Sunday Fulham Stuff - 02/07/23...

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Celebrating two decades of covering Fulham
We have never been about self promotion but we wanted to thank our friends, readers and colleagues on the twentieth anniversary of our launch back in 2003. Nick and I started the planning for this website – initially a bilingual operation – in his Stockholm apartment after the success of a few articles I wrote for SvenksaFans back in my schooldays. In 2003, with trust in the club's official communications at a low ebb after the Fulham River Projects cover-up, there wasn't a website written by the fans, for the fans.

We launched hammyend.com to allow Fulham's growing international fanbase to have a place to read all the latest news from Craven Cottage. Our aim was to was to produce a website written by the fans, for the fans. We also wanted to be professional and adhere to the strictest standards of journalism – producing content that our readers could rely on. We weren't sure whether we'd last until the end of Chris Coleman's first full season in charge but the response was incredible from the off.

Fan media is now all-consuming. The traditional blog seems somewhat old hat and there are new plenty of places to get your Fulham fix. Covering the club has become a labour of love, but one we remain committed to. It will be a bit more difficult to do over the forthcoming season as some of our contributors have been priced out of purchasing season tickets, but we are determined to keep going – especially in memory of one of our earliest supporters, the frank and fearless Danny Fullbrook. We are proud to have supported the journalism careers of so many young Fulham fans and appreciate the fantastic feedback our move into podcasting, through The Green Pole, received last season.

We were delighted to be able to cover Fulham FC Women last season and carry interviews with a number of players and the coaching staff as the side played their first fixture at Craven Cottage in two decades. Fulham were the first female professional club in England and, as the Lionesses have showed over the last couple of years, women's football is thriving. We'll continue to give Steve Jaye's superb side the status they deserve – right here on our front page.

We must finish with a series of thank yous. Thank you to the people who believed in us from the very beginning. Thank you to everyone who has written for us. Thank you to those of who have joined in the conversation, be that in the comments or across social media. Thank to the players, coaches and staff at Fulham Football Club for giving us so much to cover – and to those of you that have gone out of their way to assist, even with the smallest things.

It has been a privilege to chronicle the last twenty years at London's oldest professional football club. If anyone wants to help us cover the next twenty, please don't hesitate to get in touch.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/celebrating-two-decades-of-covering-fulham/

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Fulham Midfielder's Price Tag Causing A Stir at West Ham
West Ham's search for a suitable replacement for Arsenal-bound Declan Rice has landed them squarely at the doorsteps of Fulham, home of their top target – the Portuguese international Joao Palhinha. Yet, the price tag set by Fulham could put a serious dent in West Ham's aspirations, according to information shared by Football Insider.

Joao Palhinha: The Cottagers' Prize Asset
Palhinha, a standout performer in the 2022-23 Premier League campaign, arrived at Craven Cottage with a modest price tag of £20 million. A season later, and the London outfit are eyeing a massive profit on the Portuguese midfielder. A price tag of £60 million is being mooted – a sum that would smash West Ham's transfer record should they pursue the deal. The Portugal international still has four years left on his contract with Fulham, which places the club in a strong bargaining position.

The Impact of Declan Rice's Departure
Declan Rice, a mainstay in West Ham's midfield, is on the brink of a £105 million move to Arsenal. With Rice's departure imminent, the Hammers are now tasked with finding a replacement before the 2023-24 season kicks off. The 24-year-old's departure creates a vacuum at the heart of West Ham's midfield, which they believe Palhinha is well suited to fill.

Palhinha's Sterling Season
With four goals in 40 appearances across all competitions, Palhinha's maiden season in England was not extraordinary in terms of goal return. However, it's his impressive tackling and interception stats that have turned heads, with West Ham notably among the admirers.

Yet, it's not just the Hammers who have been keeping tabs on Palhinha's situation. Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United and even Bayern Munich have been monitoring the midfielder following his successful debut season in the English top flight. However, it appears that these top-tier clubs have cooled their interest and have turned to alternative targets, leaving the path clear for West Ham.

The Financial Side of the Deal
A weekly wage of £50,000 for Palhinha would be manageable for West Ham, but it's the £60 million transfer fee which may throw a spanner in the works. Fulham's valuation of the player could force West Ham to rethink their strategy.

A Pivotal Time for West Ham
After securing their place in the Europa League, following a victorious Europa Conference League campaign, the 2023-24 season promises to be an exciting one for West Ham. The pressure is on to bolster their squad, yet, despite the departures of Manuel Lanzini and Arthur Masuaku, they remain without a new summer signing.

Whether the Hammers decide to pay up for Palhinha or look elsewhere, it is clear that their actions in this summer's transfer window will have a significant impact on their fortunes in the upcoming season. Fulham's £60 million valuation of Palhinha might prove to be a stumbling block, but it remains to be seen how this transfer saga will unfold.



https://eplindex.com/91066/fulham-midfielders-price-tag-causing-a-stir-at-west-ham.html

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Possible implications if Tottenham poaches Fulham loanee
A dormant rumour has resurfaced, with Tottenham still interested in Fulham loanee Manor Solomon.

Solomon is under permanent contract at Shakhtar Donetsk until Dec. 31, 2023, but a recent FIFA ruling permits all Ukraine-based players the right to suspend their contracts for a further year.

The year suspension will extend past his contractual obligations, allowing Tottenham and other suitors to land him on a free transfer this summer.

That specific FIFA clause is referred to as Annex 7.

Sufficed it to say, Shakhtar Donetsk is not best pleased about Annex 7 or Tottenham's attempts to court Solomon.

The giants of Ukrainian football have threatened legal action on any team that poaches one of their players, and Shakhtar Donetsk chief executive Sergei Palkin recently called out Tottenham, warning them against pursuing Solomon.

The specifics of the potential lawsuit are thus far vague, but restitution, probably amounting to the player's worth, will be at the crux. According to Transfermarkt, Solomon is worth €18 million, so nothing to snuff at.

I'm sure Tottenham's legal team will do their due diligence before attempting to snatch Solomon for free off the open market.

One thing is for sure. Any legal battle would be dragged out in court for as long as the last time Spurs won a trophy, so Tottenham's top brass shouldn't be too concerned about the potential financial penalty.

For the ninth-most valuable club in the world, any restitution would probably be tantamount to a feeble slap on the wrist.

With that said, should Soloman be a player of interest for Tottenham? As a free transfer, you better believe it.

The Israeli international (seven goals in 35 appearances) endured a tough start to life in the top flight, suffering a knee injury that kept him out of the side for an extended spell.

Solomon found his groove after the World Cup, scoring in five straight. That five-match stretch represented the only goals of his 24 appearances in all competitions. Despite his somewhat uninspiring goal return, Solomon can impact proceedings from an advanced position on the left side.

In terms of accolades, he became the first Israeli to score in three straight Premier League matches since Ronnie Rosenthal for Liverpool in 1992.

He is only 23 years old and has a few seasons before entering the prime of his career. Solomon would definitely be a squad player if he signed for Tottenham, at least from the onset of his tenure.

Maybe most importantly, he's outrageously affordable. The free transfer is, well, free. And here I am, believing nothing in this world is free.

Combine that nugget with his comparatively measly salary (£20,000 weekly at Fulham), and you have yourselves an irrefutably desirable candidate; it sounds like an episode of The Bachelor, not that I've ever watched it...



https://hotspurhq.com/2023/07/01/possible-implications-tottenham-poaches-fulham-loanee/

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Fulham end Aaronsen interest
Fulham will not be following up their interested in loaning the Leeds United midfielder Brenden Aaronsen, according to this morning's Daily Mail.

The Whites had made enquiries as to the availability of the American international, who has a clause in his contract allowing him to leave Elland Road on loan following Leeds' relegation to the Championship. But the Whites, who would have to pay the 22 year-old's full salary under the terms of the release clause, have decided not to make an offer for Aaronsen and are considering other targets.

Aaronsen is now in discussions with Bundesliga sides including last season's surprise package Union Berlin, according to the Daily Telegraph.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/fulham-end-aaronsen-interest/

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Fulham inching closer to Aarons deal
Fulham are leading the race to sign Norwich City full back Max Aarons, according to the Daily Telegraph's Mike McGrath.

The Whites are seeking competition for Kenny Tete, who had an outstanding season at right back as Fulham returned to the top flight in some style – upending the pre-season predictions by finishing tenth under Marco Silva. Aarons, who is likely to move on this summer after spending seven years at Carrow Road, could be available for around £10m and McGrath has tweeted this morning that there are signs of a deal between the clubs emerging.

No move will be completed under Aarons has completed his international duties with England's under 21s, who have so far won all three of their group games at the European Championships in Georgia. The 23 year-old is thought to attracted by a return to the capital having been born in Hammersmith and would add depth to what has been a problem position for the Cottagers having established himself as one of the most consistent full backs in the Championship. He has made 213 appearances for Norwich, scoring six goals, and won two titles with the Canaries.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/fulham-inching-closer-to-aarons-deal/

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Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo

Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo

According to Football. London, Tottenham Hotspur are eager to bolster their defensive options ahead of the upcoming season, and one player who has caught their attention is Fulham's towering centre-back, Tosin Adarabioyo.

Standing at an imposing 6ft 5 inches, the 25-year-old has reportedly been on Spurs' radar for some time now, and the club is considering making a move for him in the summer transfer window.

Adarabioyo's impressive distribution skills make him an ideal candidate for Ange Postecoglou's defensive unit. His ability to pick out accurate long-range passes and initiate attacking moves from the back would add a new dimension to Tottenham's playing style.

With his technical abilities and composure on the ball, Adarabioyo could be a valuable asset in building attacks from deep areas. Despite Fulham's rather mixed season, Tosin Adarabioyo showcased his quality throughout the season.

His commanding presence in the heart of defence and aerial prowess made him a standout performer for the Cottagers. For Adarabioyo, the opportunity to join a club like Tottenham Hotspur would undoubtedly be an enticing prospect.

Although Spurs missed out on European qualification this season, they still boast an ambitious project under the guidance of a top-quality manager in Ange Postecoglou. Tottenham will do well to sign a player like Adarabioyo.

While Tottenham have been linked with other defensive targets such as Edmond Tapsoba and Micky van de Ven, both players could come at a hefty price tag. Adarabioyo, on the other hand, presents an appealing option due to his contractual situation.

Moreover, Adarabioyo's experience in the Premier League adds another layer of appeal. Having already adapted to the demands and intensity of English football, he could seamlessly slot into Tottenham's backline without requiring a lengthy adjustment period.



https://tothelaneandback.com/2023/07/01/tottenham-hotspur-are-keen-on-signing-fulham-defender-tosin-adarabioyo/

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Spurs now eyeing 'special' 27-year-old star; but PL rival have set £90m asking price
Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Joao Palhinha as Ange Postecoglou seemingly sets his sights on strengthening his midfield options this summer.

That is according to a report from The Sun (1/7; page 67), which suggests that West Ham are also admirers of the Portuguese following his outstanding first year in the Premier League.

Joao Palhinha was a revelation for Fulham, helping Marco Silva's men register a top-half finish in their first year back in the Premier League.

Tottenham keen on Joao Palhinha
Unsurprisingly, the Cottagers have no interest in letting Palhinha leave. In fact, previous reports from the Daily Mail have suggested that Fulham have set a staggering £90 million asking price.

But there is interest. And according to The Sun (1/7; page 67), Tottenham and West Ham are keen on signing Palhinha.

West Ham, of course, are gearing up the departure of their most important player, it seems. Meanwhile, Tottenham could also experience some changes in this window.

Journalist Dean Jones told Chasing The Transfer that he expects Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to leave Tottenham. And it would surely be a surprise if the likes of Giovani Lo Celso and Tanguy Ndombele were in Ange Postecoglou's ranks next season.

But you would imagine that Tottenham would have absolutely no interest in paying £90 million for Palhinha. He has been a 'special' signing for Fulham. But he is one year into his Premier League career. And he turns 28 this month.

Tottenham should be looking to sign players at their peak. But if they are going to smash their transfer record, it is surely going to be on a slightly younger player.

Certainly, if Spurs are going to step up their interest in Palhinha, you would imagine that the asking price would need to drop by some way.



https://tbrfootball.com/spurs-now-eyeing-special-27-year-old-star-but-pl-rival-have-set-90m-asking-price/

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Fulham's Contract Snub: Star's Hunt for a New Club Begins
The Uncertain Path Ahead: Willian's Search for a New Premier League Home
Willian: The Road So Far
As per reports from The Standard, it appears that 33-year-old Willian is ready to sever his ties with Fulham FC. The Brazil international, whose contract with the club was due to lapse last night, has reportedly declined Fulham's one-year contract extension proposal. It's not a decision that he has taken lightly, given his affinity for Craven Cottage and his desire to continue his football journey in England.

Negotiations Stall at Fulham
The seeds of Willian's departure were sown in the negotiation room. Fulham, it seems, were reluctant to revise the terms of their offer, which Willian and his representatives found less than satisfactory. The inability to strike a mutually agreeable deal has set the wheels in motion for Willian's exit from the club that welcomed him back to English shores just last season.

Impact on Fulham
The implications of this development are not lost on the Cottagers. Willian's decision not to renew his contract represents a significant setback for Fulham. His departure will leave a void in the team's fabric, and his contributions on the field will undoubtedly be missed.

Looking Forward: The Hunt for a New Club
Unperturbed by the turn of events, Willian is directing his energies toward securing a place with other Premier League outfits. He's a seasoned player, having graced the field in numerous prestigious tournaments and leagues, making him an attractive proposition for many clubs. With his proven record, he is poised to make an immediate impact wherever he goes.

It's clear that Willian is keen to continue plying his trade in the English top-flight league. As such, his representatives have already initiated discussions with potential suitors. Only time will reveal where the Brazilian playmaker will end up, but it's a sure bet that he will be donning a new Premier League jersey when the next season kicks off.

A New Chapter Begins
For Willian, it's the start of a new chapter in his football career, even as he parts ways with Fulham. One thing is certain: with his skill, experience, and unwavering commitment to the game, he will be a valuable addition to any team he joins. As we await further news, we wish Willian all the best in his quest for a new Premier League home.



https://eplindex.com/91082/fulhams-contract-snub-stars-hunt-for-a-new-club-begins.html

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No Fulhamerica resurrection! Cottagers reject chance to sign USMNT & Leeds' Brenden Aaronson amid Bundesliga interest
Fulham have seemingly decided to go against their own recent history by turning down the opportunity to sign a US international in Brenden Aaronson.

    Fulham have rich history of American stars
    Release clause allows loan move on full salary
    Aaronson now destined for Germany

WHAT HAPPENED? After relegation with Leeds United, USMNT international Brenden Aaronson is available on loan to a club willing to pay his salary. Fulham, who have a rich history of signing American players, were reportedly weighing up triggering the clause but have now decided to move on to other targets.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Aaronson's future now seems set to be in Germany, where Champions League football may be on offer with last season's surprise package Union Berlin, according to The Telegraph.

DID YOU KNOW?: Fulham currently have two Americans in their ranks in Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson. The pair are the latest in a line of Stateside recruits that have starred for the west Londoners including Brian McBride, Carlos Bocanegra and Clint Dempsey.

WHAT NEXT FOR BRENDEN AARONSON? Aaronson helped his country to win a feisty CONCACAF Nations League against Mexico last month but was omitted from the squad for the Gold Cup.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/fulhamerica-resurrection-cottagers-usmnt-leeds-brenden-aaronson-bundesliga/blte180238a62978065

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Decordova-Reid discussing new deal with Fulham
Bobby Decordova-Reid is likely to put pen to paper on a new long-term contract with Fulham after positive early discussions with the club.

The Daily Telegraph reports that the Premier League side are ready to reward the former Bristol City forward with a longer deal after triggering the 12-month extension option in his previous contract last season. The 30 year-old, currently at the Gold Cup with Jamaica, has been a regular in the Fulham side since Marco Silva took over from Scott Parker exactly two years ago today.

Decordova-Reid has impressed Silva with his versatility, having filled in at right back when Kenny Tete got injured earlier last season, and played all across the forward line with great effect as the Whites finished tenth on their return to the top flight. He made 28 starts and forty appearances in total last term – weighing in with five goals – and is eager to the commit his future to the club.

Decordova-Reid has made 142 appearances for Fulham, scoring 21 goals, since moving from Cardiff City – initially on loan – in August 2019.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/decordova-reid-discussing-new-deal-with-fulham/

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Exclusive: Reasons behind Willian Fulham exit revealed as London rivals look to take advantage
TEAMtalk can reveal the reasons behind Willian's exit at Fulham, with the player's contract at Craven Cottage expiring without an extension being agreed.

The 34-year-old Brazilian enjoyed an excellent campaign with the Cottagers, proving an astute addition by Marco Silva. Eyebrows were raised when the Portuguese tactician brought the veteran star back to London from Corinthians.

Despite struggling at Arsenal prior to returning to his homeland, Willian rolled back the years with a series of fine displays. He played a leading role as Fulham comfortably avoided the drop, ultimately finishing 10th.

And his 10 goal involvements (five goals and five assists) from 40 appearances were major pluses for the Cottagers.

However, the one-year deal he signed at Craven Cottage last year lapsed on Friday. And while talks over an extension were held, the two parties were not able to reach an agreement on extension.

TEAMtalk can now reveal that Fulham's refusal to give Willian a two-year deal is the reason behind that failure to agree an extension.

Indeed, while Silva's side were keen to keep Willian on board, they were seemingly only willing to offer another 12-month deal.

As a result, Willian has officially on Saturday become a free agent and free to fix himself up with another club of his choosing.

TEAMtalk understands that Willian wants to remain in England, and in particular, London, where his family are extremely settled.

And we can reveal that one of the clubs who are keen are Crystal Palace, who could now step in and pick up the experienced 70-times capped international on a free.

If Willian completes the move to Selhurst Park, the Eagles will be the fourth capital club he has represented in the Premier League.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/exclusive-reasons-behind-willian-fulham-exit-revealed-london-rivals-look-to-take-advantage

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Fulham interested in AS Roma's Brazilian defender Roger Ibanez
Although strong interests and conversations from Fulham for Igor Júlio had already been reported, it seems that the order of priorities has changed: now the Fiorentina player is considered option B, while the primary name for the board would be Roger Ibáñez, defender of AS Roma. This is reported by Lorenzo Lepore, an Italian journalist.

The London club, in view of the possible departure of Tosin Adarabioyo and the severe injury to Tim Ream, would only have Issa Diop for the start of the season, which is why it is urgent to reinforce the central defense. Likewise, it is essential to find a footballer whose characteristics are ideal for Marco Silva, who has participated in one of the defenses with the highest xGOT overperformance rate (goals conceded in relation to expected goals conceded), conceding 11.5 fewer goals than expected.

Roger Ibáñez emerges as Fulham's priority option
Roma values the Brazilian at around €17M, or at least that's what they indicated to Tottenham, who also showed interest in Ibáñez a few days ago. In this sense, incorporating a Europa League finalist who has been scouted by higher-level clubs would have a positive impact on the cottager squad. In addition, taking into account that Roger would feel good at the club since he does not suffer too much when it comes to going back, and he is a leader in sticking out his foot and stealing balls to the limit.

The South American, although he has been erratic at many times, has had a good season under the command of José Mourinho. His height makes him superior in the air, which is why he has scored three goals in Serie A among his 33 appearances, being one fundamental piece.

His only obstacle when assessing him as a central defender is his concentration, only 6% of the central defenders in the five major leagues make more control errors than him (0.83 per game), and he is second (tied with third and fourth ) defender who made the most errors that lead to goals in Serie A, with a total of two.

Despite being statistics of sporadic relevance, they are the ones that prohibit him from levelling up, added to the fact that his contributions with the ball do not deviate from the rule. However, his forte is solidity and forcefulness, something that Fulham may need throughout the season.



https://thetopflight.com/2023/07/01/fulham-roma-brazilian-defender/

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Palace plan to poach Willian
Crystal Palace are planning to poach Willian after the Brazilian winger rejected Fulham's offer of a new contract, according to Teamtalk.

The 34 year-old former Chelsea and Arsenal wide man is talking to other Premier League clubs after being unimpressed with Fulham's proposed one-year deal with an option for a further twelve months. Willian felt the quality of his performances since moving to Craven Cottage in September merited a longer contract and he will not be short of offers from English sides. Willian has told the press in homeland that he would be open to staying in SW6 were the Whites to return with a more attractive proposal, but Marco Silva now has to plan for the forthcoming season without a player who became talismanic last term.

Willian, who cancelled his Corinthians contract after receiving death threats, scored five goals and contributed six assists in thirty appearances for the Cottagers, who finished tenth on their return to the top flight and reached the quarter finals of the FA Cup. The veteran winger has authorised his representatives to open negotiations with other interested parties, although he wants to remain in England.

Former Fulham manager Roy Hodgson waxed lyrical about Willian's display in the Whites 3-0 win at Palace on Boxing Day when he was working as a pundit for BT Sport and he is now keen to sign the Brazilian international. The Eagles would offer Willian the chance to stay in London and the prospect of regular Premier League football.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/palace-plan-to-poach-willian/

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Silva rejects another Al-Hilal approach
Fulham head coach Marco Silva has rejected another lucrative offer to become the new manager of Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, according to reports from Portugal.

Both TVI and CNN in Portugal are reporting this evening that the Portuguese coach has rejected an extraordinary offer of around £17m a year to take charge of the PIF-funded side. Speculation that Silva might be tempted to take the Saudi cash had reached fever pitch over the last week, especially as a host of big-name managers, including Jose Mourinho, had rebuffed advances from Al-Hilal.

Silva, though, wants to build on the success of his first two years in SW6 having guided Fulham back to the top flight by winning the Championship in his first season after succeeding Scott Parker and then steering the Whites to tenth in the Premier League last term. He has yet to sign the long-term contract offered by the Cottagers as he is waiting to see whether the club's summer acquisitions match his own ambition but Silva is understood to be happy at Craven Cottage and is preparing for a full campaign in charge of Fulham.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/silva-rejects-another-al-hilal-approach/

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Crystal Palace want £40k-a-week PL star on free transfer, former PL winner wants to stay in London
The latest reports suggest that Crystal Palace want to sign Premier League star Willian on a free transfer this summer window.

According to TEAMtalk, the winger has not been able to agree a contract extension with Fulham. His contract with the club expired in June.

The report suggests that the Brazilian could not agree a deal because Fulham were only offering him a one-year contract. He apparently wants more than that.

This news has seen clubs monitor the player. The report suggests that one of the interested parties are Crystal Palace. The club want to attempt to sign him on a free transfer and the player apparently prefers to stay in London.

Crystal Palace want to sign Willian
It is no shock to see the Eagles in the market for a right-winger. It was recently reported that key player Michael Olise picked up a hamstring injury with France U21's and could be out for months.

Willian, who was on £40,000-a-week at Fulham, would be an ideal candidate to fill in for the Frenchman and also become a good squad player for the Eagles.

The former Chelsea and Arsenal star, who has won the Premier League twice, would add some great quality and much-needed experience to the squad.

The Eagles could also lose Wilfried Zaha on a free transfer this summer. The great thing about Willian is that he is very versatile. The 34 year-old can play on either wing and this could be a vital asset for the Eagles.

With an abundance of Premier League goals, great experience and a winning mentality, Willian seems like an ideal transfer on a free signing.



https://tbrfootball.com/crystal-palace-want-40k-a-week-pl-star-on-free-transfer-former-pl-winner-wants-to-stay-in-london/

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Tottenham: Postecoglou urging Levy to sign Palhinha
Fulham value the central midfielder at £90m.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is urging chairman Daniel Levy to make a move for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha, according to a report.

Is Joao Palhinha leaving Fulham this summer?
Back in June, Palhinha appeared to indicate that a move is off the table this summer, stating that he is "very happy" at Fulham and wants to stay, however, that has not stopped a number of top clubs from making their interest clear.

The Daily Mail report that the Cottagers would be willing to let the Portugal international leave during this window, but only if their £90m asking price is paid in full, amid interest from Barcelona, who have identified him as a target to replace Sergio Busquets.

In recent weeks, the likes of West Ham United and Liverpool have been linked with a move for the 27-year-old, and Postecoglou is now eager for Spurs to make their first move, in light of the growing interest from elsewhere.

According to a report from The Sun (via TEAMtalk), the Tottenham boss is urging Levy to make a concrete move for the Fulham star, however, any deal is likely to set Tottenham back a new club-record fee.

Despite paying just £20m for the midfielder a year ago, Fulham now value him at £90m, and Spurs are mulling over a deal which is well in excess of their club-record of the £60m paid for Richarlison.

Postecoglou hopes to convince Levy to launch a bid, and the Lilywhites could look to finance the deal by selling the likes of Giovani Lo Celso and Tanguy Ndombele.

Is Palhinha signing for Tottenham?
Tottenham are yet to make any firm moves for the Portuguese maestro, so a deal is still some way off, but he could be an excellent addition to Postecoglou's squad, should the interest become more concrete.

The former Sporting CP man made a whopping 147 tackles in the Premier League last season, 47 more than any other player in the top flight, showcasing his phenomenal defensive ability, and he also ranks in the 92nd percentile for aerials won per 90 in the past year.

Hailed as a "beast" by members of the media, there is every indication the central midfielder is entering his prime with a career-high Transfermarkt valuation, however, there are still question marks about whether he should be targeted by Spurs.

Palhinha turns 28 later this month, so it may not be financially prudent to spend £90m on a player who is approaching the latter stages of his career, especially considering he has only proven himself in the Premier League over the course of one season.



https://www.footballfancast.com/tottenham-premier-league-joao-palhinha-transfer-news-rumours-updates/

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Fulham will demand 'a lot of money' to sell 'special' star at Craven Cottage
Fulham will only consider selling a 'special' star if a lucrative fee which meets their demands is tabled

Fulham will ensure boss Marco Silva remains happy by resisting the urge to cash in on Joao Palhinha after the Craven Cottage favourite has attracted strong interest from West Ham United, Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge has told GIVEMESPORT.

The Cottagers are looking to build on a positive first campaign back in the Premier League, but key man Palhinha has been linked with a summer departure.

Fulham transfer news - Joao Palhinha
According to MailOnline, Fulham have slapped a £90million price tag on Palhinha in a bid to dissuade suitors from heading to the negotiating table.

The report suggests West Ham are eyeing the Portugal international as they look to replace Declan Rice, while a bid worth far less than his price tag could be lodged to test the Cottagers' resolve.

Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth recently told GIVEMESPORT that the Hammers are 'very interested' in Palhinha, but warned it could be difficult to strike a deal due to the length of time still remaining on his Fulham contract.

The defensive midfielder still has four years left on his £50,000-per-week deal, putting his current employers in a strong negotiating position.

But West Ham are not the only admirers of Palhinha as Manchester United have also been keeping tabs on his situation.

What has Michael Bridge said about Palhinha?
Bridge understands that Fulham will not entertain sanctioning Palhinha's exit unless a lucrative offer which meets their valuation is lodged.

The Sky Sports reporter believes that Cottagers boss Silva will be displeased if the 27-year-old or other key men are offloaded ahead of the upcoming campaign.

Bridge told GIVEMESPORT: "From what I'm told at Fulham, it's going to take a lot of money for them to consider selling Joao Palhinha.

"Marco Silva has made it pretty clear that while he's at the club, he is a very ambitious manager and if Fulham are going to lose key players, there's no point in him carrying on there. He's made that quite public in press conferences I've attended as well."

Is keeping Palhinha a priority for Fulham?
Fulham forked out £20million when they signed Palhinha from Portuguese giants Sporting last summer, according to Sky Sports, and it has proven to be money well spent.

He has wasted no time in adjusting to the rigours of the Premier League and finished the 2022/23 campaign having made the most tackles in the division by a considerable margin, winning possession on 147 occasions.

WhoScored ranked Palhinha as Fulham's fifth-best performer in the top flight last term, handing him an average match rating of 6.93.

But the former Braga man's quality should not come as a surprise as Sporting head coach Ruben Amorim has previously described him as 'special'.

Palhinha has already made himself one of the first names on the team-sheet at Fulham - amassing 40 appearances since his arrival - and keeping him on board is critical for the west Londoners.



https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-transfer-news-demand-money-sell-special-star-craven-cottage/

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Manchester United open to selling £20m Fulham target after Mount deal
Manchester United open to offers for Fred after Mason Mount deal
Manchester United are apparently open to selling Fred after securing a deal for Mason Mount from Chelsea.

According to the Athletic (Subscription Required), Manchester United sealed a £60million deal for the England international recently. The 24-year-old England international's arrival, however, could mean Fred's departure.

Fred arrived at Old Trafford from Shakhtar Donetsk some five years ago. He has had his ups and downs here but there hasn't been a full season where fans have been in favour of him being a regular starter.

The Brazil international is technically limited and Mount would certainly be an upgrade on him when it comes to going forward on the pitch. Moreover, Manchester United can recoup some of the fees they paid for Mount with Fred's sale.

Fred to Premier League side Fulham?
He apparently has an asking price of £20million. Fulham, who bought another unwanted Brazilian from Manchester United last summer (Andreas Pereira for £10million), are keen on signing Fred.

He is now in his 30s and could be on the decline. Erik ten Hag arrived with his own ideas at Old Trafford and made telling signings in his first window.

Christian Eriksen and Casemiro's arrival meant Fred and Scott McTominay's place in the starting XI on a regular basis was a thing of the past. It is time to finally move on from Fred.

Under Ten Hag, things seem like they are more about quality rather than quantity. And neither is the Dutchman afraid to take major squad overhaul decisions, as he has done with Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Maguire.



https://weallfollowunited.com/2023/07/02/manchester-united-open-to-offers-fred-mason-mount-deal-chelsea-fulham/

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Fulham favourites to sign Musah
Fulham are the front runners to sign Valencia midfielder Yunus Musah, according to a report in the Sun.

The Whites are ready to match the Spanish side's £20m asking price for their American international, who is high on Marco Silva's list of summer targets. The 20 year-old, who has played more than a hundred senior matches for the Mestella outfit, is keen on a return to London – having spent seven years in Arsenal's youth set up – and would relish the opportunity of playing in the Premier League.

Musah, who was born in New York, signed for Valencia at the age of sixteen having impressed in the Arsenal academy. He made seventeen appearances for Valenica's B-team in the Segunda in 2019-20 before being promoted to the senior squad after starring in pre-season under new manager Javi Gracia. He made his senior debut in a 4-2 victory over Levante aged seventeen and scored his first La Liga goal against Getafe six weeks later – becoming the youngster goalscorer in the club's history.

Musah has played 108 matches in total for Valencia, scoring five goals, but has been made available for transfer this summer with Los che seeking around £20m for his services. The two-time Nations League winner, who has been capped 27 times at senior international level by the States, is also being tracked by AC Milan but the Serie A side have failed to meet Valencia's asking price. Fulham are confident of concluding a deal to bring Musah, who has largely been played on the winger by current coach Rubén Baraja, to Craven Cottage.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/fulham-favourites-to-sign-musah/

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Fulham ready to offer Robinson new deal
Fulham are confident of keeping American international Antonee Robinson at the club after the flying full back expressed an interest in extending his Craven Cottage contract.

Reports last month suggested that the former Wigan Athletic left-back had rejected a new deal with the Whites, but this was wide of the mark as Robinson had instructed his representatives not to discuss terms until he had completed his international commitments at the CONCACAF Nations League. The 25 year-old, who had arguably his strongest season in SW6 as the Whites finished tenth on their return to the top flight, is willing to commit his future to the Cottagers as long as the terms of his new deal are amenable.

The Sun's Alan Nixon reports that Robinson is happy in London and, contrary to earlier reports, is interested in remaining with the Whites having been appreciative of Marco Silva's faith in his ability when the Portuguese head coach confirmed the Wirral-born left back as his first choice after succeeding Scott Parker. Robinson has made 103 appearances for Fulham since moving from Wigan in the summer of 2020 and Fulham are ready to 'push the boat' in order to secure the long-term future of one of their key players.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/fulham-ready-to-offer-robinson-new-deal/