Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 13/06/23...

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Fulham target Fiorentina defender Igor transfer to convince Marco Silva to stay long-term

Tosin Adarabioyo attracting interest from Inter Milan while Silva remains locked in contract talks

Fulham want to sign Fiorentina defender Igor to replace Tosin Adarabioyo and help convince manager Marco Silva to sign a new contract.

Igor is a left-sided centre back who played against West Ham in last week's Europa Conference League Final.

The 25-year-old has excelled in Serie A this season and Fiorentina are ready to cash in on him this summer.

Fulham view Igor as a long-term replacement for Adarabioyo, who is out of contract next summer and has interest from Inter Milan and other clubs.

Fulham's transfer activity and the retention of their best players are seen as crucial to convincing Silva to stay at Craven Cottage.

Silva guided Fulham to a 10th-placedf finish in the Premier League this season but remains locked in talks over a new deal.

His current contract expires at the end of next season and features a £6million release clause.

West Ham and Aston Villa want Joao Palhinha after his impressive first season in English football.

Silva insists the midfielder is not sold and wants Fulham to secure the signing of winger Manor Solomon on a permanent basis amid competition from Tottenham.

Willian's contract expires at the end of this month and there has yet to be a breakthrough in extension talks.

The 34-year-old is expected to snub interest from Saudi Arabian clubs but is also getting offers from clubs in Europe.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-transfer-news-igor-silva-adarabioyo-2023-b1087102.html

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Fulham: Cottagers interested in signing Igor Julio
The Fiorentina centre-back wants to leave this summer.

Fulham are interested in signing Fiorentina centre-back Igor Julio, who is keen to leave this summer, according to reports from Italy.

What's the latest Fulham transfer news?
Fulham will have their work cut out trying to keep hold of midfielder Joao Palhina this summer, with the Portugal international emerging as a target for multiple teams who have European football on offer, including West Ham United and Liverpool.

The Cottagers are looking at bringing in new options in midfield, having recently been linked with a move for former player Fabio Carvalho, although the Liverpool youngster will only be available on loan, while Wolfsburg's Patrick Wimmer is also a target.

There has been less talk about new defenders, perhaps in light of the respectable defensive record in the Premier League last season, however there have now been reports about a move for Igor.

According to reports from Italy (via Sport Witness), Fulham are showing an interest in the Fiorentina defender, who is keen to leave the Serie A side this summer, despite their progression to the Europa Conference League final last season.

The Brazilian is "one of the first candidates" who will leave the Italian club, as he wants to have a new experience outside of Italy, having been in the country since moving to SPAL in 2019.

As the defender's contract is set to expire next summer, Fiorentina will need to sell him this summer, in order to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Who is Igor Julio?
The 25-year-old has spent the vast majority of his career in Italy, across spells with SPAL and Fiorentina, however he first made a name for himself in Austria, totalling a combined 85 appearances during his time with Red Bull Salzburg, Wolfsberger AC, Austria Vienna and FC Liefering.

Journalist Alvaro Canibe has described the Fiorentina ace as "crazy", while also lauding him for the "incredible" levels of "security and reliability" that he has brought to his current club defensively.

Fiorentina had the joint-seventh best defensive record in the Serie A last season, with the £15k-per-week defender making a total of 27 appearances, and he ranks in the top 25% for blocks and tackles per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Igor could be a solid addition to the Fulham backline, having proven himself in the Serie A, and Marco Silva should now look to the take next step by lodging an official bid.




https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-igor-julio-transfer-news-updates-rumours/

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In profile: Demarai Gray

Jack Stroudley looks at our first credible rumour of the summer in finer detail.

Well, rumour mill is turning once again! Sky journalist Lyall Thomas reports that Fulham have approached Everton about winger Demarai Gray. As has become tradition over the last few transfer windows, I'll be looking into 'credible' rumours over the summer to see if they are a good fit, starting with Gray.

The fact file
Gray started his career at Birmingham City where he came through the youth system and made his professional debut aged 17. The former England U21 played 78 times for the Midlands side scoring eight times and was a standout player during the 5-2 drubbing of Fulham, which cost Kit Symons his job.

His good Championship performances caught the attention of Leicester City, who triggered his £3.7 million release clause. The Foxes 5000/1 Premier League title campaign and ventures in the Champions League meant that Gray's opportunities to break into the first team were few and far between. Despite spending five years at Leicester, Gray struggled to make an impact and was eventually shipped off to Bayer Leverkusen.

Gray once again failed to make an impact in Germany and was picked up by Everton in 2021, where he has featured on a semi regular basis playing 67 times and scoring nine goals.

A deeper dive
I'm sure you all know who Demarai Gray is, but when looking at him statistically, what kind of player would Fulham be getting? Gray features predominantly on the left wing for Everton and occasionally ventures forward to be a second striker dependant on the opposition. His stats for last season are certainly a mixed bag. Gray scored 100% of his penalties (2/2) during the 2022/23 campaign so could answer the penalty problem we currently face, he scored four goals in total despite having an xG of 6.33, suggesting he was wasteful in-front of goal.

Gray is also in the bottom 3% for progressive passes, bottom 5% for assists and despite averaging 2.05 shots per 90 minutes (slightly below average) he only averages 0.07 goals per 90 minutes (bottom 8%). His defensive work-rate is around average for a player in his position with 1.18 tackles per 90 minutes (just under average) and 0.65 clearances per 90 (top 30%)

Yes or no?
This one is a tricky one; is the inquiry into Gray suggesting that Kebano is not renewing his contract so added depth is needed? If so, at 26 bringing in someone whose played in the Premier League for a good amount of time isn't a bad pick-up and Silva has proven that he can get the best out of "uninspiring" signings with Pereira and Willian springing to mind. His age gives him scope to improve but I'm not convinced, he's failed to make a name for himself everywhere he's gone and I think we can do better.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-06-12-in-profile-demarai-gray/

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Sheffield Wednesday promotion hero and Spurs star amongst those at lavish wedding of Fulham stalwart

Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney tied the knot with long term girlfriend Abbie Richards this weekend and a number of professional footballers were in attendance.

Sheffield Wednesday star Josh Windass, Spurs man Ryan Sessegon and Hull City defender Cyrus Christie are just some of the footballing names who were in attendance at Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney's lavish wedding this weekend.

A luxury country house appeared to be the setting for the footballer's big day with flower-adorned tables looking over nature and none other than James Morrison recruited to perform and get the celebration underway.

The 32-year-old Premier League star has played for Hull City and Blackburn Rovers as well as Fulham across his 14-year professional career and had fellow players in attendance on his big day.

Cairney married long-term model girlfriend Abbie Richards. The two already have two children together in Aubrey and Brodie and both shared plenty of photos and videos from their special day.

Craven Cottage teammate Neeskens Kebano was seen throwing some moves on the dancefloor in an Instagram story while also posing for a photo alongside Cairney, Sessegnon and Christie.

Sheffield Wednesday man Josh Windass, who might have only just finished play-off celebrations after netting the winner at Wembley against Barnsley, also shared some snaps from the wedding on Instagram

Windass sang along with James Morrison, who he labelled the GOAT, and showed off a custom embroidered jacket as he donned his finery.

Cairney and Windass have never played for the same club, but the Owls man was born in Hull, where the Fulham star made his professional breakthrough. The two have worked together off the pitch when launching social media platform OPON last summer.



https://www.thestar.co.uk/sport/football/sheffield-wednesday/sheffield-wednesday-promotion-hero-and-spurs-star-amongst-those-at-lavish-wedding-of-fulham-stalwart-4179487

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Fixture Release Day: 3 Days To Go

Get ready for Fixture Release Day by syncing next season's fixtures directly to your calendar!

After Fulham's outstanding 2022/23 Premier League campaign, another season of top-flight action awaits.

There are less than 3 days to go until the Premier League fixtures for the 2023/24 season are released at 9am on Thursday 15th June and you can ensure you're staying up to date this coming season.

You can get all of Fulham's league fixtures added to your devices as soon as they are released - as well as any Cup tie announcements, fixture changes and ticket on sale dates throughtout the season.

SYNC CALENDAR

ECAL can also be used to sync calendars for the fixtures of Fulham FC Women and Fulham's PL2/Under 23 and Under 18 teams when they're released.

Make sure you're updated on all of the action!

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/june/12/fixture-release-day-3-days-to-go/

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"We're looking around" – Agent confirms Fulham target is moving this summer –

Fulham today get good news in their pursuit of Fiorentina defender Igor.

The player's departure from the Serie A side had already been expected by the local media, and that's now confirmed by his agent.

Interviewed by ViolaNews, Marcelo Mascagni made Igor's situation very clear.

"I spoke to Fiorentina about Igor's future and the intention is to leave in the summer. The Viola club is also in agreement. We haven't received any official offers yet, but we're looking around."

According to the same report, the price to take the Fulham target out of Fiorentina this summer is between €13m and 15m.

It was last week that the Whites were linked to Igor, with Corriere Dello Sport (via Fiorentina.it) also having a story saying the player is expected to leave La Viola.

There, it was claimed that Fulham have a 'strong interest' in the Brazilian, and with Fiorentina wanting him gone, it was only a matter of finding the 'right buyer' for him.

The Serie A side seem really focused on pushing Igor out this summer, and that can only be an advantage for Marco Silva's side to find a reasonable price for his signing.

Now since this is a recent rumour, we shall see if Fulham will actually move for the transfer.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/looking-around-agent-confirms-fulham-target-moving-summer/

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Fulham 'keen' on Everton man as Marco Silva hunts for attacking reinforcements

Fulham are preparing for another year in the Premier League and have the chance to bolster their ranks this summer when the window opens

Fulham are reportedly interested in Everton winger Demarai Gray this summer. The 26-year-old has emerged as a potential target for the London club ahead of the upcoming transfer window.

According to Sky Sports, the Whites are 'keen' to lure him down to Craven Cottage as they prepare for another year in the Premier League under Marco Silva. The report adds that they have 'inquired' about his availability and the Toffees' stance is 'unknown' at this moment in time

Fulham could see the Birmingham-born man has someone to further bolster their attacking department ahead of next term. He still has another 12 months left on his contract at Goodison Park and the Merseyside outfit hold an option to extend his stay by a further year on top of that too.

Gray moved to Everton in 2021 and has has since helped them avoid relegation to the Championship in both of his campaign at the club, scoring 12 goals in 75 games. Prior to his transfer there, he spent a year in Germany with Bayer Leverkusen but struggled to make much of an impact.

He started out at local side Birmingham City and found the net eight times in 78 outings as a youngster for the Midlands outfit. Leicester City then came calling and he stayed for five years with the Foxes, winning the title against the odds in his first.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/fulham/fulham-keen-on-everton-man-as-marco-silva-hunts-for-attacking-reinforcements-4179498

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Fulham lead Leicester in race to sign star who's just played in Euro final

Fulham are now leading Leicester City in the race to sign Fiorentina and Serie A defender Igor Julio after Dean Smith's side were relegated from the Premier League last month.

If the centre-half was hoping for an arm around the shoulder following La Viola's last-gasp defeat to West Ham United in the final of the UEFA Conference League last week, then he would have been severely disappointed.

But Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Italiano was clearly not in a forgiving mood; blasting Igor at full-time after the 25-year-old was left choking on Jarrod Bowen's dust. The West Ham forward racing onto Lucas Paqueta's beautifully-weighted through ball before sending untold gallons of Staropramen flying into the Prague sky

"Igor had just come on," Italiano sighs, via Sky Italia. "He was fresh, he could've run much, much faster than (Luca) Ranieri, who was exhausted when he came off. 

"I explained to him that he could've done much, much better in that situation. That's all it was. If we had been more focused, we would've gone to extra time."

Fulham could beat Leicester City to Igor Julio
If that is to be Igor's final act in a Fiorentina shirt, then it's hardly the way he'd have dreamed of bringing down the curtain.

The Standard report that Fulham are hoping to sign the former Atletico Mineiro starlet this summer. Igor's contract expires in 2024. The Cottagers reportedly see him as a replacement for Tosin Adarabioyo, also entering the final 12 months of his deal.

Adarabioyo came on leaps and bounds under Marco Silva during the final few months of last term but faces an uncertain future in West London. There is reportedly interest from Champions League runners-up Inter Milan in the former Manchester City graduate.

Tuttomercatoweb, meanwhile, back up reports of Fulham's pursuit of the 6ft 1ins Igor. The Cottagers are supposedly the 'hottest' club in the race, Leicester City's stance weakened by their relegation at the end of May.

Fulham are also keen on Romain Faivre, but face a battle hanging onto Joao Palhinha and Manor Solomon.

"I cannot see (Palhinha) being there next year," former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy tells talkSPORT. "You know when someone says they don't mean to offend, and then they immediately do!

"(But) I think a lot of big heads will be looking at him. He is reaching his potential, and he's a very, very good player."

"If Fulham get offered £50 million for him, they're going to take that," Cundy adds. "He is at the peak of his powers, as good as anyone.

"The only problem is he picks up a lot of bookings. He needs to somehow temper that. But everyone else about his game; closing down, winning challenges, scoring goals..."



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/06/12/fulham-lead-leicester-in-race-to-sign-star-whos-just-played-in-euro-final/

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Win a signed Fulham shirt and support the Paul Alan Project
Who wouldn't like to earn a piece of history from one of Fulham's finest top flight seasons? By participating in the Paul Alan Project's auction to raise much needed funds for defibrillators, you could win a signed shirt to ensure that you have memento to remember a wonderful Whites' season and support a superb charity raising funds in memory of a legendary Fulham fan.

The Paul Alan Project is a charity set up to help prevent more cardiac arrest deaths after the sad death of former Fulham steward and support Paul Parish. His family and friends – and several figures within English football – have come together to make lasting change in Paul's memory. The Fulham family have already shown their support but we must keep up the momentum in ensuring both that more defibrillators are available in public spaces and that we all know how to use them.

There are a number of special items available in the charity's latest auction – but for the Fulham faithful the signed shirt from the 2022/23 season will be of particular interest. You can view the listing and place your bid here. If you are able to give, the fantastic people behind this incredible initiative will appreciate your generosity.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/06/win-a-signed-fulham-shirt-and-support-the-paul-alan-project/

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Agent opens door for Fulham to sign £13m ace as he wants 'to leave'

The agent of Fiorentina defender Igor Julio admits he plans to leave the Serie A outfit with Fulham looking to bring the £13 million-rated Brazilian to the Premier League.

With Tosin Adarabioyo entering the final 12 months of his contract – and with The Standard reporting interest from Champions League finalists Inter Milan – the phrase 'fail to prepare, prepare to fail' comes to mind.

And no one could accuse Fulham of that.

The Cottagers see Igor as a replacement for Adarabioyo. The former, like the latter, will also become a free-agent in the summer of 2024.

Fiorentina want around £13 million, according to Viola News. And last week's heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to West Ham United in the UEFA Conference League final is now all-but certain to be Igor's final appearance in the iconic purple shirt.

Fulham lead race to sign Igor Julio from Fiorentina
"I spoke to Fiorentina about Igor's future," the 25-year-old's afgent, Marcelo Mascagni, tells Viola News. 

"And the intention is to leave in the summer. The Viola club is also in agreement. We haven't received any official offers yet, but we're looking around.

The Standard believe that Fulham are leading the race. There is interest from Leicester City too, though Dean Smith's side are not exactly negotiating from a position of strength after suffering relegation on a traumatic final day in May (Tuttomercatoweb).

Igor joined Fiorentina from SPAL back in 2019. The 6ft 1ins centre-half played over 40 games in 2022/23 alone, but was heavily criticised by Fiorentina boss Vincenzo Italiano after choking on Jarrod Bowen's dust in the build up to that 90th minute winner in Prague.

"Igor had just come on," Italiano sighs, via Sky Italia. "He was fresh, he could've run much, much faster than (Luca) Ranieri, who was exhausted when he came off.

"I explained to him that he could've done much, much better in that situation. That's all it was. If we had been more focused, we would've gone to extra time."

Fulham are also keen on Romain Faivre, but face a battle hanging onto Joao Palhinha and Manor Solomon.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/06/13/agent-opens-door-for-fulham-to-sign-13m-ace-as-he-wants-to-leave/

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Kieran's Fulham summer shortlist: Wingers
Wingers

Fulham have signed more wide men than players in any other position since Tony Khan took charge of the club's transfer policy in 2016 and the Whites could well be targeting even more wingers this summer. Dan James has returned to Elland Road after his loan spell and it remains to be seen whether we will have another year of Manor Solomon to enjoy at Craven Cottage. Cult hero Neeskens Kebano is out of contract at the end of the month and can Marco Silva conjure up another year of excellence from Willian?

Here are a few suggested additions out wide ...

Gustav Isaksen

Age: 22
Nationality: Danish
Club: FC Midtjylland
Position: Right winger
Value: £4.5m

The Hjerk-born wonderkid is set to leave FC Midtjylland this year with a host of top European clubs tracking his availability. The 22 year-old winger won the Danish title in 2020 and helped Midtjylland win the Danish Cup a year later. He has scored 33 goals in 136 appearances – as well contributing eighteen assists – since breaking into the first team aged only eighteen. Isaksen has Champions' League and Europa League experience, scoring twice against Lazio and also finding the net against Feyenoord this season.

The Hjerk-born wonderkid is set to leave FC Midtjylland this year with a host of top European clubs tracking his availability. The 22 year-old winger won the Danish title in 2020 and helped Midtjylland win the Danish Cup a year later. He has scored 33 goals in 136 appearances – as well contributing eighteen assists – since breaking into the first team aged only eighteen. Isaksen has Champions' League and Europa League experience, scoring twice against Lazio and also finding the net against Feyenoord this season.

Playing style:

* Rapid
* Loves to run with the ball at his feet
* Dangerous on the break

Strengths:

+ Vision and creativity
+ Makes intelligent runs beyond the opposition defence

Weaknesses:

– Keeping the ball

Jesper Karlsson

Age: 24
Nationality: Swedish
Club: AZ Alkmaar
Position: Left, right winger; second striker
Value: £12.5m

Fulham have already been linked with the Swedish international this summer – although this weekend brings further reports that Manchester United and Lazio are lining up a move for the 24 year-old. Karlsson scored thirteen goals and added eight assists in 33 appearances for AZ Alkmaar, who appear ready to cash in on the man they bought in from Elfsborg three years ago. A regular Eredivisie goalscorer, Karlsson's versatility can see him operate on either flank or as a striker.

Playing style;

* Likes to cut inside
* Lines up long range shots
* Plays lofted passes
* Consistent crosser

* Likes to cut inside

* Likes to shoot from distance

* Plays the ball off the ground

* Likes to cross

* Doesn't dive into tackles
Strengths:

Strengths:
+ Long shots
+ Set-piece specialist
+ Finishing
+ Crossing
+ Passing

Weaknesses:

+ Technical ability
+ Defensive diligence

Christian Pulisic

Age: 24
Nationality: American
Club: Chelsea
Position: Right Winger
Value: £25m.

Pulisic probably needs to leave Chelsea for the good his career after only starting nine games in their hilariously dire 2022/23 campaign. Fulham have revived the careers of plenty of former Stamford Bridge stalwarts, with Bjarne Goldbaek becoming a key player in Jean Tigana's promotion winning side two decades ago, and have also been a happy home for American talent in the past. Could they win a bidding war for the prodigiously-talented Pennsylvanian?

Playing style:

* Wins fouls frequently
* Loves to run with the ball at his feet
* Plays short passes
* Doesn't dive into tackles

Strengths:

+ Keeping the ball
+ Finishing
+ Long shots

Weaknesses:

– Passing
– Aerial ability
– Crossing
– Defensive work ethic

Lucas Moura

Age: 30
Nationality: Brazilian
Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Position: Right winger
Value: £7.5m

Given how Marco Silva got Willian rolling back the years so soon after he cancelled his Corinthians contract, you can see where I'm going with this one, can't you? Moura will be a free agent at the end of the month, and although his last season at Spurs was far from memorable, he hasn't become a bad player over night. He'd probably jump at the chance of proving himself again in the Premier League and would fit the profile of winger the Whites are looking for.

Playing style:

* Loves a dribble
* Wins fouls frequently
* Plays short passes
* Lays the ball off for team-mates

Strengths:

+ Aerial ability
+ Key passes
+ Dribbling

Weaknesses:

– Crossing

Kamaldeen Sulemana

Age: 21
Nationality: Ghanian
Club: Southampton
Position: Left winger
Value: £18.5m.

The Ghanaian winger arrived at St. Mary's in January but struggled to make an impression in his early months in English football – he was far from the only one who appeared inhibited by the grind of what ultimately proved an unsuccessful relegation battle. The 21 year-old, a consistent performer for Nordsjælland and Rennes, showed a tantalising glimpse of his potential in that crazy final day draw against Liverpool – and undoubtedly has the ability to shine in the top flight.

Playing style:

* Likes to dribble
* Likes to play long balls
* Likes to shoot from distance

Strengths:

+ Dribbling

Weaknesses:

– No significant weaknesses

Kerem Aktürko?lu

Age: 24
Nationality: Turkish
Club: Galatasaray
Position: Left winger
Value: £11.5m.

Statement:

Would be a very impactful player coming on from the bench.

Playstyle;

The Turkish international has been a regular source of goals, assists and creativity since breaking onto the domestic scene by scoring 20 goals in 34 games for Erzincanspor in a stunning 2019/20 campaign. He was voted the Super Lig's best left winger in his second season at Galatasaray, who helped lift the Turkish title in 2021/22. A dangerous dribbler with an ability to score from distance, Aktürko?lu may need to used off the bench initially but has the ability to make an impact in England.

* Gets fouled often

* Likes to cut inside

* Likes to dribble

* Doesn't dive into tackles

Strengths;

Playing style:
+ Plays lofted, through balls
+ An expert at unlocking defences
+ Loves a shot from long range
+ Likes to dribble
+ Through balls

+ Key passes

+ Long shots

+ Dribbling

Weaknesses:

– Aerial Duels
– Passing
– Keeping possession
– Defensive contribution

Diego Rossi

Age: 25
Nationality: Uruguayan
Club: Fenerbahce
Position: Left winger; right winger; attacking midfielder; striker
Value: £10m

The versatile Uruguayan international has enjoyed a couple of excellent seasons with Fener, who he helped to Turkish Cup success last term, after establishing himself as one of the stars of the MLS during his time with Los Angeles FC. The winger, who can operate right across the forward line and also as a number ten, would provide quality depth in a number of positions and is a serial winner with still untapped potential having won back-to-back titles with Peñarol after breaking into the senior side aged just 17.

Playing style:

* Leads counter attacks with pace
* Plays short passes
* Cuts inside frequently

Strengths* Doesn't dive into tackles

Strengths;

+ Passing

Strengths:

+ A consistent creator of chances
+ Retaining possession
+ Finishing

Weaknesses:

– Defensive contribution
– Tackling

Tete

Age: 23
Nationality: Brazilian
Club: Shakhtar Donetsk,
Position: Right winger
Value: £21m

Who wouldn't love a pair of Tete's on the right flank? The Brazilian winger is in a similar situation to Manor Solomon as he ponders his next move having moved to Leicester after taking advantage of the FIFA ruling to escape the Russian invasion of Ukraine only for the Foxes to go down on a frantic final day. He won back-to-back league titles with Shakhtar as well as the Ukrainian Cup and scored the opening goal before setting up Solomon as the Miners' stunning Real Madrid in the Champions' League in 2020. He enjoyed two eye-catching loan spells with Lyon before scoring once in fourteen games at the King Power.

Would love the two Tete's on the right

Playing style:

* Loves to cut inside
* Consistent crosser

Strengths:

+ Finishing
+ Passing

Weaknesses:

– Aerial ability

Gabriel Strefezza

Gabriel Strefezza

Age: 25
Nationality: Brazilian
Club: Lecce
Position: Right winger
Value: £8.5m

Another brilliant Brazilian with plenty of flair, Strefezza has helped both SPAL and Lecce win promotion to the Italian top flight in recent years and didn't look out of place in Serie A with the Wolves last season, scoring nine goals and adding seven assists in a strong campaign. He has spent his entire senior career in Italy having come through the Corinthians youth set up and could be a bit of a bargain if the Whites are seeking depth on the right flank.

Playing style:

Playstyle;

* Plays the ball off the ground often

* Long ball specialist
* Wins frequent fouls
* Roams inside
* Shoots from long range
* Tenacious tackler

Strengths:

Strengths;

+ Through balls
+ Tackling
+ Finishing

Weaknesses:

– Holding onto the ball
– Aerial ability
– Passing



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/06/kierans-fulham-summer-shortlist-wingers/

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Ex-Sunderland and Fulham man to become free agent after Bordeaux fan assault in Ligue 2

The former Sunderland striker is set to become a free agent.

Former Sunderland striker Josh Maja, 24, is set to become a free agent after it was confirmed last night that French club Bordeaux will remain in Ligue 2 next season

The controversial decision by the football authorities in France saw Bordeaux slam the Ligue del Football Professionnel (LFP) for handing them a defeat in their final-day match against Rodez.

The match was initially suspended after a fan assaulted an opposing player on the pitch, which means that Les Girondins will be forced to play Ligue 2 football once again next season. Metz are instead being promoted to Ligue 1 in their place.

Bordeaux needed to better Metz's result on the final day in order to secure a return to France's top flight but went behind against Rodez in the early stages of the first-half before a supporter then entered the pitch and pushed goalscorer Lucas Buades.

The player was then taken off on a stretcher before it was announced that the match would not be restarted with the authorities then making the decision to declare Rodez the winners of the match.

Bordeaux had the option to extend Maja's deal if they won promotion to Ligue 1 at the end of the 2022-23 season but now, the former Sunderland, Stoke City and Fulham man is free to leave this summer amid transfer interest from Rangers.

A Bordeaux statement read: "The disciplinary commission of the LFP today issued a decision that is as incomprehensible as it is disproportionate, both in view of the elements of the file and the case law.

"FC Girondins de Bordeaux will contact the CNOSF [French National Olympic and Sport Committee] as soon as possible to defend its rights and sporting fairness.



https://www.sunderlandecho.com/sport/football/sunderland-afc/josh-maja-to-become-free-agent-after-bordeaux-fan-assault-in-ligue-2-4180136

[WhiteJC]

Building for Premier League stability, part 1: goalkeepers

In a four-part series analysing Fulham's options going forward, George Rossiter assesses our squad as we look to build on a brilliant first season back in the Premier League. In part one, we look into the goalkeeping department.

Who do we have?
For much of the 2022/23 season, the three travelling goalkeepers were often Bernd Leno, Marek Rodak and George Wickens. We are lucky to be in a position where there is absolutely zero debate on who our first choice goalkeeper is. Bernd Leno had a wonderful first season in a Fulham shirt, outperforming almost every goalkeeper in the country, especially when comparing the difference between the expected conceded goals and actual goals conceded figures for the season. Data shows that Leno's 49 goals conceded in the Premier League was nine lower than his expected goals conceded figure of 58, that is a staggering statistic that only backs up the praise he's received this season, especially from the stands at Craven Cottage.

Marek Rodak has once again had to settle for being second choice in the Premier League with very limited appearances across all competitions. We know he has quality but some of his FA Cup showings showed what a lack of game time can do for a player. He didn't look confident or assertive, and may consider a move away this summer if he's not happy playing second fiddle for another year. His two promotions in his two senior seasons at the club will look good on the CV if Rodak was to look for a move elsewhere. Into his mid-20s now and with Martin Dubravka not getting any younger, Rodak also has an international career with Slovakia to consider...

What do we need?
What Fulham needs depends on any outgoings. Our goalkeeper pool is a big one, but there's no guarantees that any of the names playing senior football, other than Bernd Leno, are going to still be at the club beyond this summer. There's a strong chance that Fulham will end up needing to sign a back-up to Leno, and whether they're willing to spend money on such a position is up for debate. Furthermore, if interest in George Wickens continues to show itself, promoting a third choice from within the academy to travel with the squad on matchdays may also be required.

Who's coming back from loan?
After a season of generally being number two to Marek Rodak in the Championship, with just 13 appearances to his name in the 21/22 title-winning season, Paulo Gazzaniga has rediscovered himself in La Liga.

The 31 year old has spent most of the season as Girona's number one and has performed admirably, with Girona putting up a strong fight for European football just a year after being promoted through the promotion play-offs, after finishing sixth in the second tier of Spanish football. Reports – and Paulo himself – claim a permanent deal's already been agreed, though Fulham have remained typically quiet on the topic. Regardless, Paulo has certainly made a good impression at the Estadio Municipal de Montilivi.

Meanwhile, the Ashby-Hammond brothers have had varied loan spells this season. At Stevenage, Taye played 26 times, conceding just 18 goals (just under 0.7 goals per game) and keeping 12 clean sheets. He played a huge role in the club's automatic promotion push that saw Stevenage finish second and consequently promoted to League One. Meanwhile, younger brother Luca struggled with Aldershot in the National League, with the Shots just avoiding relegation to the sixth tier. Luca conceded 74 goals in 45 games (1.64 goals per game), keeping eight clean sheets in a tough first senior loan.

Academy prospects
21 year old George Wickens is seen as a big prospect in the Fulham ranks. After an impressive first loan spell in the 2021/22 season with Wealdstone, Wickens earned many plaudits within the National League while playing alongside fellow Fulham youngster Connor McAvoy. His progression has continued internally this season, with 14 appearances for Fulham's U21s as well as travelling frequently with the first team, providing support for Leno and Rodak on matchdays. Wickens has been linked to a few clubs this summer, including Luton, Nottingham Forest and Southampton.

Alex Borto is the other notable academy goalkeeper. The American stopper, who has twice represented his country at under 20s level, has impressed since originally joining the under 18 setup. With nine9 appearances in the Premier League 2 this season, Borto has got his fair share of U21s experience in the 2022/23 season and will look forward to continuing to progress through the ranks at Fulham.

Final assessment
Fulham will want three good options to travel with to each Premier League matchday. If this season is anything to go by, Marco Silva will want a top quality number one that will play basically every week. Well, we're very lucky to have that in Bernd Leno. But for the other two positions, who knows? This year the club has often had a reliable number two in Rodak, as well as a promising academy option, which has often been the previously mentioned George Wickens.

Our back-up goalkeeper depth on paper could be amazing. Gazzaniga, Rodak and even Taye Ashby-Hammond look like capable options. The issue is, there's no guarantee any are at the club next year. Rumour is that Stevenage are very keen on keeping Taye on a permanent basis as they move into League One, similarly Girona looks like the new permanent home of Gazzaniga. Then there's the question of Rodak's future, does he stay or does he go? If he stays, it solves a big problem, if he goes, a gap will need filling.

The club are unlikely to want to spend on a back-up goalkeeper, so free transfers may be considered. Options that are out of contract this summer include Loris Karius at Newcastle, Joel Robles at Leeds and Andrey Lunev at Bayer Leverkusen. Then attention turns to the third keeper. Whether it be a permanent deal or another loan, Wickens is unlikely to spend another year as the U21 keeper at the club, so it wouldn't be a surprise to see Alex Borto travel with the squad at times in 2023/24, or even Luca Ashby-Hammond if he decides to stay put and be third choice at the age of 22.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-06-13-building-for-premier-league-stability-part-1-goalkeepers/

[WhiteJC]

Report: Demarai Gray considering Everton future; Fulham remain interested

Demarai Gray is reportedly considering a move away from Everton after falling down the pecking order.

The winger had established himself as a regular for the Toffees in the early stages of the season, netting a memorable equaliser against Nottingham Forest and Manchester City. However, Gray has found his opportunities limited since Sean Dyche's arrival in January.

The Daily Mail have claimed that he could be open to an exit as he looks to pick up regular game time.

The 26-year-old wants to establish where he stands at the club before making a decision on his future.

Gray is on a list of targets for Fulham ahead of their second successive campaign in the top flight, according to Sky Sports.

The forward could bolster the Cottagers' attack, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that Willian is yet to sign a new contract. Meanwhile, Manor Solomon and Daniel James have returned to their parent clubs.

Gray's contract is set to expire next summer but the Toffees have the option of extending it by a further year.

Everton only paid £1.7 million for the attacker two years ago and could look to make a profit this summer.

Everton can't afford to weaken their attack
Everton desperately need rid of their dead wood. However, parting ways with Gray seems like another poor move.

Gray won't turn the Toffees' fortunes around, yet he looked to be the spark of life that they needed on a number of occasions last season.

It may not be up to them if he demands to leave, in which case Everton should look to bring in a replacement before offloading.

Everton could allow Ellis Simms to leave with the Northern Echo claiming that Sunderland remain eager to bring him back to Wearside.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Neal Maupay could be left as their only two options up top, with the pair scoring three goals in the Premier League last time out.

The trio netted four goals in the Premier League between them last term – the same as Gray bagged on his own.



https://www.everton.news/demarai-gray-considering-everton-future-fulham-interested/

[WindyCity]

Just curious.  Why all the interest in Gray?  Just read his bio, not impressive at all.  I would think we could do much better?