Friday Fulham Stuff - 14/07/23...

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Brazilian Star in High Demand: Nottingham Forest, Fulham Keen
A Clash for Willian: Nottingham Forest vs Fulham

London Beckons Once Again
In the great theatre of football, free agent Willian may find himself enticed by the allure of London once more. The former Chelsea star initially spurned Fulham's advances, but the potential of a second act with the London-based club could yet sway his decision report The Daily Mail.

A proven performer in his time, Willian's return to top-flight football last season made quite the splash. With five goals and six assists to his name, the 34-year-old was a formidable force, steering Fulham to a comfortable top-half finish.

Globetrotting Interest
It's not just the UK's capital that's calling out to Willian. Clubs from as far as Saudi Arabia have thrown their hats into the ring. With the clock ticking down, the Brazilian maestro is expected to declare his intentions imminently.

As he navigates the twilight of his illustrious career, Willian's worth remains unchallenged. The double Premier League champion and Europa League winner with Chelsea still has a lot to offer.

Willian: A Career of Distinction
Throughout seven seasons as a regular in Chelsea's line-up, his prowess was evident. The global stage is also no stranger to Willian's skills, with his 70 caps for Brazil and a victorious 2019 Copa America campaign speaking volumes.

However, it's worth noting that not all chapters of Willian's career have been as glittering. His 2020-21 season with Arsenal proved lacklustre, but a redeeming stint at Fulham saw his reputation restored, turning them into unexpected contenders in their Premier League return.



https://eplindex.com/92017/brazilian-star-in-high-demand-nottingham-forest-fulham-keen.html

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Nottingham Forest confident over Willian deal as Fulham focus on Callum Hudson-Odoi
Nottingham Forest are confident of beating Fulham in the race to sign Willian.

The 34-year-old has had face-to-face talks with Steve Cooper's side after rejecting an initial one-year contract offer at Craven Cottage.

Willian has been offered better terms by Forest, which includes the chance to end his career at Greek giants and partner club Olympiacos.

An improved offer from Fulham also remains on the table and hasn't been rejected.

The Brazil international scored five goals and got six assists in 27 league appearances during an impressive season where Fulham recorded a top-half Premier League finish.

Willian heading to the City Ground could give Fulham the edge in their race to sign Callum Hudson-Odoi from Chelsea.

The 22-year-old winger will snub offers from Saudi Arabia to pursue a Premier League move and has interest from Fulham, Forest and Crystal Palace.

Marco Silva's side are closing in on a £20m move for Fluminense midfielder Andre Trindade, who they initially approached in January.

The 21-year-old is highly regarded in Brazil and will slot into midfield alongside Harrison Reed and Joao Palhinha, who Fulham insist is not for sale.

Al-Hilal's £25.5m bid for star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic was rejected by Fulham yesterday despite Serbian's openness to pursue the move.

Fulham want to replace outgoing defender Tosin Adarabioyo but had bids rejected for Fiorentina's Igor and Benfica's Morato last week.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/nottingham-forest-willian-fulham-fc-hudson-odoi-b1094095.html

[WhiteJC]

Sat 15th July: Fulham XI (H)
Our Hayes Lane pre-season campaign gets underway on Saturday 15th July as we face Premier League opposition in Fulham and tickets are now on sale. A reminder that Club Members go free for this fixture and our upcoming pre-season games too.
Tickets are now on sale – click here to purchase!

Tickets are priced at the following:
Type    Price
Adult    £15
Concessions    £10
Under 16's    £5
11 years and under (accompanied by a paying adult)    FREE

If you're unable to purchase online or have any issues, you can head to our Jim Brown Club Shop from 9am to 4pm on weekdays or email [email protected].

Tickets will still be available online on the day, but if you are wanting to purchase last minute, you will be able to grab your ticket in person (cash or card payments) from the ticket kiosk when turnstiles open at 1.30pm.
What's On

The Hayes Lane Stadium will open for all visitors at 1.30pm. Whilst you're here, make the most of all we have going on...

    9am – Our Saturday Morning Soccer School starts! Book your child's place here.
    9am – Broomfields kitchen opens – Make sure you try out our new breakfast menu before 12pm!
    From 9am-6pm – The Jim Brown Club Shop will be open where you can purchase a wide range of Bromley merchandise, including our new home and away shirts.
    11am – Day 13 of Wimbledon will be shown on our Broomfields screens
    11.15am – We will also be showing the Goodwood Festival of Speed
    Midday – Broomfields matchday menu starts
    Midday – Broomfields Bar opens
    Midday – Happy Hour – 50% off all drinks, except shots, until 1pm.
    Midday – Bromley U21's vs Fisher
    1pm – Bear Island opens
    1.30pm – The Wimbledon Women's Finals will be shown in Broomfields and Bear Island
    3pm – Kick-off between Bromley and Fulham XI
    6pm – Broomfields Kitchen closed
    8pm – Broomfields Bar closed

Further information

    Our matchday magazine will be available to purchase for £3 from our new collection point on the ramp outside of the Jim Brown Club Shop.

Add more to your matchday experience

For just £5, you can upgrade your ticket and take advantage of our Ravens Lounge by clicking here.

The Ravens Lounge is a fresh, dynamic space where you can spend your pre-match in a chilled environment ahead of kick-off. Click here to find out more.



https://www.bromleyfc.co.uk/news/sat-15th-july-fulham-xi-h/

[WhiteJC]

West Ham and Fulham chasing same player – Just €3m needed for second division signing
West Ham United and Fulham are in the picture to sign Fortuna Düsseldorf's Ao Tanaka in the summer window, according to a report from Germany.

The midfielder initially joined the second division German club on loan in 2021 before his stay there was made permanent last year. He managed a goal and three assists from 23 games last season and his displays have 'attracted the attention' of both West Ham and Fulham.

That's according to Rheinische Post, who name the two London clubs when explaining that it's 'no secret' the 2. Bundesliga side are likely to be without the 24-year-old next season.

That's because Tanaka, who has a contract until 2025, 'wants to leave' in this window.

Fortuna Düsseldorf manager Daniel Thioune has also admitted that "there are clubs" interested in the Japan international but didn't provide details of those teams.

The newspaper states Fortuna Düsseldor director of sport Klaus Allofs and their sporting director, Christian Weber, will need around €3m to sanction Tanaka's sale this summer.

The price quoted is unlikely to be a problem for either West Ham and Fulham to match.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/west-ham-fulham-chasing-player-just-e3m-needed-second-division-signing/

[WhiteJC]

Bournemouth should enter race for 70-cap free agent
Now a free agent, there is plenty of interest in Willian this summer.

According to the Daily Mail, Nottingham Forest have made contact with Willian, whilst Fulham are also planning to try and tempt him back to Craven Cottage. On top of that, the Brazilian is the subject of interest from some Saudi Arabian clubs.

Despite being 34-years-old, Willian shone for Fulham last season and was showing no signs of slowing down. The former Arsenal and Chelsea attacker was a key figure at Craven Cottage, notching 5 goals and 6 assists over the course of the Premier League campaign.

Before Willian makes a final decision on where his next move will be to, Bournemouth would be wise to make their own approach for his services.

Why Bournemouth should consider Willian
As Bournemouth prepare for their second season in the top flight, Andoni Iraola would be wise to bolster his attacking options. Willian's versatility, which allows him to operate on either flank, as well as centrally in an attacking midfield role, would make him a useful addition to the Cherries' squad.

The 70-cap former Brazil international's creativity would help the likes of Dominic Solanke and Dango Ouattara to flourish around him. The main benefit of Willian's presence though would be his experience. Bournemouth are set for a tough season, and whilst there is positivity about Iraola's arrival, there will be challenging periods. The presence of a figure like Willian – who has two Premier League titles to his name and nearly 300 appearances in the competition under his belt – could be very beneficial for Iraola.

If a deal for Willian is there to be done, Bournemouth shouldn't miss this chance to make their move.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/07/13/bournemouth-should-enter-race-for-70-cap-free-agent/

[WhiteJC]

Get To Know: Our 2023/24 Scholars

As the new Academy season edges closer, Under-18s Assistant Coach Andrew Joslin sat down with fulhamfc.com to talk us through the new group of Academy scholars.

Bradley Slade: Defender
Bradley's been with us since the Foundation Phase (FP) and has already played significant minutes with the Under-18s group last season. He played in our FA Youth Cup games at Sunderland and Southampton, predominantly at left-back but he can also play at centre-back.

He's really strong at 1v1 duels and has good ability to affect all three thirds of the pitch from an attacking sense. He's had great exposure with us from a training and game perspective and he's one we're pretty confident will be able to slot straight into the programme.

Jayden Quashie: Midfielder
Jayden joined us from Junior Elite at the Under-10s stage and so has obviously played a lot of football throughout his time here at Fulham. He's another one who joined the Under-18s programme last season when he could and gained a good amount of minutes at this level.

He's a box-to-box central midfielder who's very balanced in terms of being able to affect the game with and without the ball. He has really good detail and quality around the box which helps him to create chances for his teammates.

Jon Esenga: Defender
Jon has been with us since pre-Academy, so he's come through the whole pathway. He's another one who had a lot of exposure as an Under-16 playing up a level. He played loads of football for the Under-18s last season as a schoolboy, predominantly at left-back but also at left centre-back.

He's comfortable in both of those positions and his biggest strength is his range of passing and ability to compliment the team from set-plays. He's a bit of a set-piece specialist, has great leadership skills and a strong ability to defend without the ball.

Josh King: Midfielder
Josh is another player we're proud of, coming up through all the age groups and featuring for the Under-18s on and off last season. He played in our FA Youth Cup games at Rochdale and Southampton.

He's also had international exposure with England at Under-16s level. He captained the young Three Lions in a recent double header against Italy and was vice-captain during a tournament win in Cyprus. He's a central midfielder who can help the team in build-up situations and he's really good on the ball. Josh can wriggle out of tight spaces, protect the ball, help us start attacks and also find that final ball.

He can score goals arriving into the box, as he did last season against Aston Villa for the Under-18s.

Samuel Amissah: Defender
Samuel joined us from Brentford when their Academy disbanded. He's a centre-back who can play on either side because he's comfortable on both feet and can distribute from the back efficiently. He's shown real strength is defending moments around the box and his man-marking is excellent.

He's another player we're hoping can slip straight into the 18s programme. Alongside Josh, he's had some good international experience with England and played in that tournament that they won.

Luca Picotto: Midfielder
Luca joined us at the start of the Youth Development Phase (YDP) and is an attacking-midfielder and/or winger. He's left-footed and so is someone who can roll off the wing.

He loves receiving the ball between lines and creating for the team and has been dipped in with the Under-18s a few times already. He's an exciting attacking player.

Eddie Nsasi: Defender
He's been here since the Foundation Phase which is great. He played a lot with the Under-18s during last year's pre-season and went to Portugal with the lads on tour.

He did really well and had a positive start to the season but unfortunately he picked up quite a significant injury in the Premier League Cup and so was out from early November.

He'll be hoping to find his feet, get fit and strong and pick up the momentum he gathered from the start of last season. He made a really good impression on us and is a strong defender who enjoys the basics of defending like getting tight to players, winning the ball and intercepting.

Farhaan Ali Wahid: Attacker
Farhaan joined us from Chelsea at Under-12s level. He's a really exciting winger who loves a 1v1 situation and taking players on. That's a huge part of his identity as a player and something we can all be really excited about. That, coupled with his ability to finish when chopping in or going down the outside, makes him an effective attacker.

He'll definitely add some artillery to the front line and he made his Under-18s debut at Rochdale last season. He'll be looking to build on that exposure over the next few weeks with us.

Samuel Tabares: Defender
Samuel joins us from Bradfield College after a successful trial period at the back end of last season. His strong performances across this time earnt him a full-time contract with the Academy and we're delighted that he will be with us permanently for the upcoming season.

Samuel is an excellent athlete who can play across different positions in the back line. He has good ability to defend 1v1 and will no doubt contribute towards helping the team keep clean sheets. On the ball, he is comfortable stepping out from the back to help the team progress possession.

Tom Wingate: Attacker
Tom is another one who joined us from Brentford. He's a prolific goalscorer and an out-and-out striker who has always scored goals throughout his time in the pathway. He can finish off both feet and do that with really good ability.

We're sure he'll be looking to learn off of Callum [Osmand] and Aaron [Loupalo-Bi] in particular in this age group. He made his debut in our 7-1 win away at Chelsea and he'll be looking to come in and show us what he can do in front of goal.

Oscar Varney: Goalkeeper
Oscar's been at Fulham right from the start too and he's continued to develop throughout the age groups. He's a good shot-stopper and he's been improving his use of the ball in terms of build-up, and he's one who we hope will continue to progress over time.

Dino Kaiser: Goalkeeper
Dino joined us from Queens Park Rangers just before Under-16s so he's relatively new to the programme. He made his debut for the Under-18s against Sheffield United in the Premier League Cup, coming on for Michael Allen towards the end of the game.

He understands the culture within the Academy now and what's expected, so he's a really talented goalkeeper who will be pushing for the number one spot as well as Monty [Conway] and Oscar [Varney] this season.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/13/Get-To-Know-Our-Scholars/

[WhiteJC]

Four potential replacements for Aleksandar Mitrovic

Jack Stroudley looks at some potential Mitro replacements.

Well, this was certainly not an article I was expecting to write. We've had reported interest in Palhinha and Silva, but the links to our Serbian striker certainly seem more concrete. According to the likes of Sky Sports, Fabrizio Romano and Peter Rutzler, Saudi based Al Hilal have had a £22.5 million bid rejected and while the club are adamant Mitrovic isn't for sale, our Serbian prince appears to be open to the move with more bids expected. If he is to leave, it would devastating for Fulham, and replacing him would be a tough task. I've decided to do a bit of research to try and find some options to potentially do that job.

1. Habib Diallo
This first option is current Strasbourg forward Habib Diallo. Aged 28, Diallo is coming into the peak of his powers and has just had a fantastic season in Ligue 1, scoring 20 goals and also picking up an assist. At 6ft, Diallo would be a physical presence up top (in the top 11% for aerial duels won) and allow Fulham to continue to play in the same manner. He's valued at around £17 million, so this is a player that Fulham should look to if Mitrovic leaves. Here's a statistical look at Diallo (in red) compared to Mitrovic (in blue). Those stats would have to translate to the English top flight, of course, but it's encouraging.



2. Moussa Dembele
MOU-SSA! Look, this one probably won't go down too well. Dembele left us for a paltry £500,000 back in 2016, and has since played in Scotland, France and Spain before being released by Lyon this summer. He hasn't been the most successful player, but on a free transfer we could certainly do worse. Despite being 6ft, Dembele and Mitrovic are very different players with the latter being far more physical. A slight change of style would be needed but at 27, Dembele is someone who is yet to reach his peak and by operating with the ball to his feet, Fulham could get the best out of him.



3. Santiago Gimenez
This one feels like a bit of pie in the sky, but it's someone who'd be very exciting for Fulham. Gimenez scored 15 goals for title-winning Feyenoord last season and at aged 22 looks a fantastic player. Gimenez was in the top 2% for non-penalty xG last season, top 5% for shots taken and the top 1% for touches in the opposition box. Feyenoord signed Gimenez for €4 million from Cruz Azul last summer and his valuation is currently €22 million (would cost a fair bit more though) and while he isn't identical to Mitrovic (Gimenez is only 5'9) he would certainly be someone to build a squad around.



4. Lois Openda
Again, another one who wouldn't do the same job as Mitrovic (surprise, surprise – it turns out Mitro is one of the best at what he does!) but is certainly a bagsman. Openda picked up 25 goal contributions for Lens last season and was in the top 7% for total shots as well as the top 18% for progressive carries. Openda is only 23 and will keep improving with age. Openda is valued at around €35 million and with a lengthy contract, Lens could demand more than that. The Belgian striker looks fantastic and while the price is a bit high, he is someone to build a team around for the future.





https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-07-13-four-potential-replacements-for-aleksandar-mitrovic/

[WhiteJC]

Nottingham Forest transfer news: Reds now convinced they can sign 'immense' player

Nottingham Forest are now confident of signing Willian on a free transfer. The winger has held face-to-face talks with Steve Cooper recently and things are progressing.

According to The Evening Standard, the Reds are now quietly convinced that they can sign the Brazilian. Fulham want him back at Craven Cottage too; whilst the player also has offers from Saudi Arabia to ponder.

At 34-years-old, Willian is hardly going to be a signing for the future. However, he enjoyed a steady campaign during 2022/23, scoring five goals and claiming six assists in 30 appearances for Fulham.

Marco Silva was a huge fan of Willian who scored against Forest during a 2-0 win in February. He called the player 'world-class' during an interview with ESPN.

Willian is a seasoned professional when it comes to the Premier League. He's also played for Arsenal and Chelsea; winning two Premier League titles and the Europa League during his time at Stamford Bridge.

When he was at Chelsea, Frank Lampard heaped praise on him. He called him 'immense' following a 4-1 win over Southampton back in 2019.

Forest are definitely on the lookout for another wide option this summer. Incidentally, Willian can operate on either flank or through the middle, as he did with Fulham last season.

It's not really clear why Fulham didn't tie him down sooner. He proved a useful player for them and it's perhaps surprising that they didn't act quicker, although he has rejected a new deal with them previously.

Forest confident of signing Willian
This one has come out of the blue somewhat. Willian has a number of clubs chasing him and he did prove last season that he can still play in the Premier League.

His goal in February against Forest was brilliant. It actually won the Goal of the Month award for that particular month in the Premier League and showcased that he's still got some quality.

It's not clear what the finances would be on this one. The report does say that the player will likely earn more than he did at Fulham with Forest and perhaps he's been convinced by the package.

Cooper speaking to him face-to-face will have helped too. The head coach has really bought into the ethos at Forest and he will be capable of convincing plenty of players to sign for the club.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2023/07/13/nottingham-forest-transfer-news-reds-now-convinced-they-can-sign-immense-player/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham 'step up interest in Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi' after Willian exit... as the out-of-favour winger asks to LEAVE the Blues this summer

    Fulham have stepped up their pursuit of Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi
    The wide-man spent last season on loan with Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen
    Mail Sport revealed Hudson-Odoi asked if he can leave the Blues this summer

Fulham will step up their pursuit of Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, according to reports.

The west London side are searching for a new wide-man in the transfer window after Willian's exit from the club earlier this summer.

The Brazilian winger rejected a one-year contract extension from Marco Silva's side and has since had a formal approach made by Nottingham Forest.

And, as the summer window continues to get underway, there is optimism that The Cottagers have found their replacement for the Brazilian already.

According to the Evening Standard, Willian's imminent move to Forest will give Fulham the edge in their pursuit of Hudson-Odoi.


Fulham are reportedly looking at Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi as a potential signing
 

Marco Silva's side are looking to bolster their attacking options in the summer transfer window

The winger has one year remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge but is seeking a new club ahead of next season.

The outlet claim that Hudson-Odoi will snub multiple offers from Saudi Arabia amid interest from Premier League sides Fulham, Forest and Crystal Palace.

Mail Sport revealed last week that Hudson-Odoi wants to leave Chelsea this summer in search of regular first-team football.

The England international spent last season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen but has returned to Chelsea, where he is set to start pre-season.

However, there is an acknowledgement that Hudson-Odoi needs to be playing consistent senior football, a prospect that may not be forthcoming under Mauricio Pochettino next season.

The 22-year-old has been at Chelsea since the age of eight, but he is now set to leave his boyhood club.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12294765/Fulham-step-Callum-Hudson-Odoi-Willian-exit.html

[WhiteJC]

Everton transfer news as Fulham and Inter Milan to battle it out for Alex Iwobi

Everton attacker Alex Iwobi is reportedly on the transfer radar of Fulham and Serie A giants Inter Milan this summer window.

According to Football Transfers [13 July], clubs are taking a look at the Nigeria international and have sounded out the Toffees over a price as well.

The 27-year-old is now in the final year of his contract and if he does not sign an extension, this will be the last summer they can demand a fee for his services.

Must keep him
Iwobi has showcased his ability to play in different positions and deliver consistently for the Toffees over the course of last season.

Frank Lampard used him as a central midfielder and he was among the Premier League's best in that role for a considerable amount of time.

Under Sean Dyche, he has played out wide, but there's a feeling that if a quality wide attacker or two is brought in this summer, he could be tucked centrally, playing as an eight.

He's one of the most talented players in the squad and the hierarchy needs to be doing everything that it can to tie him down to a new deal.

He even won the Players' Player of the Year Award so it's evident that his teammates value his contributions on the pitch.

Dyche needs to have conversations with him about building this side for the future and he needs to make the Nigerian front and centre of those plans.

If he does want to leave, Fulham are owned by a billionaire in Shahid Khan and they can afford to spend big on signing him.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/07/13/everton-transfer-news-as-fulham-and-inter-milan-to-battle-it-out-for-alex-iwobi/

[WhiteJC]

Tottenham offer gets 'resounding no' – West Ham and Fulham now tentatively moving for player
One of the first matters Ange Postecoglou appears to have wanted to address after he took over at Tottenham was the revamping of the defence.

Spurs had brought in players for Antonio Conte's plans, and while some players will stay, some will be sold and replaced.

One of the desired centre-backs appears to have been Roger Ibañez, currently at AS Roma in Italy, but the first attempt from Tottenham to sign him didn't go to plan, while West Ham United and Fulham are also keen, courtesy of Roma Giallorossa.

The Italian website look at the situation around the Brazilian, and explain that 'no concrete offers' have arrived for the defender 'in recent days'.

They did get a bid from Tottenham of €22m, but that was 'a week ago' and was met with a 'resounding no' by Tiago Pinto, who wants a bit more than that.

West Ham and Fulham are also keen, with both clubs have made 'enquiries' for the defender, and there's even hope the interest from the Hammers could be used in Roma's favour, as they seek a deal for Gianluca Scamacca.

The Serie A side have dropped their valuation of Ibañez from €35m to €30m, but there's a feeling that they could close at €25m if that was all paid up front.

Right now, regardless of the interest from West Ham, Fulham or even Tottenham, the main aim is to sell him and 'monetise' an exit, with no rush on when that happens, as Tiago Pinto waits 'for the best offer', even if it means it arriving in late JUly.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/tottenham-offer-gets-resounding-no-west-ham-fulham-now-tentatively-moving-player/

[WhiteJC]

West Ham or Fulham can sign World Cup star for £2.5m amid Bellingham comparison

Fortuna Dusseldorf could sell Ao Tanaka for just £2.5 million this summer with Premier League rivals West Ham United and Fulham keen on the Japan international.

Ao Tanaka's dramatic winner against Spain in the Qatar World Cup will not be remembered solely for his smart, back post finish (did the ball cross the line in the build-up?) but the history books will always show that it was he who fired Japan into the knockout stages while sending one of the pre-tournament favourites, Germany, packing.

Should West Ham or Fulham get their mitts on Tanaka this summer, however, do not expect many goals from a man responsible for arguably Japan's most iconic World Cup moment.

The versatile midfielder scored only once for Fortuna Dusseldorf in 2022/23. His game is more about keeping the ball moving in the central areas, providing a link between defence and attack, and snapping into tackles, that Spanish stunner more the exception than the rule.

Ao Tanaka could help West Ham move on from Declan Rice
The Bundesliga website even likened the Tanaka to Real Madrid superstar Jude Bellingham; arguably the most complete young central midfielder in world football.

Tanaka, meanwhile, does not appear entirely keen on spending another season in Germany's second tier. BILD and the Rheinische Post report that West Ham and Fulham are willing to offer the former Kawasaki Frontale ace the chance to play first-team football in Europe for the very first time.

"There's movement there. There's an interest in these players," Fortuna coach Daniel Thioune says while discussing Tanaka's future.

"If the players go somewhere, they should be in top condition. I have a clear agreement with all the players on that. At the end of the day, they are under contract with us and are rewarded for it. I can also expect performance and willingness there."

If Tanaka's performances in pre-season are anything to go by, the wantaway-midfielder is not going to let the speculation surrounding him affect his performances.

BILD, meanwhile, believe £2.5 million could be enough for Fortuna to sell. West Ham would have no problems stumping up such a fee. Particularly with Declan Rice's departure set to earn the Hammers upwards of £100 million.

Tanaka would not replace Rice directly. But he could help David Moyes move on, and add more depth to his midfield options.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/07/13/west-ham-or-fulham-can-sign-world-cup-star-for-2-5m-amid-bellingham-comparison/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham defender reveals 'difficult' time at former club – Feels clubs should provide more help for 'mental aspect' of life
Fulham defender Kenny Tete has revealed how his struggles at former club Olympique Lyon, despite his three-year spell with the French side.

The full-back has been speaking to Voetbalzone and journalist Jelle Kusters about mental health and the battles he's had in his career so far.

He started his career in the Netherlands before moving to Ajax Youth in 2005, where he remained until 2017, moving up the various youth ranks over the 12 years he was there and making 55 appearances for the first team.

He moved to Lyon for €3.2m in 2017 and make 80 appearances for the French club in a three-year period but his time there is considered as a difficult one, something he has discussed in the past.

He's now explained why that was the case, revealing his struggles and the problems he faced in a new country.

"What was so difficult in France? You are a young boy, and you are leaving," he said.

"A lot is changing, and a lot of things are coming your way. I didn't play all the time, there was a language barrier... It's difficult.

"Sometimes it feels like you are on an island. That is also just a period you have to go through."

The subject of mental health in football has become an important one in recent years, with more and more footballers revealing their battles with mental health.

That has been widely welcomed by fans and those outside of the game, who believe it is healthy for football stars to speak on the subject.

It has led to an increased focus on the 'mental aspect' of the game, with most clubs now employing therapists, sports psychologists, and mental health professionals to work with their squads and even coaching staff.

Tete believes there should be more of that and has called for more clubs to provide help for the 'mental aspect of life.'

"We had someone who helped us with the mental aspect before," he added.

"If you had questions, you could sit down with him and discuss things. At the moment we don't have anyone for that at Fulham.

"Do I do something about my mental well-being? I do have certain people I can have conversations with. Sure."



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-defender-reveals-difficult-time-former-club-feels-clubs-provide-help-mental-aspect-life/

[WhiteJC]

Chelsea forward Callum Hudson-Odoi wanted at Fulham after snubbing Saudi move

Fulham are confident of signing Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi after the player rejected an offer from Saudi Arabia.

    Fulham look set to lose winger Willian
    Fulham would look to Hudson-Odoi as his replacement
    Winger has snubbed interest from Saudi Arabia

WHAT HAPPENED? Chelsea have already decided to offload Hudson-Odoi and the winger could be making the short trip to Fulham. The Cottager could lose Brazilian winger Willian to Nottingham Forest, freeing up space to sign Hudson-Odoi. The Evening Standard reports that the 22-year-old winger has rejected interest from Saudi Arabia to remain in the Premier League and has domestic interest from Fulham, Forest and Crystal Palace.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Hudson-Odoi could become the latest players to leave Chelsea this summer as the London club continue to streamline their bloated squad under new manager Mauricio Pochettino. The winger has a year left on his current Chelsea deal and spent last season on loan in the Bundesliga.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/chelsea-forward-callum-hudson-odoi-wanted-at-fulham-after-snubbing-saudi-move/blte43ddd2f3410eefb

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Chelsea 'make decision on Willian return' as transfer details come to light
Chelsea saw Willian shine during his spell at Stamford Bridge, with the Brazil international a key player before leaving in 2020.

Chelsea have turned down the chance to re-sign Willian, it has been claimed. The Brazil international previously spent seven years in the capital between 2013 and 2020. However, while he impressed for Fulham last season, a return to Stamford Bridge isn't on the cards.

Willian joined Fulham last year from Corinthians following the Cottagers' promotion to the Premier League.

And the Brazil international dazzled in west London last term, scoring five goals and clocking up 10 assists from 27 Premier League matches.

Right now, Willian's future at Craven Cottage is up in the air.

The veteran is currently a free agent and, according to Di Marzio, has turned down a new Fulham contract as he considers his options.

It's also said that Willian has been offered to Chelsea but the Blues have turned down the chance to re-sign the winger.

Given their huge squad, that's perhaps understandable.



https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1790663/Chelsea-transfer-news-Willian

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Fulham: Whites "leading the chase" for Harwood-Bellis
The English rising star has just won an Under-21 European Championship title.

Fulham and Nottingham Forest are "leading the chase" for exciting young Man City defender Taylor Harwood-Bellis, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.

Who will Fulham sign?
The west Londoners are yet to confirm an official signing this summer despite reports in the media linking them with a host of fresh faces over the last few weeks.

Marco Silva's side are fresh off the back of a positive first full campaign back in the top flight, coming after they secured promotion from the Championship last year.

Fulham contended for a European place and even finished above cross-town rivals Chelsea in the table, so Silva will be looking to build upon the many positives of that campaign.

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, USA international Sergino Dest, Valencia midfielder Yunus Musah, Roma defender Roger Ibanez and Man United's Fred have all been linked with moves to Craven Cottage recently.

Meanwhile, star Fulham players like Joao Palhinha won't be prised away by elite English sides so easily, with Silva and co set to demand around £90 million for him according to some reports in the media.

As clubs eye a move for defender Tosin Adarabioyo as well, it is believed Fulham are chasing the signing of a new central defender, leading to their links with the likes of Ibanez.

Another centre-half attracting Fulham's attention is Harwood-Bellis, with the 21-year-old playing a key role as England's Under-21s won their first European Championship in nearly 40 years recently.

The City starlet was a "star" of Burnley's promotion campaign during his loan spell last season, as explained by journalist Bailey in a column for 90min.

Expanding on his links to Fulham, Bailey claims they're "leading the chase" for Harwood-Bellis alongside league rivals Forest, with both sides emerging as front runners for his signature.

He has just one year left on his contract, which is due to expire in 2024, putting a host of clubs on red alert - including other potential suitors like Newcastle, West Ham and Burnley.

How good is Taylor Harwood-Bellis?
The exciting young defender lead England's U-21s to their first European title in decades.

Harwood-Bellis' stock is only rising, especially after his leading role for Burnley last campaign, with Man City legend and Clarets boss Vincent Kompany holding him in high esteem.

The Belgian heaped praise on Harwood-Bellis' "incredible" drive and insisted that he is only going to get better an better as the years go on.

"I've known Taylor [Harwood-Bellis] for a long time," said Kompany.

"So what everyone can see on the ball or what everyone can see when he goes into his challenges, I think his biggest quality, that is perhaps more difficult to see on the eye, is his leadership and his incredible drive and high standards.

"These kinds of players you can almost be certain are going to improve. Usually when a talent goes wrong it's because there's something mentally not right. With him he's got that more than anyone else. Wherever he is now, in two or three years time he will be a lot better."

City are apparently set to demand around £15 million for his services, a price tag which may well be worth considering given the youngster's obvious quality.



https://www.footballfancast.com/premier-league-fulham-transfer-news-man-city-taylor-harwood-bellis/

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Saudi Arabian Sides Making No Progress In Swoop For Fulham And Nottingham Forest Target

Clubs in Saudi Arabia have made no progress in their pursuit of Nottingham Forest and Fulham target Willian, according to the Athletic.

Following the acquisition of four of the leading clubs by the Saudi sovereign wealth fund, there have been significant signings made by the clubs in Saudi Arabia in recent times.

Saudi clubs have secured the services of renowned players such as Karim Benzema, N'Golo Kante, Marcelo Brozovic and many other notable names.

With a reputation for being a potential destination for stars in the footballing world, clubs in Saudi Arabia have expressed their interest in signing Willian.

Willian made a move to Fulham from Corinthians in September 2022 and in the previous Premier League season, he appeared in 27 matches, where he scored five goals and provided six assists.

Despite being targeted by Saudi clubs, the Brazilian winger remains unsigned after his contract with Fulham expired in June 2023.

Apart from Saudi Arabia, Fulham have presented two proposals to Willian, offering him the opportunity to extend his stay for another year, while Nottingham Forest have also shown interest in the 34-year-old winger.

Considering the uncertainty surrounding Willian's future in England, Saudi Arabia could emerge as a potential destination for him, given their proven ability to convince star players to join their ranks.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/07/13/saudi-arabian-sides-making-no-progress-in-swoop-for-fulham-and-nottingham-forest-target/610670/

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Fulham's £18m offer for Benfica defender Morato is rejected - with Brazil U20 international keen to make Premier League switch

    Talks have been ongoing between Fulham and Benfica for 22-year-old Morato
    The Brazilian youngster has already informed Benfica of his wish to leave Lisbon
    It remains to be seen whether Fulham will make an improved offer for Morato

Fulham have had an £18million offer for Benfica defender Morato rejected by the Portuguese side.

Talks have been ongoing between the two clubs for the Brazil Under-20 international with the Cottagers submitting an offer for the centre-back.

But Benfica have rebuffed the proposal from the Premier League side with talks now set to continue.

Mail Sport understands that Morato wants to join Fulham ahead of next season and has already informed Benfica of his wish to leave Lisbon for Craven Cottage.

It now remains to be seen whether Fulham make an improved offer for Morato, who has been identified by head coach Marco Silva as a target as he looks to bolster his defence.


Fulham have had an £18million offer for Benfica defender Morato rejected by the Lisbon side
 

Talks have been ongoing between the two clubs for the Brazil Under-20 international

Morato endured a mixed season at the Portuguese giants in 2022-23, restricted to just nine league appearances, but featured in 21 games across all competitions - contributing to 11 clean sheets.

Having started the first four games, a sprained ankle put him on the sidelines meaning he could not play in the top-flight until after the new year.

Morato joined Benfica four years ago from Brazilian giants Sao Paulo, and has since gone on to play 50 times for the senior team, scoring twice.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12295643/Fulhams-18m-offer-Benfica-defender-Morato-rejected.html

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Fulham 'willing to formulate' first offer for centre-back – 'Will not exceed €20m'
AS Roma defender Roger Ibañez is apparently drawing big interest from the Premier League, and on Thursday morning, we saw a report saying Fulham are keen on his signing.

The Whites reportedly made an enquiry for the centre-back, but there was no information about an official offer just yet.

Now as outlet Forza Roma features a story on this chase, they claim that even though the likes of Atletico Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur have 'withdrawn' from the race, Fulham's interest 'remains'.

The big problem for the transfer is Roma's request. The Giallorossi even dropped the player's price, giving a discount in their previous €30-35m demands, but that's still a lot for the interested clubs.

Forza Roma writes that Fulham seem 'willing to formulate' their first offer for Ibanez, but the Whites' bid 'will not exceed €20m'.

So there's clearly a big gap between the numbers on the table, and we shall see if there's any chance the clubs can find a common ground.

This is the second Serie A player Fulham are going after, albeit unsuccessfully, as they're also having problems to match the requests for Fiorentina's Igor.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-willing-formulate-first-offer-centre-back-will-not-exceed-e20m/

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Brighton in 'open negotiations' to sign Brazilian defender – Club 'want €20m', intermediaries 'at work'
Brighton & Hove Albion seem to suddenly be taking the lead in the race for Fiorentina defender Igor.

The centre-back has been linked with several clubs this year, with the likes of Fulham, Brentford and Leeds United all said to be interested in him as well.

It turns out that as outlet Fiorentina News today features the quotes from journalist Enzo Bucchioni on Radio Bruno, it's said it's actually Brighton who are now moving for the signing.

The reporter claimed that there are already talks going on for the move, and the Seagulls may actually take an advantage from Fulham's unsuccessful attempt.

"Brighton are on Igor, we are in open negotiations, the intermediaries are at work," said Enzo Bucchioni.

"Fiorentina want €20m and Fulham's offer was too low."

The interest thing is that Brighton's interest in Igor had actually been revealed in January, but in the past few weeks, the Italian media had only been focusing on Fulham's interest in the player.

The Craven Cottage side, though, are finding big difficulty in matching Fiorentina's request for the transfer, and seem unlikely to do it.

So depending on how strong Brighton move, they may find an open path for the summer signing.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/brighton-open-negotiations-sign-brazilian-defender-club-want-e20m-intermediaries-work/