Friday Fulham Stuff - 10/06/22...

[WhiteJC]

Don't panic yet...

A row of turnstile entrances to the Riverside Stand at Craven Cottage, home of Fulham Football Club. The image was taken from the public pavement on which the ground stands in Fulham, London.

The incredible season has not long finished but football is a fast moving business and straight away the minds of many has turned to who will be coming through the door at Craven Cottage. We are in early June and the transfer window hasn't even officially opened yet but with the news of other clubs announcing deals and strengthening their sides has many Fulham fans wondering why the Whites are yet to make any additions to the squad; since the club decided to leave themselves short by releasing a host of squad players.

There are many rumours flying around, some from some pretty credible sources and some not so much but as we head towards the window opening it seems like Fulham have already been linked with hundreds of players! Most people believe that the clubs early promotion would bring a host of early transfers ready to hit the ground running in pre season but that hasn't happened and now Forest have won the playoff some believe that Fulham have missed their chance to steal a march on the teams that should be their direct opposition to avoid the drop next season.

Some fans may be panicking and thinking that this will be another last minute scattergun approach but there are a few things that suggest this time will be different and that us as fans should trust in Marco Silva especially to get it right in the window. Firstly some of the credible links have us linked with players over the age of 28 and some with considerable Premier League experience, this is different to the previous money ball stats driven system in which the club wouldn't sign anyone over 28 and often they were obscure targets from Europe.

Then there is the targets we are looking at like William Carvalho, Luka Milivojevic and Arthur Masuaku, all of which are players Marco Silva has worked with previously. Carvalho at Sporting Lisbon and the latter duo during a spell in Greece with Olympiakos. Silva has also used his extensive knowledge of his homeland to sound out Al Musrati who is a defensive midfielder with very good ball winning attributes and passing stats in the Portuguese top division for the last couple of seasons and the Libyan is said to be close to completing a move to Craven Cottage this summer.

The positions in which the links are focused in on would suggest that this is not the work of the previous scouting or recruitment system, Silva identified the positions he wants to strengthen early on after promotion as the Athletic reported and the vast majority of the links we are seeing are for players in roles that Fulham are desperate to strengthen early this summer.

For teams like Fulham, the transfer window is very tough especially this being our 3rd promotion in a row and the uncertainty that surrounds joining a club with the so called yo-yo tag, Players will want assurances in case of relegation and clauses in place to cover themselves while agents will hold out for a better deal for both themselves and their player. The player will more than likely wait as long as possible before committing to a newly promoted club whilst holding hope that a more established top flight side will come in. The selling club are also aware of other interest and also the fact that you are newly promoted side with money to spend (and money that needs to be spent to survive) so they drive up the price, adding to this Fulham's slightly stretched FFP situation and you start having a difficult situation managing short term and long term aspects.

Another reason things slow down early in the summer is players going on holiday, they have had a long season and all want to unwind so they jet off somewhere exotic with or without their families for two weeks in the sun and most will only deal with transfer situation when they return. Also remember that this summer everything will be slowed down even further by the current round of international games set to end on the 14th of June, while players are on international duty they will rarely be sorting out their future. Some will withdraw from their respective squads to sort a transfer out which is what two Fulham targets Thomas Strakosha and Al Musrati have apparently done.

In the case with the international break we may not see much movement until after this period later in the month but even then, don't expect things to move at a pace in the Premier League until July. Most football fans are desperate to see new signings in at their clubs as early as possible and Fulham fans are no different but in this case I don't think it's time to panic just yet, there are 13 other Premier League sides yet to make a signing and that includes the other two promoted sides. Also add context to some of the Premier League signings (of which there's been 13 in total), 3 were loans converted in permanent moves, three were done (or largely done) before the season had ended and 3 were free transfers.

Fulham are heavily linked with a few players and if reports are to be believed, we are very close to bringing a couple of new players in. I believe that was one of Marco Silva's demands when taking the Fulham job, that he was to be heavily involved in transfers and the signs show he is getting his way as he did last summer when he got Rodrigo Muniz in from Flamengo.

Silva will have his targets and the club will be working very hard I'm sure to get them in and ready to hit the ground running.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2022/06/dont-panic-yet/

[WhiteJC]

Eric Ameyaw and Jerome Opoku released by Premier League side Fulham

English Premier League returnees, Fulham FC have released Ghanaian duo, Eric Ameyaw, and Jerome Opoku ahead of their upcoming 2022/23 season campaign.

The pair are among 14 players who have been released by the London-based side following their qualification to the top flight.

Ameyaw joined Fulham in September 2020 and was given a one-year contract last year, but he had a disappointing 2021-22 season, prompting the decision to release him.

Opoku has been at Fulham since 2017 but has yet to break into the first team. His development has been slowed, and the club believes it is best to release him.

He spent last season on loan at Danish club Vejle BK.

Opoku was born in England, while Ameyaw was born in the United States. Both are eligible to represent Ghana at any level.

Fulham are expected to strengthen its squad before the start of the new campaign.



https://footballghana.com/eric-ameyaw-and-jerome-opoku-released-by-premier-league-side-fulham

[WhiteJC]

Fulham weighing up €12m swoop for 27 y/o

Promoted outfit Fulham are preparing to make a move for Celta Vigo left-back Javi Galan if they fail to secure a move for Alex Moreno this summer, according to Spanish outlet El Desmarque (via Sport Witness).

29-year-old Moreno, who currently plies his trade with Real Betis, is currently a top target for the Cottagers who are willing to spend €15m to lure him to the English capital according to the same report.

He is thought to have been discussed in detail in a recent board meeting at Craven Cottage – and officials at the club concluded that a £12m fee should be enough to secure his services as they look to seal an early-summer move.

Galan, 27, is another option though and was also reportedly discussed in this meeting with a bid in the region of €10m-€12m being discussed as a potential possibility if they fail to get a deal for Moreno over the line.

Recording 39 appearances in all competitions last term, with 37 of those displays coming in the Spanish top tier, the Celta Vigo full-back has been one of the first names on the teamsheet at the Abanca-Balaidos.

And he could potentially arrive at Craven Cottage as a first-choice option above the likes of Antonee Robinson and Joe Bryan in the pecking order, though he isn't a prime target for Marco Silva's side at this stage.

The Verdict:

Some would argue that this position should be far down their list of transfer priorities considering they already have two first-teamers available, but whether Silva believes Robinson could be a good first-choice option in the top flight should determine whether they bring in another option.

They need their defence to be as solid as possible to give themselves the best chance of remaining in the top flight and that's why they need to recruit a central defender to come in alongside Tosin Adarabioyo.

Neco Williams may be wanted at Craven Cottage again – but Kenny Tete has performed at a high level before and this is why a backup option may only be needed if Silva feels he can place confidence in the Dutchman.

Looking further forward, bringing in a Fabio Carvalho replacement is a must and they would also benefit from having another wide player to help take pressure off Aleksandar Mitrovic who will be expected to score regularly again next term.

Another option or two will also be required to provide competition for Mitrovic and Rodrigo Muniz, leaving the club with plenty of work to do if they want to be fully ready for the start of the new campaign at the start of August.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-weighing-up-e12m-swoop-for-27-y-o/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham identify Celta Vigo ace Javi Galan as potential transfer target

Fulham have identified Celtic Vigo left-back Javi Galan as a potential transfer target if their chase for Real Betis' Alex Moreno fails, according to Spanish news outlet El Desmarque.

Fulham boss Marco Silva will be determined to bolster his squad this summer.

The Cottagers have been bouncing between the Premier League and the Championship but Silva will be keen to finally help the West Londoners cement their place in England's yop-flight after winning the Championship title.

Plenty of players have already been linked with summer moves to Craven Cottage. Real Betis left-back Moreno is among those mentioned as a target but now, a new report has revealed Fulham have an alternative in mind if their chase fails.

According to El Desmarque, Celta Vigo man Galan is being lined up as a secondary option if their move for Moreno fails to materialise.

The 27-year-old also plays his football in Spain's La Liga and missed only one game of league action for Celta Vigo last season, playing all 90 minutes in the other 37 games.

Along the way, Galan managed three assists, helping keep 13 clean sheets in the process.

The left-back search

Fulham already have a strong left-back on the books in the form of Antonee Robinson, with Joe Bryan also a solid option.

However, plenty of left-backs have already been linked with the Cottagers ahead of the summer transfer window, which officially opens on Friday.

Along with Moreno and now Galan, Matt Targett was linked with the club before returning to loan club Newcastle United permanently.

If reports are to be believed, it seems Silva is certainly keen on bringing in a new left-back this summer, but it remains to be seen if they end up moving for Galan with Moreno seemingly their priority.



https://the72.co.uk/275365/fulham-identify-celta-vigo-ace-javi-galan-as-potential-transfer-target/

[WhiteJC]

Coventry City stance emerges on 24 y/o amid Fulham and Middlesbrough links

Championship outfit Coventry City will resist all offers for star striker Viktor Gyokeres unless they receive a bid that's too good to turn down, as per an update from Coventry Live.

The 24-year-old's permanent arrival at the Coventry Building Society Arena was seen as a risk by many after he endured an underwhelming 2020/21 campaign for Mark Robins' side – but this gamble paid off with the forward recording 17 goals and five assists in 45 league appearances last term.

Appearing as one of the first names on the teamsheet, his form was key to the Sky Blues' early-season success as they managed to climb into the play-off zone before dropping out later on in the campaign.

They could be the victims of their own success this summer though with Fulham and Middlesbrough both thought to be interested in luring him away from the Midlands.

Boro are in desperate need of a couple of forwards after seeing Andraz Sporar, Aaron Connolly and Folarin Balogun all return to their respective parent clubs last month – and the Cottagers also require more options in this area with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Rodrigo Muniz their only two senior options at this stage.

However, they aren't going to be able to negotiate a cheap deal for Coventry's prized asset with the Sky Blues set to charge a premium price for the 24-year-old, though it remains unclear whether either interested side are willing to fork out the amount needed to seal an agreement.

The Verdict:

Looking at this situation realistically, Robins' side will surely be charging an eight-figure fee for his services and that's likely to force Boro out of the race immediately, even with the possibility of generating a sizeable figure for Djed Spence this summer.

The Teesside outfit may want to spend the money they get for Spence on numerous areas in a bid to level up their whole team, with a first-choice goalkeeper, a new left-wing back and a couple of forwards desperately needed.

If they want to maximise the quality in their forward department but also remain within the EFL's financial rules at the same time, they may need to negotiate a loan deal for another striker if they are to spend big on a talisman.

Unfortunately, Gyokeres might be out of their price range regardless, allowing the Cottagers to snap him up. But it remains to be seen whether they are willing to spend so much on a player that may not even start.

It would be difficult to see Silva changing his formation going into next season and Mitrovic has to be the main starter at this stage, so a move to either may not be on the cards in the coming months.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/coventry-city-stance-emerges-on-24-y-o-amid-fulham-and-middlesbrough-links/

[WhiteJC]

New facility to help Fulham increase community reach

Nathaniel Chalobah sees how the club's Foundation will use a rejuvenated pitch in Brixton to engage with local community

The Fulham Foundation has a long history of engaging with young people in their local communities and this work will be extended with the renovation of a communal facility in the heart of south London.

The original sports court at the Roupell Park estate in Brixton was concrete and gave residents limited opportunity to take part in structured football and multi-sport activity.

But with the help of a £92,000 grant from the Football Foundation, which is funded by the Premier League, The FA and Government (via Sport England), the local community now has a floodlit 3G multi-use games area.

This facility will host a variety of programmes such as Premier League Kicks, Premier League Girls Kicks, Pan DisAbility, More Than A Game and Walking Football, with the Fulham Foundation aiming to engage more than 200 people across four nights a week.

"We've been working on this project for the best part of four years now and to be here, seeing an amazing facility will really make a difference to this estate and the young people we want to engage," said Fulham Foundation CEO Mike McSweeney.

Fulham first-team midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah helped to officially open the facility and having moved to Lambeth as a child, he is acutely aware of the impact it will have on the local area.

"Football was my escape in terms of meeting friends and making friends," he said. "I actually grew up across the street from here and we didn't really have these sorts of pitches at that time, until I moved to Gypsy Hill where we had this type of pitch, and that's how I started to develop my skills.

"For me, most importantly it gives kids a different stimulation. When you're young it's very easy to just be indoors and play computer games all day. But if you can come out here, meet your friends and get some exercise, it's incredible really."



https://www.premierleague.com/news/2640139

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Partners With Somfy

Fulham Football Club is pleased to announce a partnership with state-of-the-art shading technology supplier Somfy for the next three seasons.

Somfy will provide Fulham FC's Fulham Pier development with an intelligent solar shading system to help create an energy efficient, sustainable space that provides visitors with a user experience focused on wellbeing and comfort. Somfy was chosen because of their expertise and proven experience in delivering smart shading solutions in the UK and across the world.

Somfy will use the partnership to engage with Fulham FC's business network and will use the Fulham Pier development as a showcase to develop further business opportunities.

Somfy operates in 59 countries and is the world leader in automatic controls for solar shading, access openings and closures in homes and buildings. They have spent the last 50 years assisting and making life easier for millions of users around the world. Somfy create new, reliable, and sustainable solutions that improve both energy performance and wellbeing for smart homes and connected buildings.

Channel Manager for Commercial Projects for Somfy UK Elliot Chmielinski said: "Becoming an official partner of Fulham FC is fantastic and supports our plans for further development in the UK. The prestigious new Fulham Pier development is the ideal showcase for our intelligent shading solutions. The Club's recent promotion back to the Premier League and ambitious growth plans make it an incredibly exciting time to partner. We look forward to working closely in partnership and supporting the club over the next three years."

Managing Director for Somfy UK Steven Montgomery added: "We are delighted to partner with Fulham FC. The partnership provides us the opportunity to really showcase the power of working with Somfy on an end-to-end solution for dynamic shading. I'm excited about introducing our customers and potential project partners in the future to how we work and will work with Fulham."

Fulham FC Sales Director Jon Don-Carolis added: "We are delighted to welcome Somfy onboard in a ground-breaking partnership across Fulham Football Club and Fulham Pier. As we move forward into an incredibly exciting period for the Club it is important that we partner with brands with shared vision and beliefs. This strategic collaboration will drive new business to Somfy through showcase, association and introduction emphasising our corporate credentials."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/june/08/fulham-partners-with-somfy/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham transfer blow emerges on 27-cap international

Fulham target Gonzalo Plata has revealed he would like to remain with former loan side Real Valladolid next season, with the winger speaking to Cadena Ser.

The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to Craven Cottage as late as last month, with fellow Premier League side Leeds United another side reported to have been tracking him after seeing him impress in Spain.

Recording six goals and five assists in 30 Spanish second-tier appearances for Valladolid, he played a considerable part in their promotion back to La Liga and this didn't go unnoticed by the English duo.

The Cottagers, who have also been linked with the likes of Rabbi Matondo and Dapo Afolayan, are seemingly on the search for a new wide man to come in and provide them with more attacking firepower following the departure of Fabio Carvalho.

They will have the financial power to make Plata's parent side Sporting Lisbon a tempting offer for his services after winning promotion back to the top flight at the first time of asking – and Valladolid's €10m permanent clause in his loan agreement is a fee Marco Silva's side may be willing to part with.

However, the player has other ideas and made it clear how much he wanted to remain in Spain with his former side.

Speaking to Cadena Ser (via HITC), he said: "I've asked Ronaldo to do everything possible so that I can stay at Real Valladolid.

"I want to stay here. I feel the love of my teammates, the coaching staff and the fans.

"That's the most important thing."

The Verdict:

If his heart isn't set on a move to the Cottagers, they need to look at other targets because they can't rely on players that aren't 100% committed to the cause.

They will certainly have other irons in the fire though and this is one reason why these comments may not be too much of a blow to officials in west London.

Ideally, they need players who have already established themselves in the top tier to give them the best possible chance to remain in the top tier and Plata certainly doesn't meet that criteria.

Although this is arguably more important defensively than going forward, with the 21-year-old potentially bringing unpredictability to Craven Cottage, having someone who has already proven themselves in the Premier League could help them to hit the ground running and take the pressure off the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Harry Wilson to score most of their goals.

And with the Colombian international's stance confirmed, that will help to provide the Cottagers with more clarity.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/fulham-transfer-blow-emerges-on-27-cap-international/

[WhiteJC]

Confusion over Fulham deal for midfielder – Cottagers still leading race for signing, deal just not agreed

Back on Wednesday, we covered a report from the Portuguese media claiming that Fulham were completing a deal for the signing of Braga midfielder Almoatasembellah Al Musrati.

It was even said he was in London to sort the last details and sign a contract.

That story, however, wasn't followed by other local outlets, and as A Bola writes about the 26-year-old today, they make it clear his exit from his club isn't agreed yet.

The outlet starts by claiming the only club who presented a concrete offer was Benfica, but the Eagles weren't able to convince Braga, as their bid was just below €10m, and the demand is for €15m.

That's where the 'English market' comes in as a 'strong possibility' for Al Musrati, where it's said Fulham have him on top of the list, and could reach the €15m fee for him.

A Bola writes that the Premier League ends up being the 'freshest' destination for Al Musrati, and finally points out that he was never in England to sort his transfer to Fulham.

The Cottagers are still said to be leading the race for the midfielder, but are just not as close to the signing as previously reported.




http://sportwitness.co.uk/confusion-fulham-deal-midfielder-cottagers-still-leading-race-signing-deal-just-not-agreed/

[WhiteJC]

Norwich and Fulham For U23s in Pre-Season

Matches against Norwich, Fulham and Coggeshall have been added to the U23s' friendly programme.

The U23s will face Coggeshall on Wednesday 6th July (KO 7.45pm), while home games against their Fulham and Norwich counterparts have been scheduled for Saturday 23rd July and Friday 29th July at Playford Road (KOs TBC).

Games at Leiston, Hastings, Stowmarket and Bury Town have previously been announced by the home clubs.

The fixture at Chelmsford on Wednesday 20th July the Clarets recently announced as against the U23s is not included on Town's list of U23s and so would appear to be against another Blues XI, presumably the U18s.

A full list of the pre-season fixtures which have been announced up to now at first team, U23 and U18 levels can be found here.



https://www.twtd.co.uk/ipswich-town-news/42776/norwich-and-fulham-for-u23s-in-pre-season

[WhiteJC]

'Highly likely': Agent hands Fulham boost for £10m Barcelona target

Javi Galan could be on the move this summer with Premier League newcomers Fulham eyeing up a potential £10 million deal for the Celta Vigo and La Liga ace, as reported by Faro de Vigo.

With Antonee Robinson improving year by year, and with the experienced Joe Bryan providing competition in reserve, left-back is not a position many expected Fulham to strengthen ahead of yet another top-flight return.

But, in addition to the likes of Takumi Minamino, Al-Musrati and Thomas Strakosha, the Championship champions have two La Liga lefties on their lengthy summer wishlist.

Fulham have reportedly had an £8 million bid rejected by Real Betis for the swashbuckling Alex Moreno. Not to be deterred, they will return with a new offer, while pledging to hand a man who turned 29-year-old this week a long-term contract at Craven Cottage.

Moreno may not be too enamoured about the prospect of swapping Europa League football for a potential relegation battle, however. And this is maybe why Fulham have identified Javi Galan as a more attainable, back-up option.

Is Javi Galan set to leave Celta Vigo for Fulham?

According to El Desmarque, Fulham have already held talks with Celta Vigo. They are proposing an offer that could see Galan swap Andalusia for West London to the tune of around £10 million.

"Several teams (are keen on Galan)," says a representative from the You First agency that represents the former Huesca man.

The agent believes it's 'highly likely' Galan will receive an offer that could turn his head. The defender has spent just just one season in Balaidos, joining Celta 11 months ago following Huesca's relegation.

"Javi has a valid contract until 2026. He is very comfortable at Celta. But we will assess his departure if an offer suits the player and the club."

An attack-minded, aggressive full-back, Gala has been likened to Wayne Rooney due to his stocky frame. The 27-year-old Galan was reportedly a target for Leeds United before the Yorkshire giants snapped up Junior Firpo instead.

He has also been linked with, among others, Lazio, Atletico Madrid and Barcelona.




https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2022/06/09/highly-likely-agent-hands-fulham-boost-for-10m-barcelona-target/

[WhiteJC]

Important Premier League statement that will affect Brighton, Tottenham, Chelsea, Fulham, Crystal Palace and all away fans
Brighton and Hove Albion away supporters were treated to some memorable performances on the road last season – including away victories at Tottenham and Arsenal

Premier League clubs unanimously agreed to keep the £30 cap on away ticket prices for the next three seasons.

The price limit of £30 was first introduced back in the 2016/17 season and it will be reviewed once again in 2025.

The statement from the Premier League read: "All clubs recognise the crucial importance of supporters in generating the best possible atmosphere at matches and acknowledge the additional travel costs often involved when following a team away from home.

"It was also agreed today to include an away ticket price cap within the Premier League Rules for the first time.

"Clubs also approved the introduction of an action plan to address improving the League's collective offer for fans. This includes developing a series of new League-wide measures and commitments for supporters.

As part of this commitment, clubs today endorsed the introduction of Fan Advisory Boards, and to nominate a Board-level official to be responsible for the club's fan engagement activities.

"Clubs also supported the development and introduction of a new Fan Engagement Standard, which will build on the existing high-quality fan activity that happens at many clubs. This will set a new minimum level of engagement across the League, with performance assessed by an independent panel.

"Fans are the lifeblood of the game and are essential to their clubs, these new standards will ensure long-term meaningful engagement with supporters."



https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/sport/football/brighton-and-hove-albion/important-premier-league-statement-that-will-affect-brighton-tottenham-chelsea-fulham-crystal-palace-and-all-away-fans-3726370

[WhiteJC]

Wolves transfer news: Wanderers face missing out on Al-Musrati to Fulham

Wolves are seemingly going to miss out on midfielder Al-Musrati, who is nearing a move to Fulham.

According to Diario do Minha, the Braga midfielder has been in London to finalise a move to the newly-promoted Premier League side.

Manager Marco Silva is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of 2022/23 in a bid to stay in the division.

The Libya international has had a strong couple of years with Braga, and established himself as one of the best central midfielders in Portugal.

Sporting CP and Benfica had both wanted him.

And Wolves were also recently linked with a move for the star (via Birmingham Mail).

But it seems a move to Craven Cottage is on the cards for the 26-year-old.

It is currently unclear how much Fulham are paying for the star. But it was recently claimed that Braga were looking to bank around £13 million.

Wolves fans will be hoping that there will be a new midfield arrival at Molineux soon.

There has been a lot of noise so far about Joao Palhinha, with reports claiming that Wolves are ready to table their first offer for the Sporting CP star.

Al-Musrati will be an interesting watch for Wolves fans if he completes Fulham move

It looks like Al-Musrati's move to Fulham could be imminent.

And it will be very interesting to see how he gets on in the Premier League.

He's a holding midfielder, but has the potential to drive forwards. Potentially he would have made for a great signing for Wolves.

But Wanderers appear to be set on Palhinha, and hopefully that deal will get sorted soon.

It will be interesting to see which player fares the best should both complete moves to England as expected.




https://www.molineux.news/transfer-news/wolves-transfer-news-wanderers-face-missing-out-on-al-musrati-to-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

"Does seem a stretch" – Liverpool's asking price for Fulham transfer target revealed: The verdict

This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Liverpool have slapped a £17 million pound price tag on Japanese international and Fulham transfer target Takumi Minamino.

As per BBC Sport, the forward is attracting transfer interest from a number of clubs, with the Reds prepared to let him go for a fee in the region of the above figure.

Minamino made 24 appearances in all competitions for the Reds in 2021/22, scoring 10 goals in those matches.

With Fulham a reported admirer of Minamino as they look to strengthen their squad following promotion from the Championship, we asked some of our writers here at FLW whether or not a deal for the Japanese international was worth pursuing for the Cottagers at the above asking price.

Declan Harte
Minamino has been a solid squad player for Liverpool, but has never really lived up to the initial expectation that he arrived with.

His time at Southampton highlighted that he is capable of competing for a mid-table top flight side.

But a price tag of £17 million does seem a stretch considering he signed for the Reds for a £7.25 million release clause in January 2020 and has never been more than a rotation option for Jurgen Klopp's side.

It would be worth Fulham's time keeping tabs on alternatives during any negotiations in the event that the Cottagers cannot bring that price down this summer.

While he would be a good signing, there are plenty of players that Fulham could bring in for a smaller fee.

Carla Devine
I think based on this price tag Fulham should still try and pursue the deal for Minamino. Although he hasn't got as much game time as he would've hoped for Liverpool, he has generally been able to perform.

Despite making only 11 Premier League appearances this season, the 27-year-old was still able to score three goals and if you put him in a side where he was getting regular football, he could easily score more.

He's a proven talent at this level and could really excel at a club like Fulham. Due to their promotion this season, it's not a figure that seems totally unreasonable to ask for.

However, if their bid is rejected and they're trying to be pushed higher I think that's at the stage where Fulham turn around and spend some time considering the decision.

Charlie Gregory
To be honest, I think £17m for Minamino is somewhat of a steal to a team like Fulham.

A record of 10 goals in 24 games suggests he could do plenty more given regular football and action. The reason he hasn't produced much more is arguably because he hasn't played much more either.

The player though has shown in the past and during his loan spell with Southampton that he can be a very good player in the top flight. With a team like Fulham, where he could get regular football too, he could thrive even more.

I think regardless of how much he costs, Minamino is exactly the type of signing a newly-promoted side like Fulham should be making.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/does-seem-a-stretch-liverpools-asking-price-for-fulham-transfer-target-revealed-the-verdict/

[WhiteJC]

PFA Championship Team of the Year - 2021/22


Five Fulham players have made the Championship Team of the Year / Clive Rose/GettyImages

Five Fulham players, perhaps unsurprisingly, have been named in the PFA Championship Team of the Year for 2021/22.

Tosin Adarabioyo, Tim Ream, Harry Wilson and Fabio Carvalho are recognised for their contributions to the Cottagers' promotion back to the Premier League, as is record goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic. The Serbian bagged an incredible 43 goals in 44 games to help fire Marco Silva's side back into the top flight at the first time of asking.

Bournemouth's return to the Premier League sees three of their players voted into the team, including Lloyd Kelly, Philip Billing and their top scorer Dominic Solanke.

Nottingham Forest loanee Djed Spence is another promoted player to make the team - the young right-back a standout player for Steve Cooper's side after joining on loan from Middlesbrough - and he's joined by Huddersfield goalkeeper Lee Nicholls and Blackburn forward Ben Brereton-Diaz.

The team, as is tradition, was picked by fellow players in the division.

PFA Championship Team of the Year - 2021/22
    GK: Lee Nicholls (Huddersfield Town)
    DF: Djed Spence (Nottingham Forest)
    DF: Tosin Adarabioyo (Fulham)
    DF: Lloyd Kelly (Bournemouth)
    DF: Tim Ream (Fulham)
    MF: Philip Billing (Bournemouth)
    MF: Harry Wilson (Fulham)
    MF: Fabio Carvalho (Fulham)
    FW: Ben Brereton-Diaz (Blackburn Rovers)
    FW: Aleksandar Mitrovic (Fulham)
    FW: Dominic Solanke (Bournemouth)



https://www.90min.com/posts/pfa-championship-team-of-the-year-2021-22

[WhiteJC]

PFA Team Of The Year

Fulham have five representatives in the PFA Championship Team of the Year.

Tim Ream and Tosin make up half of the backline, Harry Wilson and Fabio Carvalho are in midfield, while Aleksandar Mitrović is one of three forwards to be selected.

Huddersfield Town's Lee Nicholls is in goal, with Djed Spence of Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth captain Lloyd Kelly completing the backline.

Kelly's teammates Phillip Billing and Dominic Solanke are in midfield and up front, respectively, with Blackburn Rovers' top scorer Ben Brereton Diaz taking the final spot in the team.

The PFA Team of the Year is voted for by all the players in the Championship, so congratulations to Tim, Tosin, Harry, Fabio and Mitro on their inclusions!



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2022/june/09/pfa-team-of-the-year/

[WhiteJC]

Harry Wilson explains Neco Williams Liverpool transfer talks and makes Fulham admission

Liverpool's Neco Williams spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham

Harry Wilson has issued a hopeful come-and-get-him plea to Fulham for Liverpool's Neco Williams.

Wilson opened up on the half-season spent with Williams in London as the pair led Fulham to Premier League promotion under Marco Silva. The Fulham star, who made two appearances for the Reds and joined the Cottagers permanently having initially joined on loan last summer, a dmitted Williams' decision to leave the Anfield confines in January in a hunt for first-team football was not without Wilson's influence.

"Obviously, Neco had the option halfway through the year to get some game time with Fulham and I spoke to him beforehand. I thought the way we played, the style of football at Fulham, suited him and he came in in January and it was like he had been there for the full year," Wilson said.

"He'd done really well, managed to get a couple of assists, few goals as well, lots of minutes under his belt."

While Wilson has also voiced hope that Williams might follow in his footsteps by leaving Liverpool and returning to the Londoners next season.

"Neco was at a similar age that I was when I had my first loan to Hull, and I feel like when you're at that age, 20-21, when you need to get first-team football," he said.

"He was in a decent position at Liverpool to learn from the best right-back in the world but it came a point where he had to go get minutes for himself and it has benefited him massively. Everyone can see that when he puts on a Wales shirt.

"I think we can see from his performance the other day that did him a world of good," Wilson said. "And who knows? Maybe he can come back next year."

Williams' half-season loan to Fulham marked the sharpest and most blistering form of the 21-year-old's senior career as he topped it off with promotion to the Premier League. In his 14 appearances for Marco Silva's scintillating outfit, Williams' registered two goals and two assists and routinely left Fulham cooing over his effervescent displays at full-back.

Williams elaborated on that developing theme against Ukraine in Wales' World Cup play-off final on Sunday. The routine ease with which he slipped out from under defenders attempting to pin him against a touchline was already a collector's item, but William's robust defensive efforts – five clearances, five tackles and 58 touches to lead Wales' stats – seized the headlines in this latest edition of Williams in a Wales shirt.

Between Williams and uncompromising Spurs' centre-back Ben Davies, the duo combined for 44 per cent of Wales' clearances, tackles, interceptions and blocked shots. That last summer Williams' minutes in Euro2020 came primarily as a substitute is testament to his rollicking rise in form.



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/neco-williams-liverpool-transfer-talks-24187569

[WhiteJC]

Youngster linked with Bournemouth, Fulham and Forest wants summer move, report claims

The Yorkshire Post says that Callum Styles is keen to leave Barnsley this summer – the Hungarian international has been linked with Bournemouth, Fulham and Nottingham Forest.

Styles has been a mainstay in the Barnsley side for the past two seasons now. Across the last two Championship campaigns the wing-back has missed just five league games, featuring 43 times in the second tier last season whilst scoring three and assisting one.

He impressed once again, despite his side's struggles. Having made the surprise step up to the international stage with Hungary – featuring in the 1-0 win over England last weekend – Styles is now being linked with a Premier League move, with Mirror claiming that Bournemouth, Fulham and Nottingham Forest are all keen on the 22-year-old after all three earned promotion last season.

With the Tykes heading into League One, still without a manager and looking as though they're lacking a bit of direction, a report from The Yorkshire Post says that Styles is keen to leave Oakwell this summer, which could hand his Premier League suitors a potential transfer boost as they vie for the Hungarian.

Big decisions ahead for Styles...

Styles is a really dynamic and versatile player who played in a number of positions last season with Barnsley, including right wing and right wing-back, and even in central midfield.

His contemporary attributes make him a quality Championship player and at just 22 years old, he's showing the kind of potential needed to one day play in the Premier League.

A move to any of his linked clubs would be an exciting prospect this summer, though he may not be a regular starter should he make the step up to the top flight so soon.

Whilst he's got options ahead of him, he needs to make a positive career call this summer – Styles needs to keep playing regularly as to continue his development, so precaution is needed when considering a Premier League move.

But Styles certainly looks set for the Oakwell exit this summer, along with a handful of other names.




https://the72.co.uk/275424/youngster-linked-with-bournemouth-fulham-and-forest-wants-summer-move-report-claims/

[filham]

Well we saw a goods few records broken last season but if we now sign Musarati  surely we will have then to handle a record long christian name.
Almoatasembellah, it will take me a while to get my tongue around that one.

[bencher]

Well we saw a goods few records broken last season but if we now sign Musarati  surely we will have then to handle a record long christian name.
Almoatasembellah, it will take me a while to get my tongue around that one.

Abdeslam Ouaddou will be distraught at giving up his record as most unpronounceable signing