimes at the age of 26 he'll be looking to play at the highest possible level, whilst he's at the peak of his career.

He was a key member of the Swansea team last term, and you would imagine that he will be eager to play in the Premier League if the opportunity arises. With an average Whoscored rating of 6.96, it certainly makes for good reading for Grimes in last year's campaign with the Swans.

If Watford or Brighton and Hove Albion can offer him regular minutes, then it wouldn't come as a surprise to see it potentially be a no-brainer for Grimes to pursue a move to either team before the summer transfer window reaches a conclusion.

Fulham will have ambitions of winning promotion into the Premier League this season though, and with Marco Silva in charge, as well as having a number of key players remaining at Craven Cottage so far over the summer, which is a positive ahead of their season opener against Middlesbrough on Sunday 8th August.

It's vital that the Cottagers act swiftly in their efforts to sign Grimes after this recent development, as it would be a real statement of intent if they were to beat both Brighton and Hove Albion and Watford in the race to land his signature



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/opinion-fulham-must-act-swiftly-in-race-to-sign-25-y-o-after-fresh-development/

WhiteJC

Fulham consider Anthony Knockaert sale

Fulham would be open to the idea of sanctioning Anthony Knockaert's departure from Craven Cottage this summer.

What's the talk?

That's according to a report by Football League World, who claim that, following the recent arrival of Harry Wilson, Marco Silva's side are now willing to listen to offers for the 29-year-old winger.

The report goes on to state that Tony Khan and the Cottagers transfer team will be contacting potential suitors for the forward over what remains of the summer transfer window, although it is thought that the former France U21 international's wages could be a stumbling block to his departure.

Stealing a living

While Knockaert is undoubtedly a player who has the capability to be a match-winner in any given fixture, the fact that Scott Parker felt it would not harm Fulham by sending the winger out on loan last season, as well the club having just landed the rather impressive signing of Wilson, would very much appear to indicate the Frenchman's time in west London could well be up.

Indeed, although his spell at Nottingham Forest last term was not particularly disastrous, the 29-year-old's performances were also far from breathtaking.

Over his 34 Championship appearances for Chris Hughton's side, the £2.7m-rated man scored just two goals, registered one assist and missed four big chances, as well as hitting the target an average of just 0.3 times per game.

However, rather bizarrely, these returns saw the man Hughton once dubbed a "fabulous" player earn a decent seasonal SofaScore match rating of 6.93, ranking him as Forest's joint sixth-best performer in the second tier of English football.

But, with Nottingham Forest having struggled at the wrong end of the Championship table last season, while Fulham will undoubtedly be hoping to secure an immediate return to the Premier League in their upcoming campaign, it would indeed appear as if Knockaert is no longer at the level Marco Silva requires.

Furthermore, with the 29-year-old reported to be taking home a whopping £35k-per-week at Craven Cottage, considering just how far the winger has slipped down the Fulham pecking order, this salary would not appear to reflect the Frenchman's current status within the club.

As such, Khan must do all he possibly can to try and secure Knockaert a move away from Fulham this summer, as, if the forward does not feature in Silva's first-team plans next season, spending £140k a month on the 29-year-old would be a significant waste of money.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-fc-transfer-rumours/fulham-transfer-news-marco-silva-tony-khan-anthony-knockaert-harry-wilson-the-championship

WhiteJC

1.9 tackles won per game: Fulham will be buoyed as transfer target nears exit

Will Hughes' situation at Watford could be making for fascinating viewing for Fulham at the moment with the midfielder currently looking on course to leave the Hornets.

The Lilywhites have been among those linked with a move for the midfielder, despite the two sides swapping divisions at the end of last season, and Hughes' current contract stand-off with the men from Vicarage Road will naturally pique the interest of the Cottagers as they monitor things.

That said, we're taking a look at some of Hughes' stats from last season in the Sky Bet Championship after he helped the Hornets win promotion:


Hughes was an important part of the Watford side with his lung-busting approach in midfield naturally endearing him to fans even more than he was already.

Indeed, it's clear he's well-suited to the hustle and bustle of Championship football and if he did end up moving down to the second tier upon leaving Watford, Fulham would be wise to try and get him.

They have good midfield options at Craven Cottage but there is speculation swirling over a number of them, following on from their relegation.

The likes of Tom Cairney, Harrison Reed and Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa have all been linked away from the club at one point or another this summer, whilst Stefan Johansen is among those to have already moved on from the club, bringing their ranks in the middle of the park down further.

Of course, some of Fulham's midfield options will remain for this coming season but they may need to add further, and they'll be encouraged by what's happening with Hughes.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/1-9-tackles-won-per-game-fulham-will-be-buoyed-as-transfer-target-nears-exit/


WhiteJC

Matt Grimes update as reporter clarifies state of play – Brighton, Fulham, Watford now all linked

Wales Online's Tom Coleman has revealed that there is currently no bids on the table for Swansea City captain Matt Grimes.

Grimes, 26, has recently been linked with a move away from Swansea City.

The Englishman, who joined Swansea during the 2014/15 season from Exeter City, was linked with Fulham earlier this month before Football Insider reported that both Watford and Brighton had joined the race.

Football Insider also claimed that Grimes 'could be available' for as little as £1.5million this summer.

Now though, Wales Online's trusted reporter Coleman has deemed that asking price to be 'wide of the mark', whilst confirming that there aren't yet any bids on the table for Grimes:



The first of many for Swansea?

Following Steve Cooper's exit last week, and Andre Ayew's earlier in the summer, Swansea City could now be on the precipice of some major changes.

The departure of their captain Grimes would be another blow – he's been a mainstay in the side for the past three seasons now having missed just five Championship outings in that time.

His links to the likes of Fulham, Brighton and Watford are unsurprising but that £1.5million price tag certainly was.

He is in the final year of his contract now though and that makes Grimes' situation all the more difficult for Swansea to navigate – will he sign an extended deal following the exit of Cooper? Or will he seek pastures new and condemn Swansea to yet another major loss this summer?

A steady Championship skipper

Brighton, Fulham and Watford would all be signing a proven, reliable, hard-working and likeable Championship captain in Grimes.

He's one of those players who never shies away during hard times and for Swansea, although he's had patches of inconsistent form over the past three seasons, he's become a fan favourite.

The best outcome for the club now is to either tie him down to a new deal as to avoid losing him for free next summer, or to cash in this summer but for a fee much higher than that suggested £1.5million.



https://the72.co.uk/243316/matt-grimes-update-as-reporter-clarifies-state-of-play-brighton-fulham-watford-now-all-linked/

WhiteJC

Fulham wait for Flamengo decision on new Muniz offer

Fulham are awaiting a response from Flamengo after submitting a second offer for forward Rodrigo Muniz – with reports from Brazil suggesting that a decision could come as soon as later today.

UOL columnist Bruno Andrade claims that Fulham's second loan bid for the 20 year-old is at the behest of new coach Marco Silva, who is a huge admirer of the young striker. Fulham's new approach to sign Muniz is understood to be a loan with a mandatory purchase obligation – at around £8.5m – and Flamengo will discuss whether to accept it in a new round of discussions in Lisbon today.

The battle for Muniz's signature now seems to be a straight fight between Fulham and their opponents on the Championship's opening weekend, Middlesbrough. Boro sent a delegation, including chief executive Neil Bausor and first-team coach Leo Percovich, to Portugal to discuss their bid for the striker on Monday – although their offer is also understood to be a loan, with Flamengo having initially hoped to conclude a permanent transfer this summer.

Al-Nasr appear to be out of the running for Muniz as Flamengo have ended negotiations after the Saudi Arabian side had offered around £3.4 for half of the striker's economic rights. Muniz, widely considered to be one of the brightest Brazilian domestic talents, has scored five goals in 24 appearances since breaking into the Flamengo first team last year.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2021/07/fulham-wait-for-flamengo-decision-on-new-muniz-offer/

WhiteJC

Bettinelli signs for Chelsea
Goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli has today joined Chelsea Football Club.

Bettinelli arrives having been out of contract at Fulham, and he will add strength to our goalkeeping resources following the departure of Willy Caballero.

The 6ft 4in keeper spent over a decade at Craven Cottage, making 120 appearances for the Whites, and also represented the England Under-21 team earlier in his career.

On signing a two-year contract at Stamford Bridge, Bettinelli said: 'It's always been a special club. I know the area very well so it's been a dream of mine to come over to this side and it's finally happened. There were some talks a few years ago when I was a bit younger and for whatever reason that didn't come about but I'm here now.

'I'm really excited to be involved and looking forward to trying to impress and help the team as much as I can.'

Bettinelli started his career at Fulham at the age of 14 and progressed through the ranks before making his club debut at the start of the 2014/15 season following their relegation to the Championship.

Prior to that, he had spent time on loan in non-league with Dartford and in League Two at Accrington Stanley, gaining experience of senior football as a developing goalkeeper and winning the Young Player of the Year award at the Crown Ground.

Following the departure of David Stockdale in the summer of 2014, Bettinelli returned to the Cottage and established himself as Fulham's first-choice keeper, making 45 appearances in all competitions and earning international recognition with a maiden call-up to the England Under-21s squad.

Despite starting 2015/16 as the club's number one, the Londoner picked up a knee ligament injury in the third game of the campaign and was sidelined for seven months. He returned in March and was back between the posts for the final nine games of the season, though Fulham's promotion prospects continued to struggle as they finished the term 20th.

While featuring less the following season, Bettinelli did play in both legs of the play-off semi-final against Reading as the Whites fell just short but made amends 12 months later when Slavisa Jokanovic's side finally sealed a Premier League return with victory over Aston Villa. His efforts were particularly important during those season-defining games, with Fulham keeping three clean sheets in three play-off matches.

Back in the Premier League, Bettinelli made his top-flight debut in a 4-2 victory against Burnley in August 2018, the start of a run of seven straight league starts. The first international break of the season saw the goalkeeper's form rewarded with a call-up to Gareth Southgate's England squad, an achievement he repeated the following month in October, albeit without making an appearance for the Three Lions.

Yet after a promising start to the season, six games without a win meant Sergio Rico took the gloves for the remainder of the campaign. The Whites only won seven league games and received an immediate return ticket to the Championship.

A further 14 appearances followed in 2019/20 as injury disrupted his flow once again before he spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, making 42 appearances and keeping 13 clean sheets for a side that finished 10th in the second tier.



https://www.chelseafc.com/en/news/2021/07/28/bettinelli-signs-for-chelsea?cardIndex=0-0


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Fulham transfer target Matt Grimes misses Swansea City friendly as four players absent due to positive Covid-19 tests

The Forest Green Rovers v Swansea City team news in full

Matt Grimes will miss Swansea City's pre-season clash with Forest Green Rovers due to a minor injury.

The club captain featured in the 2-1 triumph over Plymouth Argyle at Home Park last week but has not been included in the matchday squad for the Swans' latest summer fixture.

It comes amid an expected exit from the Liberty Stadium.

The central midfielder has attracted interest from a number of clubs this summer, with Championship rivals Fulham being firm admirers of the 26-year-old.

Grimes has recently entered the final year of his contract with the club, and that could ensure the Swans do not receive the £5m asking price they have placed on his head.

Meanwhile, Lewis Webb, Jay Fulton, Ryan Manning and Ben Margetson are all unavailable to face Forest Green Rovers after returning positive Covid-19 tests.

Ryan Bennett captains the visitors at New Lawn in the absence of Grimes while Ben Cabango makes his first appearance for the club since returning from international duty with Wales at Euro 2020.

Academy product Ben Lloyd - aged just 16 - is listed among the substitutes.

Swansea City team to face Forest Green Rovers: Hamer; Naughton, Cabango, Bennett (C), Bidwell; Walsh, Smith, Dhanda; Lowe, Piroe, O Cooper.

Subs: Benda, Williams, Joseph, Latibeaudiere, Butler, Whittaker, McFayden, Lloyd, Cullen.



https://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/fulham-transfer-target-matt-grimes-21169537

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Crystal Palace land Joachim Andersen – who shone on loan at Fulham – on permanent deal

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Denmark international defender Joachim Andersen on a five-year deal.

The 25-year-old centre-back joins from Lyon for a fee believed to be for an initial £15million. He was part of Denmark's squad that reached the Euro 2020 semi-final this summer.

Anderson said: "I'm extremely proud to be joining Crystal Palace and to be playing in the world's best football league.

"The management of the club and Patrick Vieira have given me very strong assurance that they know my qualities, they believe in me and want me to play an important role in the team.

"I have a very positive impression of Patrick from the conversations I have had with him, and I have heard nothing but great things about the manager, the club and its plans for the future."

Palace chairman Steve Parish said: "In Joachim, we have added another highly-rated defender to our squad, and as a player with Premier League and international experience, we are extremely pleased to welcome him to Crystal Palace."

Andersen's career began in his native Denmark, but he broke into professional football with Dutch side FC Twente. Shortly after making his first-team debut, Andersen was named U19 Talent of the Year by the Danish Football Association.

The centre-back joined Serie A side Sampdoria after 50 games with Twente and played regularly under manager Marco Giampaolo. Andersen's performances earned him a move to Lyon as a record transfer in summer 2019, and he went on to feature in the 2019-20 Champions League – including as a substitute in the semi-final against Bayern Munich.

Andersen then tasted Premier League football with a season-long loan to Fulham in October 2020. He captained the Cottagers and was even nominated for Premier League Player of the Month in February 2021.

He is Palace's fourth signing of the summer transfer window.



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/crystal-palace-land-joachim-andersen-who-shone-on-loan-at-fulham-on-permanent-deal/