Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 31/01/23...

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Heckingbottom discusses Sander Berge's potential Sheffield United exit as Fulham open talks to sign midfielder

Sheffield United manager Paul Heckingbottom says his side are 'prepared' for the potential departure of Sander Berge in the final two days of this month's transfer window.

Berge, 24, looks like he could be closing in on his Sheffield United exit in the final two days of this month's transfer window, with Premier League side Fulham having reportedly opened talks to sign the Norwegian midfielder ahead of tomorrow's 11pm transfer deadline.

After joining the South Yorkshire club in January 2020 from Genk, Berge has featured 81 times in league competitions for Sheffield United, scoring a total of 12 goals from midfield. He's scored four and assisted three in 19 Championship outings so far this season.

And speaking to YorkshireLive about the possibility of losing Berge in the next 48 hours, Blades boss Heckingbottom offered a calming response, saying:

"If we have to do it we have to do it [sell Berge]. There are players there who are ready to go. I will be upset losing Sander but we will have to get on with it.

"I don't want that, but we are prepared for it if that happens. We would be out of the embargo and we've got two players we want to bring in to replace the two we'd have lost."

Sheffield United are currently under a transfer embargo for failing to keep up with previous payments. YorkshireLive write that selling Berge 'is one way the debt can be settled and it will also lead to the embargo being lifted'.

A tough break...
Heckingbottom has long spoken about his desire to keep his best players at the club, and the fact that Sheffield United might be forced into selling Berge because of their current financial situation will be frustrating to the Blades boss.

Sheffield United have performed better than many would've expected them this season and that's a huge credit to Heckingbottom. Losing Berge though is a real blow, and whilst the Blades have a 12-point gap over Middlesbrough in 3rd, anything can happen in the final 18 games of the season.

Expect Sheffield United to act fast should Berge move on, as Heckingbottom will want a direct replacement to keep his side's promotion bid right in track.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/01/30/heckingbottom-discusses-sander-berges-potential-sheffield-united-exit-as-fulham-open-talks-to-sign-midfielder/

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Reflections on a Cup classic
I've written before about how much of an enthusiast I am for the FA Cup. There's no doubt that Saturday's draw with Sunderland was a disappointment, but there were a number of reasons why I was pleased to have made the trip down to London for our fourth round tie. Firstly, it was an absolute cracker. Sunderland, who stand a decent chance of a second successive promotion, came to play and made it like a Cup contest of yesteryear. Both teams wanted to win and went for it. Just as hearteningly, nearly 23,000 fans came to the Cottage to watch it. Many were at their very first Fulham game and plenty probably wanted to test out the new Riverside Stand but there were treated to a terrific Cup tie. On a very selfish level, I now get the bonus of another Fulham game in the north east to attend – so I guess I should stick the superb Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson on my Christmas card list.

You could see by the way Marco Silva sent on Aleksandar Mitrovic almost as soon as Tom Cairney had equalised that Fulham wanted to avoid a replay. An extra game in as crowded a season as this as almost as welcome as remembering Mark Fotheringham wearing our lovely shirt, but it will at least give the management team another opportunity to assess a few players who aren't in our regular starting line-up. Perhaps young Luke Harris might finally get a go in the number ten role. Who knows? The fact that a wide open contest ended as a draw was a blow, but all the credit for that has to go to Sunderland. Tony Mowbray's side showed a ruthlessness that the Whites lacked in seizing upon a dreadful defensive error but they didn't shut up shot after Jack Clarke's early strike and continued to attack throughout. Poor old Chris Rigg was denied the sort of storybook moment only the FA Cup can conjure up – but the Black Cats and their brilliant supporters should take great heart from their afternoon by the Thames.

Fulham were far from their fluent past – and that isn't as a surprise as the sparkling football that has characterised how Silva's side have attacked the Premier League since August has been missing for a little while now. Part of that will be fatigue and part of it is down to opponents now planning for the more adventurous game plan. On Saturday, you had a mix and match team that didn't have the benefit of continuity, although we shouldn't discount how ferociously Sunderland battled for everything and put us on the back foot at times. It is clear that, without a key players, Fulham are a far less effective side and that is something that Silva and the club's recruitment team are obviously trying to address with the rumoured late raids in the January transfer window.

There are a few principle areas of concern. Firstly, Issa Diop's dozy start to proceedings was almost very costly indeed. Both he and Tosin Adarabioyo looked laboured in much of their play, but it was the Frenchman who took far too long to try and find Marek Rodak with a routine backpass. Clarke nipped in to finish with all the assurance of a winger who for Tottenham and Leeds not so long ago – and it proved to be an awfully long way back for the Whites. Diop duly took full responsibility for his mistake both in the changing room and in a Q&A with those in the Riverside after the final whistle, but such carelessness in concerning. Both centre backs were well below their best and there is a compelling argument that the mere presence of Tim Ream adds so much to the back four. Reassurance, for one thing.

Layvin Kurzawa had a torrid afternoon. He's terrific going forward, as we saw at Hull, and as he demonstrated with a storming run and assist for Tom Cairney's well-taken leveller. But, perhaps understandably for someone who has played merely five matches in almost eighteen months, he looks a little rusty with the bread and butter for a full back, which should be defensive positioning. The Frenchman was run ragged by a combination of Amad Diallo, who continued his fine form since swapping Old Trafford for the Stadium of Light on loan, and Patrick Roberts. It was quite bittersweet to see the brown eyed boy from the Fulham academy, the posterchild of our long sought-after academy one status, turning it on at Craven Cottage against Fulham. Kurzawa will need to be far better in the replay if we are to avoid another FA Cup humbling.

Poor old Harry Wilson is still struggling. I do think some of the online comments over the weekend seem to understate the impact of the dreadful knee injury he suffered courtesy of Tyrone Mings in the summer. It is a really difficult thing to get over, especially as he has been building up match sharpness mainly in cameos from the bench. As Peter Rutzler has written this morning, the Welshman just needs something to go his way in front of goal. He still has all of the skills that made him so effective for Fulham last season: the intelligent runs from out on the flank to a more central position, an ability to come alive in the penalty area and that familiar jink onto his left foot, but he has missed a number of chances to get on the scoresheet this season. You can see why Silva and his coaching staff still think he adds a missing ingredient – and Wilson was denied by a couple of great saves, but the winger badly needs a confidence boost.

Plenty of people were grumbling afterwards against Carlos Vinicius, but I thought the Brazilian did okay against two physical centre halves, who didn't give an inch to Mitrovic either after he came on. Carlos can go scoreless for the rest of the season after heading that winner in the SW6 derby anyway for all I care. He'll always be far more of a Fulham hero that Saturday's recipient of the Forever Fulham award, Gary Elkins, who couldn't leave for Wimbledon quick enough when a struggling side were in the doldrums. What was all that about?

We all sing about Silva being a genius, and justifiably so, given what he has achieved in eighteen months at Fulham, but I felt he got his substitutions wrong on Saturday. Taking off Cairney, who had scored a superb goal, and was giving us much more time and purpose on the ball lost the home side plenty of impetus. It might have been for fitness reasons, but without the captain, Fulham ceded the initiative. The balance of the side was also upset by the introduction of Bobby Decordova-Reid, which saw Manor Solomon shifted from the left wing into a more central role. The Israeli's quick feet, creativity, and pace was the highlight of the afternoon from a home perspective. He had the beating of his full back almost every time and that incisiveness could have been valuable in the closing stages against a tired defence. Getting ninety minutes in Solomon's legs was vital – and he could be a real difference maker in the second half of the season.

We'd all have preferred a routine victory with plenty of goals at the weekend. But this isn't Football Manager. Things can't always go swimmingly, even in such a sensational season. A replay is no bad thing. We had plenty of them in 1975. And, more recently, even our journey to the 2002 FA Cup semi-final had a stumble against Wycombe Wanderers in the early stages. For the long-term health of the world's oldest Cup competition, a thrilling draw wasn't the worst result.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/reflections-on-a-cup-classic/

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West Ham transfer news: Fulham's Kevin Mbabu now under consideration before deadline day

West Ham United are now considering a move for Fulham defender Kevin Mbabu before deadline day.

That's according to Give Me Sport, who believe David Moyes is very interested in bringing in a right-back.

Although he barely played for the first-team, it looks like Harrison Ashby is set to leave the club.

It leaves a gap in the squad for a right-back, and Mbabu could be the player to fill that gap.

Mbabu is a Swiss international with 22 caps, and signed for Fulham in the summer from Wolfsburg.

He arrived at Craven Cottage in a deal worth £6.4m, but things haven't gone to plan for the 27-year-old this season.

Mbabu signed for Fulham to boost his chances of going to the World Cup with Switzerland.

However, he started the season as back-up to Kenny Tete, who has had a great campaign for Fulham.

When he picked up an injury, Marco Silva preferred forward Bobby De Cordova-Reid in the right-back role.

Mbabu has since been absent from Fulham's matchday squads for some time, and now a move to West Ham could be on the cards.

West Ham eyeing move for Mbabu
Give Me Sport believe Mbabu is one of a number of defenders the Hammers are considering.

'They continue to look at right backs too with Tottenham's Djed Spence, Fulham's Kevin Mbabu and Aston Villa's Calum Chambers some of the names under consideration.'

West Ham currently have Ben Johnson, Vladimir Coufal and Thilo Kehrer available at right-back.

Johnson has played just nine minutes since the World Cup, being an unused substitute in every other game so far.

Coufal has been Moyes' first choice since the mid-season break, but his performances have dipped this season.

Kehrer has also received criticism this campaign, and is also needed as cover at centre-back.

It hasn't worked for Mbabu at Fulham, but he could be given another go at the Premier League with West Ham.

Djed Spence is another option Give Me Sport have suggested, but Tottenham's right-back dilemma took another twist today.

Spence was supposed to be available on loan, under the assumption Pedro Porro would be signing for Spurs.

However, that deal might now be off, leaving Spence in limbo.



https://tbrfootball.com/west-ham-transfer-news-fulhams-kevin-mbabu-now-under-consideration-before-deadline-day/

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Lukic gives green light to Fulham move

Sasa Lukic has reportedly agreed personal terms with Fulham and is now only a step away from completing a move from Torino.

The Granata have already agreed to a deal with the Premier League side, selling the 26-year-old Serbian midfielder for €10m plus add-ons. The situation has caused tension between head coach Ivan Juric and sporting director Davide Vagnati, with the former wanting to keep the player until the summer and the latter pushing for an immediate sale.

As reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, Lukic has now been convinced of the move to Fulham and has agreed personal terms with the Premier League club. Recent reports suggested that the 26-year-old would pen a four-and-a-half-year deal worth €2.2m net per season.

Lukic joined Torino from Partizan Belgrade in July 2016 for €1.7m. Since his arrival, the Serbian midfielder has scored 14 goals and provided six assists in 168 appearances across all competitions.

#Calciomercato | @TorinoFC_1906, ai dettagli la trattativa per #Lukic al @FulhamFC per 10 milioni di eurohttps://t.co/0OqMoAoXdy

— Gianluca Di Marzio (@DiMarzio) January 30, 2023

https://football-italia.net/lukic-gives-green-light-to-fulham-move/

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Fulham 'agree fee for Lukic'
Fulham have agreed a £10m with Torino for the transfer of Serbian midfielder Sasa Lukic, according to reports from Italy.

The midfielder told Torino that he wanted to move to London and it is believed that has agreed personal terms on four and a half year contract and passed a medical.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/01/fulham-agree-fee-for-lukic/

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'One step away' – 'White smoke' for player's sale to Fulham, has 'accepted proposal' from Silva's side

Earlier on Monday, Gianluca Di Marzio reported Saša Lukić's move from Torino to Fulham has been put on stand-by.

Despite this, it was explained the two clubs continue to negotiate for the midfielder's sale in the last two days of the winter market.

There has been a new development in this case if multiple reports coming out of Italy are to be believed.

A latest report from Gianluca Di Marzio states the Serbia international is 'one step away' from Fulham. The two clubs are now finalising the details of a deal that will see the 26-year-old make a switch to London. The operation will be closed for €10m.

Lukić, who had decided against extending his contract at Torino beyond 2024, is convinced of joining Marco Silva's side. Di Marzio took to Twitter to add that the player is set to join the Premier League side and has 'accepted the proposal' made by them.

Over at TuttoMercatoWeb, they explain there is a 'white smoke' between the Serie A side and Fulham for the Serbian's sale for €10m plus €3m bonuses.

Lukić has a contract worth €2.2m net per year until 2027 ready at Fulham.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/one-step-away-white-smoke-players-sale-fulham-accepted-proposal-silvas-side/

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Fulham closing in on midfielder signing as target heads to Leeds United

Latest news on the transfer front involving Fulham as they prepare for the deadline

Fulham are reportedly edging closer to the signing of Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic. The Cottagers are looking to tie up a deal for the Serbia international before the end of the January transfer window on Tuesday evening.

According to reporter Fabrizio Romano on Twitter (see tweet below), they are now 'closing' in on his signature. The transfer fee is said to be €10million and he is expected to fly to London to seal the deal.

Lukic, 26, has been on the books at Torino since 2016 and has made 162 appearances in all competitions, chipping in with 14 goals. Fulham have been in the hunt for midfield reinforcements and will see him as someone to add more competition and depth to their options in the middle of the park.

He isn't the only player that they have looked at in that position. The Daily Mail claim Marco Silva's side along with Nottingham Forest have looked at Juventus and USA ace Weston McKennie. However, he is heading to fellow Premier League side Leeds United instead.

In other news, Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom has had his say on Fulham's pursuit of Sander Berge. He has told the Sheffield Star: "The club could be discussing a fee for him and he might want to stay. We're under an embargo and one way to get out of that is to sell. I don't want that."



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-closing-in-on-midfielder-signing-as-target-heads-to-leeds-united-4006148

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Sander Berge: Fulham transfer decision could complicate move for Sheffield United man

Fulham's hopes of signing Sander Berge from Sheffield United could be complicated by the arrival of fellow midfielder Saša Lukić, if and when his move from Torino is completed.

The Cottagers emerged as the frontrunners to land Berge after the Blades' perilous financial state saw them agree to do business over one of their star men. A £22m signing from Genk on this day in 2020, a fee of £20m plus add-ons has been mooted, with Newcastle United and Brighton also credited with an interest in the 24-year-old.

Boss explains Sander Berge absence amid Fulham, Newcastle links
But according to reports from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Fulham are close to agreeing a deal with Torino for Lukić, with the player soon expected to fly to London to put the finishing touches to the deal.

It remains to be seen how the Lukić deal affects Fulham's move for Berge but they are not the only club in play, with United hoping to drive an auction for the Norwegian's services before Tuesday's transfer deadline.

United consider transfer move for Forest man if Berge leaves
The Blades are second in the Championship table and 12 points ahead of third in the race for the Premier League, but things are less serene off the pitch and the club recently were placed under a transfer embargo by the EFL for non-payment of an outstanding transfer sum.

Newcastle entered the conversation after agreeing to sell Jonjo Shelvey to Nottingham Forest - which may free up Lewis O'Brien to move to United as a potential Berge replacement if he is prised away before Tuesday's 11pm deadline.



https://www.derbyshiretimes.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/fulham-close-in-on-transfer-signing-that-could-complicate-sheffield-united-sander-berge-move-4006137

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Newcastle United and Fulham 'eye' Sheffield United star as Chelsea ace emerges as Jonjo Shelvey 'alternative'

Newcastle United will face competition from one of their Premier League rivals to land Sheffield United's Sander Berge.

Ahead of the January transfer window deadline, here, we take a look all the latest transfer gossip that has emerged from St James's Park and beyond:

Fulham and Newcastle United have shown interest in signing Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge before the January transfer window closes. Berge has played a key role in guiding the Blades to 2nd place in the Championship, featuring 19 times in the league under Paul Heckingbottom this season.

The Blades are very reluctant to see Berge depart this window, however, a takeover bid of the club and a transfer embargo being placed on the club, means they may be forced to sell a prized asset this month or see one of their top-earners, such as Berge, depart on-loan. Both Fulham and Newcastle have expressed an interest in taking the 24-year-old on-loan this month and, according to the Athletic, the Cottagers lead the race for his signature.

The Magpies have been linked with a move for the Norwegian international following news that Jonjo Shelvey is expected to join Nottingham Forest before the window closes, joining former teammate Chris Wood in making the switch to the City Ground from St James's Park.

Chelsea midfielder 'on radar'
Alternatively, Newcastle have also been linked with a move for Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek. Loftus-Cheek traditionally plays as a central midfielder and has also deputised as a right-back on occasion for Chelsea.

Any deal for the England international would likely see him move to St James's Park on-loan until the end of the season. Speaking about the possibility of further transfer activity this window, Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe revealed that loan deals are more likely than permanent additions before the transfer deadline closes.

Howe said: "There's no guarantee in that, as I've said with other transfers. We'll try, and we'll see what we can do, but, in terms of permanent signings, that would be very difficult.

"We'll look for, potentially, a loan situation, but it's got to be the right player. We don't just want to take any player."



https://www.shieldsgazette.com/sport/football/newcastle-united/newcastle-united-and-fulham-eye-sheffield-united-star-as-chelsea-ace-emerges-as-jonjo-shelvey-alternative-4006173

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Fulham Rumour Round-Up: Berge, Lukic, Andre

We're prepared for a typically frantic end to the January transfer window and before we're linked with a Swedish winger from an obscure Polish outfit, Cam's got the latest scoops from Twitter and the tabloids.

Last-minute cash splashes, it's a Fulham thing, and as Deadline Day inches closer and closer, new transfer rumours are spilling onto our timelines unexpectedly and some of the could-be additions within this piece are proper certified ballers. Time is of the essence, so let's get down to it.

Sander Berge – Sheffield United
Late on in the transfer window, another intriguing central midfielder in Sander Berge has been touted for a potential switch from Sheffield United to Fulham, as per Sky Sports News, although Chelsea and Liverpool are also thought to be tracking the £20m-rated Norway international.

Berge was coincidentally omitted entirely from matchday matters as the Blades forced an FA Cup fourth round replay with Wrexham, and the 24-year-old's sudden absence has naturally raised suspicions. An intimidating presence in the centre of the park, Berge would certainly reinforce Fulham's midfield and as he's attuned to Premier League football, he's got to be a prime option to consider.

Sasa Lukic – FC Torino
The Daily Mail have disclosed that Fulham are adamant in their pursuit of Torino's Sasa Lukic, a Serbia teammate of Aleksandar Mitrovic's at the 2022 World Cup, and his Turin-based employers are fortunately willing to allow the 26-year-old to depart before the January transfer window slams shut.

Torino are vying to replace Lukic with Hellas Verona's Ivan Ilic, and if the fellow Serbian joins Toro, Fulham's alleged bid of £8m could very well be accepted and that, in today's market, is a lucrative bargain. Lukic is multifaceted, he can occupy the midfield as an eight or a six and with three goals and an assist in 19 outings, there's reward in his honest efforts.

Joshua Brenet – FC Twente
Subject to a report published by The Express, Fulham are exploring alternatives if Arsenal's Cedric Soares remains in north London, or indeed heads elsewhere, and FC Twente's Joshua Brenet is a right-back that's supposedly being monitored for good measure.

The 28-year-old's been capped twice by the Netherlands and testing his skill set in the Premier League is apparently a 'dream' of his as well. The effective ball-carrying fullback has been linked with Fulham before, as in 2018 the Daily Mail divulged that Brenet – then of PSV Eindhoven – was a £4m target of the Whites and Swansea City, but the then PSV coach, Phillip Cocu, was subsequently reluctant to sell.

Andre – Fluminense FC
It is 90min's understanding that Fulham have tabled a bid – allegedly worth £18m – for Fluminense's animated midfielder Andre, however the Brazilian Serie A outfit are understandably opposed to the prospect of parting ways with their star performer midway through the season.

Described as a highly motivated, aspiring midfield leader, Andre has previously caught the attention of Liverpool and FC Barcelona although as the 21-year-old's recently put pen to paper on a contract renewal that ensures his employment until 2026, it appears unlikely that he'll wave goodbye to The Maracana in the next few days.

Jacob Christensen – Nordsjaelland
Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb have revealed that Fulham are keeping tabs on Nordsjaelland's Jacob Christensen and the Danish midfielder's arrival is thought to be 'close'. Christensen's contract at his current club expires in the summer and the 21-year-old is heralded as an up-and-coming Nordic talent.

Known simply as Jaxe, Christensen is a defensive-minded midfielder and while he hasn't found the back of the net this season, he does have three assists to his credit. As it stands, his team currently lead the Danish Superliga and he is a crucial component within Johannes Hoff Thorup's table-topping set-up.

Beto – Udinese Calcio
Well-known transfer informant Alfonso Leocádio broadcast via Twitter that among other potential signings, Fulham are also eyeing Udinese's Portuguese striker Beto, and this comes as a somewhat tenuous surprise because there is no mention of our supposed interest in the 24-year-old anywhere else.

It could very well be fictitious, a fabrication but nevertheless, the possibility of landing an attacker of Beto's ability is enticing and I really hope there's legs to it. He's bagged seven goals so far for Udinese, Andrea Sottil's men sit seventh in the Serie A standings but compellingly, the 6ft 4in target man has been associated with a move away from the Stadio Fruili this January so as silly season really ramps up, never say never.

Rory MacLeod – Dundee United
Posting on his Patreon page, journalist Alan Nixon earmarked Fulham as a main suitor in the hunt for Dundee United's 16-year-old starlet Rory MacLeod, and as the Whites share a sporting partnership with the SPL side, we could very well be in pole position.

It's said that as well as Fulham (courtesy of The Sun), West Ham United, Newcastle United and Brighton and Hove Albion as also admirers of the fledgling winger's exploits. He has featured nine times for The Terrors in all competitions this season, he's a Scotland U17 international and as he obtains even more game time in the Scottish top flight, his rise up the footballing pyramid will surely be fast-tracked as he's regarded as a very promising youngster with a uniquely mature attitude.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-01-30-fulham-rumour-round-up-berge-lukic-andre/

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Sheffield United Transfer News: Fulham to sign Lukic as Sander Berge confusion continues

There remains confusion over whether or not Sander Berge will remain a Sheffield United player this month, amid reports the club are in talks to sell.

Paul Heckingbottom confirmed after the draw with Wrexham that the club had asked him for Berge not to be involved.

It comes as reported interest from Fulham and Newcastle United emerges, while a host of other PL sides are also thought to be watching on. The interest from Fulham seemed to be the most advanced. After Sky initially broke the news, Yorkshire Live confirmed those talks, before the Telegraph's Mike McGrath said last night that a deal was close to being done.

However, in a move that could bring a chink of light to United's hopes of keeping Berge, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Fulham are now close to signing midfielder, Sasa Lukic, from Torino.

It remains to be seen whether Fulham will be content with signing Lukic or if they feel adding both him and Berge is necessary.

The Cottagers are low when it comes to central midfield options. It does mean a second deal is likely, meaning Berge could well still end up in London come the deadline.

Sheffield United News View: £20m for Berge is good business but a shame
It's an absolute farce that is has come to this. It's just proven all along that the current owner doesn't have the cashflow to run a football club and has, effectively, been lucky we had two seasons in the Premier League.

There's no problem with selling players. Players come and go at all clubs. But the manner in which we are effectively being forced to sell is quite ridiculous. Especially when there is meant to be a potential new owner in the pipeline.

Berge going for £20m will get us through this season no doubt. But some of that money must go back into the XI immediately. If it simply pays the debt and covers costs until the end of the season, then United are in trouble.



https://www.sheffieldunited.news/news/fulham-to-sign-sasa-lukic-as-sander-berge-confusion-continues/

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Fulham? Newcastle United? Liverpool? Sheffield United? Where next for Sander Berge?

His omission from Sheffield United's squad at Wrexham sent the message out loud and clear: Sander Berge is up for sale.

In the last transfer window the Blades dug their heels in, refusing to let the Norwegian go for anything less than a release clause thought to be around £22m – way in excess of what anyone appeared willing to pay.

But now with a takeover bringing uncertainty and a transfer embargo stopping the Blades from signing the striker they want, the Championship club are ready to come to the table.

So where could Berge be playing on February 1?

FULHAM
The early front-runners are looking for something a little extra to potentially push them into European qualification after a magnificent first season back in the Premier League – just what Berge was brought to Bramall Lane for in 2020.

A physically strong player who makes good runs from midfield and is a good tackler, Berge could be a good addition for the Cottagers.

Fulham are thought to be close to a deal for midfielder Sasa Lukic so it remains to be seen if the plan is for them to play together, or if it will be one or the other.

NEWCASTLE UNITED
The Magpies may be dubbed the richest club in the world thanks to their Saudi owners but they still have to be shrewd about negotiating financial fair play. A reasonably-priced central midfielder high on quality and with experience of the English game might tick a few boxes as they look to replace the seemingly Nottingham Forest-bound Jonjo Shelvey.

Said to be offering a loan with an obligation to buy but in their predicament the Blades need as much cash up front as possible.

LIVERPOOL
Long-time admirers of Berge, and the feeling is mutual. When he played there in the Champions League in November 2019, Berge was quoted as saying: "Playing at Anfield is a dream for everyone in the world, and not least for Norwegians. Liverpool are the best team (at the time) and have the most fans.

"So I could certainly like to play at Anfield as often as possible."

The more telling quote could have been manager Jurgen Klopp's at the weekend: "Nothing will happen in this transfer window, not at all."

Much as Liverpool's midfield needs freshening up their midfield, they too are up for sale.

BRIGHTON AND HOVE ALBION
The Seagulls have also been linked with Moises Caicedo expected to leave on deadline day.

Although Berge can play all midfield roles, he would not be the most like-for-like replacement for Caicedo but with around £70m expected to be burning a hole in their pocket, as well as the funds from Leandro Trossard's move to Arsenal, Brighton's shrewd recruiters will not just be looking to replace what has gone but strengthen what remains as, like Fulham, they look to make the most of an excellent start to the season.

CHELSEA
Had a loan move for Berge rejected in the summer and are currently spending money like confetti, but do not seem to be near the front of the queue this month.

AC MILAN
Showed interest in the summer, but not at the Blades' asking price it seems unlikely they will be able to force their way through a crowded fiel

SHEFFIELD UNITED
"It doesn't mean Sander's going anywhere, Sander's happy here," insisted Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom when he explained why the midfielder was left out in north Wales.

It sounded pretty optimistic, though.

Berge has long been touted for a move and if this can clear United's transfer embargo, allowing them to sign a replacement for Reda Khadra and bring in a player like Lewis O'Brien to replace the Norwegian, keep Iliman Ndiaye and leave some cash in the bank, it surely makes sense. There are a lot of 'ifs' there to be achieved in a short time-frame, however.

The transfer window shuts at 11pm on Tuesday?



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-united/fulham-newcastle-united-liverpool-sheffield-united-where-next-for-sander-berge-4006190

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Report shares the contract Fulham have offered £11.5m target Sasa Lukic

Fulham are set to hand Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic a four-and-a-half year contract worth around £40,000-a-week a week as the Serbia international prepares to swap Serie A for the Premier League, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

During the summer of 2022, Torino sold arguably the finest central defender in the whole of Italy – Brazil international Gleison Bremer – and came back stronger than ever.

Granata coach Ivan Juric, then, has reason to feel optimistic even as another key player prepares to bid farewell. Lukic, TMW say, should be a Fulham player by the time the deadline passes on Tuesday.

The Cottagers are offering £11.5 million; £9 million of which will be paid up front. Lukic will also sign a contract until 2027, worth almost £40,000-a-week.

Fulham are closing in on Torino and Serie A ace Sasa Lukic
"Lukic is a very strong player. I consider him really strong because he combines the two phases (defensive and attacking). Tough, intelligent," says Juric, linked with the Southampton job before Nathan Jones took over from Ralph Hasenhuttl at St Mary's instead. 

"I'm sorry that things don't go the way I would like. There are these difficulties with (contract) renewals. Let's see how things evolve, based on what the boy wants. We don't just need to replace (him), but add to those who I think are good.

"I would always like him here, but there are different dynamics. A younger boy could arrive (to replace him). Sometimes it's even right (to sell), as happened with Bremer," Juric adds. 

"We'll manage, I think."

Lukic, who featured for Serbia at the Qatar World Cup, is out of contract until 2024. His reluctance to sign a new deal means Torino are running out of time to make a pretty penny on a player who has spent the last seven years in Italy.

Fulham, who avoided an FA Cup upset at home to Sunderland on Saturday, have also made an offer for Fluminense starlet Andre Trindade. A new right-back is high on Marco Silva's wishlist too, with Cedric Soares not yet arriving from Arsenal. 



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/01/30/report-shares-the-contract-fulham-have-offered-11-5m-target-sasa-lukic/

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Fulham expected to offer £20m+ for midfielder soon – Newcastle also 'interested in bidding' for him

As has been reported in England, both Fulham and Newcastle United are interested in signing Sander Berge from Sheffield United.

The Norwegian midfielder was left out of the FA Cup draw against Wrexham on Sunday because of the rumours surrounding his future, and it appears the Craven Cottage side are currently in the lead.

This is according to TV2 in Norway, who corroborate information from England regarding the transfer chase for the midfielder, who has also been linked with a move to Newcastle.

The outlet make it clear that Sheffield United 'have not received concrete bids' for their star just yet, but they do expect that 'significant sums will be put on the table within the next 24 hours'.

That's comes from 'informed sources',  and 'one of the clubs planning a bid' are Marco Silva's Fulham, as they want to bolster their squad a bit further to continue their great start to the season.

A bid of NOK250m (around £20.4m) is expected from the London club, and if such a transfer to take place, it would make Berge the third most expensive Norwegian of all time behind Erling Haaland and Martin Ødegaard.

However, it's also explained that both Newcastle and Brighton are 'also interested in bidding' for the Sheffield United star, while Napoli are also keen.

With the Blades facing a few financial issues, it's stated they want the money up front, meaning a loan with a view to buy seems off the table.

Now, it's up to Fulham or Newcastle to push the button, while Brighton will be waiting to see what happens with Moises Caicedo before doing anything.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-expected-offer-20m-midfielder-soon-newcastle-also-interested-bidding/

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Sources: Ex-Tottenham star Josh Onomah in talks to terminate Fulham deal

Fulham midfielder Josh Onomah is in talks with the club to cancel his contract, sources have told Football Insider.

Onomah, 25, is in the final six months of his Fulham deal and both parties are ready to agree a termination to allow the midfielder to become a free agent.

The former Spurs man has struggled for minutes at Fulham this season as Marco Silva's side continues to fly high in the Premier League.

A number of Championship clubs are ready to move for Onomah once he secures his release.

He was also on the radar of Rangers going into this window, with manager Michael Beale a big admirer of the midfielder.

Onomah has made just two appearances for Fulham since their return to the Premier League, with Silva preferring Palhinha and Harrison Reed in Fulham's usual two midfield roles.

He played 22 times last season for the Cottagers, which included eight Championship starts as the Londoners secured automatic promotion.

Onomah has made 76 appearances for Fulham signing from Tottenham in the summer of 2019.

He has also had spells on loan at Aston Villa, where he was a regular for a full season, and Sheffield Wednesday.

Onomah was on the verge of signing for West Brom on deadline day in the summer but the move collapsed at the eleventh hour.

This was due to paperwork arriving late to the relevant authorities.

Fulham sit seventh in the Premier League after winning nine of their 21 games this season.

The Cottagers are next in action against Chelsea on Friday (3 February).



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-josh-onomah-in-talks-to-terminate-fulham-deal-as-efl-clubs-circle/

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Fulham: Cottagers in talks to sign Sander Berge

Fulham have made contact with Sheffield United over Sander Berge and are now in talks to sign the midfielder this week, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Midfield priority
Marco Silva is believed to have made the midfield a priority position to strengthen this month, and it sounds like the Norwegian has been identified as an ideal target.

The Blades talisman's contract at Bramall Lane isn't set to expire until June 2024, but with the Yorkshire outfit currently under financial restrictions, they could be tempted to cash in before the Tuesday deadline.

The Latest: Fulham make contact over Berge
According to 90min, Fulham have 'reached out' to Sheffield United to enquire about a potential deal for Berge worth up to £20m. The Cottagers are 'keen to take advantage' of his club's transfer embargo but are set to face competition from Premier League rivals Newcastle United, who are also exploring a move.

Blades manager Paul Heckingbottom has confirmed claims that talks are being held with several potential suitors.

The Verdict: No-brainer
Berge has been dubbed an 'orchestrator' by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, and Fulham completing a deal for him before the deadline tomorrow night is a no-brainer of a decision to make.

The Adidas-sponsored player already has seven goal contributions to his name this season and currently ranks in the 95th percentile for dribbles completed per 90 minutes among positional peers in what FBref term 'Men's Next 8 Competitions' over the past 12 months.

Standing at 6 foot 5, Berge would also be able to add a different dimension to the midfield with his height, making him an ideal reinforcement in the middle of the park at Craven Cottage.



https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/fulham-fc-news/fulham-sander-berge-latest-transfer-news-rumours-updates/

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Napoli join Brighton, Fulham and Newcastle United in race for Sheffield United star

Napoli have reignited their interest in Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge, according to The Star.

The 24-year-old's future at Bramall Lane has become uncertain during the final couple of days of the transfer window despite the fact the player is happy to stay put for now.

With the Blades seemingly open to a sale though, Fulham are reportedly near to striking an agreement for the Norway international as they look to lure him back to the Premier League following an 18-month absence.

However, they aren't the only team believed to be in the race for him with Eddie Howe's Newcastle United also taking an interest, though they would reportedly prefer to seal a loan deal at this stage.

With Chelsea having a loan approach rejected in the summer, it seems unlikely that the Magpies will be able to recruit him unless they change their stance, though they are still believed to be in the race.

But they now face further competition from Italian outfit Napoli in the race for his signature, with the Serie A side now weighing up a potential approach ahead of tomorrow night's deadline along with Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Italian outfit were previously linked with Berge way back in the summer of 2021 – and have now seemingly reignited their interest.

The Verdict:
This could be another decent option for Berge but the player just needs to keep his focus on the Blades until a breakthrough is made in negotiations between United and an interested side.

You would imagine that the player won't be too heartbroken if a move doesn't materialise before the end of the month – because the Blades are currently in a strong position and the Norwegian could play a big part in guiding them back to the Premier League.

Although he will want to get to the top tier as quickly as possible, he has an opportunity to establish himself as an icon at Bramall Lane and may do so if he can secure a top-tier return with his current team.

Considering his poor injury record since signing for the club back in January 2020, it feels as though he owes the supporters the rest of this season before reassessing his options in the summer, when he will have just one year left.

Don't underestimate how attached he will be to the Blades as well – because he spent the Covid-19 pandemic with the club and will have grown a tight bond with his teammates in South Yorkshire.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/napoli-join-brighton-fulham-and-newcastle-united-in-race-for-sheffield-united-star/

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Fulham doctor has travelled to carry out medical – Silva's side have 'total agreement' with club

Fulham's ongoing pursuit to sign Torino's Saša Lukić in the January window has been progressing well so far.

Earlier on Monday, reports coming out of Italy stated the midfielder is one step away from joining the Premier League side.

It was also explained the 26-year-old has accepted the contract proposal made by Fulham, as they have offered him a deal worth €2.2m net per year until 2027.

Gianluca Di Marzio has now taken to Twitter to claim there is a 'total agreement' between Marco Silva's side and the Turin club for the transfer of the Serbia international. He further adds the player is set to undergo medical tests.

This is also echoed by Sky Italia in their transfer live blog, where they provide additional updates on this case.

It's claimed 'there will soon' be a medical examination of the midfielder in Turin and it will be carried out by a Fulham doctor, who is already in Italy.

Lukić's move to Fulham will see Torino earn €10m plus bonuses.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-doctor-travelled-for-players-medical-silvas-side-have-total-agreement-with-club-for-signing/

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Fulham linked with new midfielder who is out of contract at the end of this season

Latest news on the transfer front involving Fulham as they prepare for deadline day

Fulham are reportedly interested in FC Nordsjælland midfielder Jacob Steen Christensen. The Cottagers are being linked with a new name ahead of deadline day on Tuesday.

According to Italian news outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, Marco Silva's side are in the frame to land his signature. However, there is also believed to be clubs in Italy after him as well so there is competition.

Fulham could see the Denmark youth international as a long-term option in the heart of midfield. It has been no secret that the London club are in the hunt for reinforcements in that department before the end of the transfer window.

At the age of 21, Christensen has the potential to grow and develop in the future. He has been on the books at Nordsjælland for his whole career to date and has made 140 first-team appearances to date, chipping in with a single goal and nine assists.

His contract expires at the end of this season meaning his current club risk losing him for free this summer. They either need to sell him before tomorrow or try and agree terms on a new deal unless they could lose him for nothing.

In other news, the Daily Mail report that Newcastle United are keen on Fulham target Sander Berge at Sheffield United. However, Eddie Howe's side would prefer a loan deal.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-linked-with-new-midfielder-who-is-out-of-contract-at-the-end-of-this-season-4006442

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Fulham close to Sasa Lukic transfer but Cedric Soares issues remain with time running out

A battle with Newcastle could also loom for Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge before the deadline

Fulham are closing in on the £8.8million arrival of Sasa Lukic from Torino.

But the Cottagers still need to resolve issues around the signing of Arsenal right-back Cedric Soares.

Marco Silva said on Friday that he hopes Fulham will make two signings before the transfer window shuts and the club is targeting a midfielder and a right-back.

Lukic has agreed personal terms on a move to Craven Cottage and is expected to travel to London in the next 24 hours to finalise his switch.

A Serbia international, 26-year-old Lukic has impressed in Serie A this season and came through the same academy at Partizan Belgrade as Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Fulham also approached Sheffield United over a move for midfielder Sander Berge over the weekend. Berge is valued at around £20m and has also been linked with Newcastle.

Cedric is expected to move to Craven Cottage on a six-month deal with no option to make it a permanent move in the summer. Fulham boss Silva worked with Cedric at Sporting Lisbon and believes his experience and versatility will help the club build on their strong start to the season.

But Fulham remain reluctant to cover his wages in full. They have also already filled their allowed quota of two loans from rival Premier League clubs.

Fulham are considering cancelling their loan deal with Brighton for Shane Duffy to make room for Cedric in their squad. Dan James also remains at the club on loan from Leeds.

Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu have starved Cedric of action for Arsenal this season and he should get more game-time at in-form Fulham, who are seventh in the Premier League.

Monaco and several other European clubs have expressed an interest in Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo but he is now expected to stay put.

Fulham are also in talks to terminate Josh Onomah's contract to allow him to move to a Championship club on a free transfer, while West Brom are trying to sign Nathaniel Chalobah after offering him an 18-month deal.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-transfer-news-lukic-berge-cedric-latest-b1056553.html