Tuesday Fulham Stuff - 11/07/23...

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Coventry City midfielder Gustavo Hamer 'targeted' by Leeds United and Fulham
Coventry City midfielder Gustavo Hamer has reportedly been targeted by Leeds United.

The 26-year-old has been a mainstay of the Sky Blues midfield since 2020, when he arrived in England from Dutch outfit PEC Zwolle. According to Mail Online, he has been targeted by Leeds and has also attracted interest from Fulham.

A combative midfield presence, Hamer has made a total of 130 appearances for Coventry and featured in last season's Championship play-off final. He has one year remaining on his contract, therefore Coventry may wish to cash in if he does not commit his long-term future to the club.

A summer of change is anticipated at Elland Road and the squad reshuffle is already underway. Robin Koch, Diego Llorente and Brenden Aaronson have departed on loan, while Tyler Roberts is among the players to have sealed a permanent exit. However, Leeds have not yet bolstered their ranks ahead of their return to second tier action.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/coventry-city-midfielder-gustavo-hamer-targeted-by-leeds-united-and-fulham-4212725

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Report: Premier League side to do battle with Leeds for 'phenomenal' Brazil-born sensation
The Mail claim Leeds United are set to compete with Premier League side Fulham for Coventry City star Gustavo Hamer this summer, after the Brazil-born playmaker starred for the Sky Blues last season in the Championship.

Hamer, 26, starred for Coventry last season. The best of his three seasons with Mark Robins' side, he produced an impressive 21 goals and assists, scoring 11 and creating 10. He scored goals in the play-off semi final, and final.

But the playmaker has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Coventry. Last week, Phil Hay reported on The Athletic's website that Hamer is on our shortlist. A player that Coventry boss Robins described as "phenomenal".

Now, The Mail report that Hamer is a target for Premier League side Fulham this summer. It comes after the Daily Mail (July 1, page 105) said that Brenden Aaronson was a target for Fulham – but decided not to sign our USA man.

Instead, Aaronson has moved to Bundesliga side Union Berlin on loan, after qualifying for the Champions League. Fulham are still in the market for a 10, switching their attention to Hamer ahead of a possible summer transfer.

Leeds set to compete with Fulham for Coventry star Gustavo Hamer
Hamer would be an incredible signing for Leeds. He would be a very good signing for Fulham, too. Hamer has a decision then. Does he join a Fulham side where he is likely to provide cover for Andreas Pereira in the 10 role?

He would be in the Premier League, living in London, but struggling to start week in, week out. At Leeds, Hamer would instantly be one of our best players and with Aaronson going, Leeds need to bring in a new playmaker.

That is the selling point Leeds must make to Hamer if talks to get to that stage. He has the chance to become an icon at Leeds by helping us regain promotion – and at that point, making himself first choice for the top tier.



https://www.leedsunited.news/news/report-premier-league-side-to-battle-leeds-for-phenomenal-brazil-born-midfielder/

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Everton 'on the move' to sign 26-year-old – Toffees making efforts for deal
On June 27th, we covered a claim from France that Fulham are very interested in Fodé Ballo-Touré. Marco Silva's side are now joined by three other clubs, including Everton, in the chase for the AC Milan player in the summer window.

That's according to Foot Mercato, who state Everton, Bologna and Werder Bremen are all interested in the left-back.

It's claimed these three sides are 'on the move to recover' the 26-year-old. With regards to Fulham, the report adds they still have their eyes set on the fullback.

The Senegal international was a backup to Theo Hernández last season and was restricted to only 14 appearances, which included five league starts.

Despite the limited game time, the report states the defender continues to have a market as Fulham, Everton, Bologna and Werder Bremen are all keen on securing his services.

Foot Mercato add the player aims to be a starter next season and with Hernández at the San Siro, he would have to move to another club to feature regularly. This would hint he's open to a transfer this summer.

Ballo-Touré's deal expires in 2025 and there's no mention of the fee Milan would demand to let go of him.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/everton-on-the-move-to-sign-26-year-old-fulham-also-keen-on-player-whos-aiming-for-summer-move/

[WhiteJC]

Internationals: Jamaica Into Semis

Jamaica progressed to the Semi-Finals of the 2023 Gold Cup with a 1-0 victory over Guatemala on Sunday.

Bobby De Cordova-Reid played the full 90, and was in a creative mood in Cincinnati, teeing up Leon Bailey and Demarai Gray for shooting chances in the early stages.

He then registered the game's first shot on target in the 18th minute, but the Guatemalan stopper, Nicholas Godoy, was equal to his effort.

A peachy De Cordova-Reid cross then almost assisted a stylish opener, but centre-back Damion Lowe was off target with his ambitious scorpion kick.

The winner arrived early in the second half when Luton Town left-back Amari'i Bell got well forward before slotting inside Godoy's near post.

De Cordova-Reid was playmaking again midway through the second period, threading Bailey in on goal, but the Aston Villa man saw his shot well saved by Godoy.

Guatemala did put the Reggae Boyz under some pressure as they sought an equaliser, but De Cordova-Reid and his teammates held out to set up a Semi-Final clash with Mexico on Wednesday in Las Vegas.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/10/internationals-jamaica-into-semis/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Crystal Palace Plot Move for Barça Right-Back
Barça Starlet Dest Eyeing Premier League Switch: Fulham & Crystal Palace Loom Large
The Fulham and Crystal Palace Chase

Premier League outfits Fulham and Crystal Palace find themselves in the mix, eyeing a fresh injection of talent in the form of Barça's forgotten star Sergiño Dest. The North American right-back's absence from Xavi's tactical blueprint is driving a potential exit from Catalunya, as per reports emerging from the distinguished Spanish outlet, Mundo Deportivo.

Dest's Falling Stardom
October 2020 saw Barça proudly unveil Dest, following a hefty €21 million plus €5 million add-ons acquisition. The five-year deal, ending June 2025, also brought along a €400 million termination clause. However, UK sources now speculate a £17 million move to England's top-flight football, with Crystal Palace also reportedly in the running for Dest's signature.

A Journey Marred by Setbacks
A recent loan spell at Milan ended in disappointment for the right-back, as he found himself sidelined since January. The Italians held a €20 million purchase option for Dest, which they have chosen not to pursue. With the Bundesliga side Union Berlin also out of the picture, a UK future seems increasingly likely for Dest.

Interest from Old Trafford
Manchester United, too, have shown a past interest in the Barça man. Last summer saw reports of potential negotiations with the Catalan giants as per journalist Dane Jones. However, Dest's limited playtime could complicate any potential moves. Despite this, the Red Devils are reportedly keeping a keen eye on his evolving situation.



https://eplindex.com/91781/fulham-and-crystal-palace-plot-move-for-barca-right-back.html

[WhiteJC]

Everton join Fulham in hunt for AC Milan ace Fode Ballo-Toure who wants more playing time
Everton have shown an interest in signing AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure in the summer transfer window, according to Foot Mercato.

The publication noted that Premier League side Fulham, Serie A outfit Bologna and Bundesliga club Werder Bremen are also keen on the 26-year-old.

Foot Mercato added that Ballo-Toure wants more playing time in Milan and wants to fight for the first-choice left-back spot.

According to Foot Mercato information, Bologna, Werder Bremen and Everton have joined Fulham in the battle for Ballo-Touré, who is contracted to Milan until June 2025.

The publication added: "Well in Lombardy, the native of Conflans-Sainte-Honorine aspires to have more playing time and wishes to apply for the position of number one on the left side."

Difficult one
Everton will not want to be getting involved in too many transfer battles this summer, with manager Sean Dyche not having the time or the funds to be dealing with such circumstances.

The Toffees could find themselves quickly out of the running in this one, with the other clubs involved perhaps not struggling financially like the Merseyside outfit are.

But left-back is seemingly an area that the club are keen to strengthen in as they look to bolster their defence ahead of the upcoming season.

And while Ballo-Toure is keen on a starting spot at the Serie A giants, it looks very hard to come by given the presence of Theo Hernandez.

The Senegal international, a product of the PSG youth academy, was handed just 10 league appearances last season.

That will be welcome news to the clubs chasing his signature in the current summer transfer window, but it remains a difficult challenge for Everton to persuade the player to come to Goodison.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/07/10/everton-join-fulham-in-hunt-for-ac-milan-ace-fode-ballo-toure-who-wants-more-playing-time/

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Fulham: Silva can complete £20m "really clever signing"
Fulham are in the race to bring Valencia midfielder Yunus Musah to Craven Cottage, according to reports.



Fulham are keen on a deal to sign Valencia midfielder Yunus Musah and may be helped in their pursuit by AC Milan's focus on trying to sign Chelsea winger Christian Pulisic, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Yunus Musah?
According to The Sun, Fulham are looking to sign USA international Musah from Valencia this summer in a deal that could cost in the region of £20 million to complete.

The report states that Valencia are willing to part ways with the enforcer and AC Milan are also keen to secure his services; however, the Italian giants are yet to reach his asking price.

La Gazzetta dello Sport via Ghanaweb detail that Jose Mourinho's Roma have registered an interest in Musah and have been impressed by his profile and versatility.

Calciomercato state that AC Milan want to bring in Tijjani Reijnders from AZ Alkmaar this window and have cooled their pursuit of Musah due to a gap in valuation between both themselves and Valencia.

AC Milan are said to have offered Valencia a package with add-ons reaching around £15.4 million; however, the Spanish outfit are looking to hold out for a better financial package.

Capology understand that Musah earns around €28,846 (£24,689) per week on a contract that runs until the summer of 2026.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Jones has indicated that AC Milan's focus on sealing a deal for Chelsea ace Pulisic may have 'opened the door' for Fulham to firm up their interest in bringing Musah to Craven Cottage.

Jones stated: "Yunus Musah was expected to close a deal with AC Milan and the contacts around that deal with Valencia are not in doubt. But nothing has been finalised and, at a time when Milan interest focused on tying up Pulisic, it might have opened the door for Fulham to show Musah a path to the Premier League.

"Fulham have long-standing ties to the US and already have Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson in the squad. Their interest in Musah is real and, over the past couple of days, a £20million deal has started to turn from a fantasy towards something a bit more realistic.

"He's a wonderful player, still so young too, and this would be a really clever signing if they can pull it off. They can't give him European football and that's one downside of any offer from his point of view, as he really wants to head in that direction. But Fulham have other positives and a Milan misstep here has opened the door."

Who else could Fulham target this summer?
Fulham boss Marco Silva will be desperate to build on the positive inroads his side made in the Premier League last season and will have several targets on his list to bolster the Cottagers' squad.

Midfield is an area likely to see some movement over the next few weeks and Coventry City star Gustavo Hamer has emerged as a potential incoming and is now into the last year of his contract at the Sky Blues, as per Sky Sports.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has taken to Twitter to describe a new development in Fulham's chase of Manchester United midfielder Fred, stating: "Understand Fred has now picked new agents, same group as Gabriel Jesus. He could leave as Fulham will bid for Fred but also Saudi clubs want him. He's under contract until 2024 at Man United but understands that playing a more important role is key now for his future."

Former Everton defender Yerry Mina could also be on his way to Craven Cottage and Fulham are 'expected' to make an offer for the Colombia international if they lose some depth in central defence during the window, as per The Sun.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-yunus-musah-transfer-rumours-news-craven-cottage/

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Which Premier League teams are on TV the most? Newcastle loved by Sky Sports, Fulham forgotten
The first Premier League TV picks for the 2023/24 season have been made and it will take some doing to avoid watching new Sky Sports favourites Newcastle.

Sky Sports and TNT Sports have chosen their TV games for the first seven weeks of the new Premier League campaign. One team has all but one match shown. Another has only one match selected.

Newcastle – six games
Sky Sports – Aston Villa (h), Liverpool (h), Brighton (a), Brentford (h), Sheffield United (a)

TNT Sports – Manchester City (a)

Those TV execs have a new favourite plaything. The only Newcastle game of their first seven in the Premier League not to be broadcast this season is the home match against Burnley on September 30.


Arsenal – five games
Sky Sports – Crystal Palace (a), Man Utd (h), Everton (a), Spurs (h)

TNT Sports – Nottingham Forest (h)

The first test of whether TNT Sports can avoid the pitfalls of its predecessor comes on the first Saturday of the season when Arsenal host Nottingham Forest, but the Gunners are otherwise stationed fairly frequently on a revamped Sky.


Chelsea – five games
Sky Sports – Liverpool (h), West Ham (a), Luton (h), Bournemouth (a), Fulham (a)

Perhaps hoping Frank Lampard is in caretaker charge before long, Chelsea will face two of the sides who finished last season above them, a couple more who ended up below, and Luton in their Premier League away bow.


Spurs – five games
Sky Sports – Man Utd (h), Arsenal (a), Liverpool (h), Brentford (a)

TNT Sports – Bournemouth (a)

That is an awful lot of airtime to fill trying to make Spurs sell Harry Kane.


Brentford – four games
Sky Sports – Spurs (h), Newcastle (a), Everton (h), Nottingham Forest (a)

If third season syndrome is a thing then much of it will be captured by the cameras early doors.


Everton – four games
Sky Sports – Aston Villa (a), Arsenal (h), Brentford (a)

TNT Sports – Sheffield United (a)

Impressive forward-thinking to save all the Goodison boos for later in the season when it properly starts to matter.


Liverpool – four games
Sky Sports – Chelsea (a), Newcastle (a), Spurs (a)

TNT Sports – Wolves (a)

All four of Liverpool's televised games so far being away is the kind of thing Jurgen Klopp will forget about and not take out on Des Kelly.


Man Utd – four games
Sky Sports – Wolves (h), Spurs (a), Arsenal (a)
TNT Sports – Burnley (a)

The first months of the Premier League season are not an early-round FA Cup tie so Man Utd are not a) perennially at home or b) permanently on the box.


Brighton – three games
Sky Sports – West Ham (h), Newcastle (h)

TNT Sports – Aston Villa (a)

There is a particularly European flavour when it comes to Brighton's selection.


Aston Villa – three games
Sky Sports – Newcastle (a), Everton (h)

TNT Sports – Brighton (h)
Villa won five of their six games against those three opponents last season; the exception to that rule was a 4-0 defeat to Newcastle they'd really rather wasn't shown live.


Manchester City – three games
Sky Sports – Burnley (a), Sheffield United (a)

TNT Sports – Newcastle (h)

The champions have not been picked for broadcast throughout the whole of September after having their first three games – including a season opener against Vincent Kompany which is dripping in narrative – chosen for TV.


Sheffield United – three games
Sky Sports – Manchester City (h), Newcastle (h)
TNT Sports – Everton (h)

There is no appetite to have the Blades seen on their travels but no club has more home games on the tube early on.


West Ham – three games
Sky Sports – Chelsea (h), Brighton (a), Luton (a)

A perfect schedule to parade a European trophy in front of Chelsea, compare notes on extracting nine-figure fees for midfielders with Brighton and test out that Luton away entrance.


Wolves – three games
Sky Sports – Man Utd (a), Crystal Palace (a)

TNT Sports – Liverpool (h)

Nice 150-mile round trip to Old Trafford for the first MNF of the campaign for Wolves. The fans who sensibly opt to stay at home will doubtless be treated to five minutes of analysis on their summer transfer window and season hopes.


Bournemouth – two games
Sky Sports – Chelsea (h)
TNT Sports – Spurs (h)

Gary O'Neil will be watching with the keenest eye of any observer as Andoni Iraola endures one of the more difficult Premier League introductions.


Burnley – two games
Sky Sports – Manchester City (h)

TNT Sports – Man Utd (a)

The Clarets are keeping their TV offerings fairly local at this stage.


Crystal Palace – two games
Sky Sports – Arsenal (h), Wolves (h)

Roy Hodgson won't welcome an 8pm Monday kick-off against the Gunners, but at least Songs of Praise will be finished by the time they face Wolves at 2pm a couple of Sundays after.


Luton – two games
Sky Sports – Chelsea (a), West Ham (h)

The coverage of that West Ham game, the first top-flight league match at Kenilworth Road since April 1992, is going to be unbearably condescending.


Nottingham Forest – two games
Sky Sports – Brentford (h)

TNT Sports – Arsenal (a)

There are 51 days between Forest's first TV game – at Saturday lunchtime of the opening weekend – and their second against Brentford in October.


Fulham – one game
Sky Sports – Chelsea (h)

Those bloody poor Fulham fans will have to wait until Monday, October 2 – seven weeks into the season – for a chance to see their side on the box. And even then it's against a team a stone's throw away.

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Full Premier League television schedule for the 2023/24 season

Friday August 11
Burnley v Manchester City (8pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday August 12
Arsenal v Forest (12.30pm, TNT Sports)
Newcastle v Aston Villa (5.30pm, Sky Sports)

Sunday August 13
Brentford v Spurs (2pm, Sky Sports)
Chelsea v Liverpool (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Monday August 14
Man Utd v Wolves (8pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday August 19
Spurs v Man Utd (5.30pm, Sky Sports)
Manchester City v Newcastle (8pm, TNT Sports)

Sunday August 20
Aston Villa v Everton (2pm, Sky Sports)
West Ham v Chelsea (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Monday August 21
Crystal Palace v Arsenal (8pm, Sky Sports)

Friday August 25
Chelsea v Luton Town (8pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday August 26
AFC Bournemouth v Spurs (12.30pm, TNT Sports)
Brighton v West Ham (5.30pm, Sky Sports)

Sunday 27 August
Sheff Utd v Man City (2pm, Sky Sports)
Newcastle v Liverpool (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Friday 1 September
Luton Town v West Ham (8pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday 2 September
Sheff Utd v Everton (12.30pm, TNT Sports)
Brighton v Newcastle (5.30pm, Sky Sports)

Sunday 3 September
Crystal Palace v Wolves (2pm, Sky Sports)
Arsenal v Man Utd (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday 16 September
Wolves v Liverpool (12.30pm, TNT Sports)
Everton v Arsenal (5.30pm, Sky Sports)

Sunday 17 September
AFC Bournemouth v Chelsea (2pm, Sky Sports)
Newcastle v Brentford (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday 23 September
Brentford v Everton (5.30pm, Sky Sports)
Burnley v Man Utd (8pm, TNT Sports)

Sunday 24 September
Arsenal v Spurs (2pm, Sky Sports)
Sheff Utd v Newcastle (4.30pm, Sky Sports)

Saturday 30 September
Aston Villa v Brighton (12.30pm, TNT Sports)
Spurs v Liverpool (5.30pm, Sky Sports)

Sunday 1 October
Nott'm Forest v Brentford (2pm, Sky Sports)

Monday 2 October
Fulham v Chelsea (8pm, Sky Sports)

Tuesday 5 December (all Amazon Prime at 7.45pm unless stated otherwise)

Aston Villa v Manchester City
Brighton v Brentford
Everton v Newcastle
Fulham v Nottingham Forest
Luton v Arsenal
Sheffield United v Liverpool
Tottenham v West Ham
Wolves v Burnley
Crystal Palace v Bournemouth (8pm)

Wednesday 6 December
Man Utd v Chelsea (8pm, Amazon Prime)

Tuesday 26 December (all Amazon Prime at 3pm)
Bournemouth v Fulham
Arsenal v West Ham
Brentford v Wolves
Brighton v Tottenham
Burnley v Liverpool
Chelsea v Crystal Palace
Everton v Manchester City
Man Utd v Aston Villa
Newcastle v Nottingham Forest
Sheffield United v Luton



https://www.football365.com/news/which-premier-league-teams-are-on-tv-the-most-sky-sports-tnt

[WhiteJC]

'Ready to say goodbye' – Player prepared for transfer as Fulham hover to sign him
In the past few days, reports from Italy have been saying it will be tough for Fulham to sign Igor from Fiorentina.

The Serie A side are said to be making big requests for the transfer, and the Whites don't seem even close to matching them.

There should, however, be some hope from Fulham about this situation, because according to Viola News, this scenario still exists, and all because of the player's wish.

The outlet today features a story about all the players who could leave Fiorentina this summer, and Igor is one of them.

It's claimed that the defender has made it known 'through his intermediary' that he wants to leave the club, meaning he's 'ready to say goodbye'.

Then when speaking of potential destinations for the Brazilian, Viola News only mention Fulham, claiming that the 'hypothesis remains alive', even though there's no agreement between the clubs yet.

Now we must wait and see how far the Whites go to make this signing possible. The latest claims from the Italian media said Marco Silva's side were offering €8m for Igor, while at least more than double would be needed for a deal.

Some fresher claims, though, have suggested €10m could be acceptable.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/ready-say-goodbye-player-prepared-transfer-fulham-hover-sign/

[WhiteJC]

Gustavo Hamer latest: Potential price tag and Coventry's stance discussed as Fulham and Leeds United take interest
Coventry City favourite Gustavo Hamer is being linked with both Fulham and Leeds United.

A recent report from Daily Mail has revealed that Fulham and Leeds United are both keen on signing the 26-year-old Hamer this summer, as he enters the final year of his Coventry City contract.

The Sky Blues paid just £1.5million for him in 2020 and he's proved to be a great signing, with the Dutchman scoring 11 goals and assisting ten more in the Championship last season.

Potential price tag?
There's been no suggestion of how much Coventry value Hamer at, but fans will say that he should fetch the same kind of fee that Viktor Gyokeres who is reportedly closing in on an £18.5million move to Sporting CP plus add-ons.

Although a different position, Hamer is just as quality a player as Gyokeres and his importance to the side is equal, so Coventry will be expecting another hefty payday should they be forced to cash in on Hamer this summer.

Transfermarkt value Hamer at €8million (£6.87million), but expect Coventry to want upwards of £15million for the midfielder.

Potential stance?
Expect Coventry City to hold the same stance with Hamer that they have done with Gyokeres. The Swede was always up for sale this summer as he too is in the final year of his Coventry deal, but the Sky Blues are holding out for a decent price for their star striker.

Hamer then, unless he unexpectedly signs a new deal with Coventry, looks set to be for sale this summer. Coventry will have to listen to offers for the midfielder given his contract situation, but expect Mark Robins' side to hold out for another big payday.

Hamer will certainly need replacing at Coventry should he be sold this summer. But with the money from Gyokeres' seemingly imminent sale, and then the potential sale of Hamer too, Robins should have more than enough resources to rebuild his squad this summer.



https://the72.co.uk/2023/07/10/gustavo-hamer-latest-potential-price-tag-and-coventrys-stance-discussed-as-fulham-and-leeds-united-take-interest/

[WhiteJC]

Club want offer they can't refuse to sell player to Fulham – Marco Silva's side yet to make concrete move
Last week, reports from Brazil claimed Fulham scheduled a meeting with the agent of São Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia.

It was said the Whites wanted the agent to go to London, as they would discuss the possibility of a summer move.

Today, it's journalist André Hernan who features a story on Fulham's pursuit, and he claims things are actually not moving so fast.

Following recent gossip of a potential offer from the Whites, the reporter claims to have spoken to people at São Paulo who guarantee that there have been no bids yet.

It's recalled that back in January, Fulham promised they'd arrive with an attempt in the summer, but that hasn't happened so far.

Hernan also learned that São Paulo have no intention of negotiating Maia in this transfer window, and the only way to do that would be for an offer they can't refuse. In the club's point of view, that would be of €20m or more.

So if Fulham are actually preparing that bid, they better know the player won't be cheap as in January.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/club-want-offer-cant-refuse-sell-player-fulham-marco-silvas-side-yet-make-concrete-move/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham save machine Leno among Fantasy Premier League's best value goalkeepers



It's that time of year again with every aspiring manager in the country is tinkering with their Fantasy Football team ahead of the 2023/24 Premier League season, which gets underway in just one month.

We take a look at three bargain goalkeepers that are more than worthy of consideration when choosing your stopper for the upcoming campaign.

Bernd Leno – 4.5
The first keeper for consideration is Fulham's Bernd Leno. The German stopper made 36 appearances for the Cottagers last season and he ranked second for saves (143) amongst Goalkeepers in Europe's top five leagues last season. Fulham also kept a total of eight clean sheets with Leno in between the sticks, the tenth highest return in the Premier League.
 
If we take a look at his performance on FPL last year, he amassed 142 points, a total which saw him rank sixth amongst the other keepers in the league and of the 13 goalkeepers to make at least 30 appearances in the Premier League last season, only David Raya registered a higher WhoScored.com rating (6.97) than Bernd Leno (6.94) and at a meager 4.5m he should be a popular option.

Alphonse Areola – 4.0
Next up is Alphonse Areola of West Ham. The Frenchman played second fiddle behind Lukas Fabianksi last season and only featured in five Premier League games for the Hammers, making just two starts.

However, at a price of just 4.0 there are no players cheaper than the stopper and he may be worth a shout. Particularly if Fabianski does fall out of the side, or leaves, as it is rumoured, Areola will be right on hand to provide his services and if he becomes number one then his inclusion in your FPL side would be a smart one.

Jason Steele – 4.5
Our final bargain buy is Brighton's Jason Steele. The 32-year old made a total of 15 Premier League starts for the Seasiders last season, with Robert Sanchez (6.42) starting the lion-share of games (23), but it is the Englishman that received the higher WhoScored.com rating (6.73)for the previous campaign.

In the games that Steele did feature in he managed to accrue 65 fantasy points, a total which was bettered by 16 keepers, but as a second string keeper that's not a bad return. He also saved one penalty, in those 15 apps and kept the same amount of clean sheets (6) as his colleague, Sanchez.

With Sanchez reportedly looking for a move away from Brighton, Steele could be a shrewd play.



https://www.whoscored.com/Articles/1ekMp805f0-LZsEKYqBTGw/Show/Fulham-save-machine-Leno-among-Fantasy-Premier-League-s-best-value-goalkeepers

[WhiteJC]

Fulham: Cottagers "interested" in signing Gustavo Hamer
The Coventry City star has now entered the final year of his contract.

Fulham are now "interested" signing Coventry City midfielder Gustavo Hamer this summer, but they are yet to lodge an official bid, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.

What's the latest Fulham transfer news?
Fulham have set their sights in bringing in a new central midfielder this summer, with Valencia's Yunus Musah now emerging as a "real" target, and their chances of signing the 20-year-old are "realistic", according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Cottagers are weighing up a £20m move for the USMNT international, and they could be set to add yet another American to their squad, with Tim Ream and Antonee Robinson already at Marco Silva's disposal.

Manchester United midfielder Fred is also of interest to Fulham, with Fabrizio Romano recently reporting they are "really keen" on signing the Brazilian, with his current club currently "considering" letting him leave this summer.

A new, defensively-minded midfielder may be required at Craven Cottage, amid ongoing speculation about Joao Palhinha's future, with West Ham United now ready to test the water with a bid for the Portugal international.

However, the Cottagers value Palhinha at £90m, as he is contracted until the summer of 2027, with the club retaining the option to extend his deal by an extra year, meaning they are under no obligation to sell him.

Taking to Twitter, Sheth has now reported that Fulham are "interested" in signing Hamer, however they are yet to make an official bid for the Coventry City midfielder.

The Sky Sports reporter notes that the 26-year-old has now entered the final year of his contract, meaning it is the Sky Blues' last chance to cash-in, but it remains to be seen whether last year's Championship play-off finalists are willing to listen to offers.

Leeds United have also been named as potential suitors for the midfielder this summer.

How many goals has Gustavo Hamer scored?
Although he has primarily featured in a defensive midfield role throughout his career so far, the Dutchman managed to display his attacking prowess for Coventry last season, recording a total of 11 goals and ten assists in all competitions.

The 2022-23 campaign was the second season on the spin in which the Brazil-born midfielder has been able to reach double figures for assists in the second tier, highlighting that he is now ready to make the step-up to the Premier League.

Hailed as "unbelievable" by former teammate Marko Marosi, the £7k-per-week playmaker is a very well-rounded player, as demonstrated by the fact he ranks in the 86th percentile for tackles completed per 90 over the past year, when compared to players at a similar level.

Although no Fulham fan will want to see Palhina leave, those statistics indicate the Coventry maestro could be a top-quality replacement for the 28-year-old, who recorded the most tackles of any player in the Premier League last season.

However, even if Palhinha remains at Craven Cottage, Hamer is definitely still a worthwhile signing, given his attacking qualities, and at 26-years-old he should now be entering his prime years.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-gustavo-hamer-transfer-news-rumours-updates/

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Fulham and West Ham are keeping tabs on England U21 captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis... with Man City seeking £15m for the defender this summer after Euros success

    Taylor Harwood-Bellis is attracting interest from multiple Premier League sides
    The defender captained England U21s to Euros glory in Georgia this month

England Under 21 captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis is set for a Premier League move this summer, with Fulham and West Ham United keeping tabs on the defender.

Harwood-Bellis led the Young Lions to a first European Championship title in 39 years as they beat Spain on Saturday night and wants to test himself at the highest level.

Manchester City are believed to value the academy graduate, who joined the club as a child, at around £15million.

Harwood-Bellis has one year left on his contract at the Etihad Stadium and enjoyed a stellar campaign for Burnley as they won promotion back to the top flight under Vincent Kompany.


England's U21s-winning captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis (middle) is attracting summer interest


Both West Ham and Fulham are keeping tabs on the Man City defender valued at £15million

His performances at Turf Moor and out in Georgia for his country has alerted a number of clubs looking to bolster their back line.

Born in 2002, England can call on Harwood-Bellis for the next Under-21 tournament and his partnership with Levi Colwill was a major reason behind the Euro glory.

Senior boss Gareth Southgate also namechecked the 21-year-old as one England are watching ahead of the tournament last month.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12283325/Fulham-West-Ham-keeping-tabs-England-U21-captain-Taylor-Harwood-Bellis-Man-City-seeking-15m-defender-summer-Euros-success.html

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Taylor Harwood-Bellis: Fulham and West Ham interested in Man City defender

England did not concede a goal en route to winning the European Under-21 Championship

Fulham and West Ham are among a number of Premier League clubs interested in England's European Under-21 Championship-winning captain Taylor Harwood-Bellis.

The 21-year-old Manchester City defender led the Young Lions to their first European title in 39 years with victory over Spain in Saturday's final.

He also won the Championship while on loan at Burnley last season.

It is understood City value Harwood-Bellis at about £15m.

Harwood-Bellis, who is entering the final year of his contract at City, was name-checked by England manager Gareth Southgate during the senior international break last month.

His centre-back partner Levi Colwill was part of the England squad during the last international break and figures at the FA believe Harwood-Bellis is one of a number of the current U21 team able to progress to the senior squad.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66157071

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"£10-15m" - How much might Fulham have to pay for Coventry City ace? The verdict
FLW's verdict on Fulham's pursuit of Gustavo Hamer

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

Fulham are set to compete for the signing of Gustavo Hamer from Coventry City.

According to Sky Sports (09/07, 14.15) the Cottagers are looking to sign the midfielder this summer.

Hamer proved a key part of Mark Robins' side as they earned a place in the play-off final last season.

What value should Coventry City place on Gustavo Hamer?
Here we ask our FLW writers their verdict on what kind of valuation the Sky Blues should have for the 26-year-old...

Brett Worthington
It is no surprise that teams are interested in signing Coventry's Gustavo Hamer this summer.

Fulham are the latest in a long line of teams that have been impressed by the midfielder and will no doubt make a move for him in this transfer window.

The Sky Blues are going to lose Viktor Gyokeres and ideally will not want to lose Hamer as well, but with 12 months on his contract, like every player, he will have a price.

Despite his contract situation, Coventry should easily be looking for £10–£15 million for the Brazilian at the very least.

Hamer has been an excellent signing for Coventry, and they will know they won't be able to keep hold of him forever, so with the right offer, this summer seems like the perfect time to let him go.

Adam Elliott
Hamer to Fulham makes enormous sense, given his versatility as a midfielder and his need to step up to the top division.

The Leeds interest may have tempted him, but Coventry can hardly stand in the way of a move to the Premier League with Fulham.

With a year left on his contract, it is imperative that Coventry cash-in now and maximise whatever fee they can for the 26-year-old.

He would surely cost upwards of £10 million, even when considering his contractual situation. Hamer is probably in the £10-13 million region and would have been a lot more with a longer contract length.

They have already splashed the cash on Ellis Simms to replace Viktor Gyokeres, and should look to do so again with Hamer.

Losing both will obviously be a blow, but if the cash is used correctly and spread around multiple areas of the squad, then Coventry could go one step further next season and gain promotion.

Declan Harte
Given Hamer is in the final year of his contract, it will be hard for Coventry to dig their heels in too much when it comes to valuation.

The club agreed a £20 million deal to sell Viktor Gyokeres, who is in a similar situation.

But there is that extra premium that comes with being a striker that means Coventry will be doing well to get something close to £15 million for Hamer.

It would be a huge blow to lose such a talented player, but a combined fee of £30 to 35 million for Hamer and Gyokeres should allow the club to reinvest back into the first team squad, which should make up for their departures if the right signings are made.

If targets can be identified, then cashing-in is the right decision for Coventry given the circumstances.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/10-15m-how-much-might-fulham-have-to-pay-for-coventry-city-ace-the-verdict/

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Fulham hunt Harwood-Bellis
Fulham are set to fight West Ham United for Manchester City central defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis, according to a Daily Mail report this evening.

The Stockport-born centre back captained England under-21s to their first European Championship title in 39 years at the weekend and is keen to play regular Premier League football this season. Harwood-Bellis has made just eight senior appearances for his boyhood club and has spent the last four seasons on loan at Blackburn Rovers, Anderlecht, Stoke City and Burnley.

City are ready to cash in Harwood-Bellis's potential with the academy graduate entering the last twelve months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium. He starred at Turf Moor as Vincent Kompany's side secured an immediate return to the top flight – and that success has whetted the 21 year-old's appetite to test himself at the highest level. He could replace another former City starlet in Tosin Adarabioyo, who is considering his options this summer, at Craven Cottage as Marco Silva hunts for defensive reinforcements ahead of the new season.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/fulham-hunt-harwood-bellis/