Saturday Fulham Stuff - 15/07/23...

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Fulham in talks to sign Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi and highly rated Brazilian midfielder Andre from Fluminense... but have an £18m offer rejected for Benfica defender Morato

    Fulham are in talks to sign winger Callum Hudson-Odoi from Chelsea
    Additionally, they are attempting to sign midfielder Andre from Fluminense
    Benfica have rejected their £18m bid for centre-back Morato but he wants to join

Fulham are in talks to sign Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi and Brazilian midfielder Andre, 21, from Fluminense.

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

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.


Fulham are in talks to sign out-of-favour Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi
 

Fulham target Andre, of Fluminense, was in the Brazilian league's 2022 team of the year
 

Defender Morato hopes to join the Cottagers but Benfica have rejected their £18 bid for hi

Meanwhile, the Cottagers face fierce competition for Fluminense midfielder Andre Trindade, with Barcelona, Liverpool, Atletico Madrid, Spurs, and West Ham all holding talks with representatives in recent months.

He was in the Brazilian league's team of the year in 2022. Fulham are confident of securing his services and are making strong advances.

It has been a frustrating transfer window for Fulham, who are yet to bring in any fresh faces.

They have had an £18m offer for Benfica defender Morato rejected but the Brazilian has informed Benfica he wishes to join Fulham.

Morato, 22, has played in the Champions League and won the Primeira Liga last season with the Eagles, though only as a bit-part player.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12297615/Fulham-talks-sign-Chelsea-winger-Callum-Hudson-Odoi-club-exploring-options-Willians-contract-expiry.html

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Everton coach lifts lid on Dominic Calvert-Lewin fitness 'issues' and new recovery plan

EXCLUSIVE: The ECHO's Chris Beesley speaks to first team coach Steve Stone at Everton's training base by the shores of Lake Geneva about Dominic Calvert-Lewin's fitness plan and the need for a focal point to the attack

First team coach Steve Stone insists the goal is to get Dominic Calvert-Lewin back to his fitness levels of two years ago rather than fretting on whether Everton's number nine is available for their Premier League opener against Fulham on August 12.

With less than a month to go now until the Blues kick-off their 2023/24 campaign at home to former manager Marco Silva's Cottagers, their number nine is facing another race against time to be in contention after suffering a hamstring injury at Wolverhampton Wanderers on May 20. Calvert-Lewin missed Everton's first nine matches last term and has played fewer than half of the games in both of the past two Premier League seasons.

Although the centre-forward has so far yet to score from open play under Sean Dyche, the Blues' attack looked far more potent with him in the side and Stone acknowledges they've suffered when Calvert-Lewin has been absent. Speaking at their training camp by the shores of Lake Geneva, he told the ECHO: "There's definitely a spring in the step in terms of getting the boys around the place, it's really important that we put last season behind us and we have to look forward to it.

"It was emotional from the end of the season really. If we look at from Abdoulaye Doucoure's goal went in, there was the relief and then the five weeks off which was really emotional given what we'd all been through but you've got to put that behind you and we go again now.

"When we got here we realised we had a good squad and the issues that we've had have been with Dominic's situation where we haven't been able to get a centre-forward on the pitch on a regular basis. That's key for any team and I think we need to address that in terms of us needing a focal point at the top end of the pitch, whether that's Dominic, Neal Maupay or Demarai Gray, whoever that is you need a focal point.

"What we showed is that behind the scenes we've got a strong structural unit who are strong at set-plays and defending but we need that focal point at the top end and if we can get that right, we think we've got the players who can deliver like Dwight McNeil and Alex Iwobi who we feel are real top quality players. It's very difficult if you haven't got somebody to put the balls into at the top end of the pitch.

"If you go one goal down, you're always looking that if you haven't got anyone up there it becomes really difficult because every time a goal goes in you think: 'Well how are we going to get one back?' If you look at towards the end of the season, like the Brighton performance, you realise that there are goals in the team and if we can score goals then defensively we can be strong and structured to keep teams out."

While Calvert-Lewin is still playing catch-up compared to some of his team-mates in terms of sharpness, Stone maintains that Everton's management team are more concerned with a longer term strategy with the player. He said: "Dominic always looks great. He's probably a couple of weeks away from joining back in with us because of what happened at the back end of last season.

"Dominic probably needs time. We don't come out now and go 'We need to play Dominic Calvert-Lewin right now.'

"We don't need to put the pressure on Dominic all the time. I would say you probably need other options in your team, if you look at other Premier League teams, a lot of them have three or four strikers who they can rely on, especially if you're playing a 4-4-2.

"Dominic is a little bit behind the rest at the minute in terms of where he's at but that is to be expected, we knew that from the end of last season. It's not about if Dominic is going to be fit for the first game of the season, it's can we get Dominic 'fit fit' and we mean really fit like he was two years ago so when we play him you go 'oh yeah.'

"I saw Dominic like that for a couple of games this year. The first half at home to Arsenal when we first arrived and the 5-1 win at Brighton and you looked at him and thought 'you're some player son, you're a really, really good player.'

"That was him probably at 75-80% fit at the time. If we can get Dominic 'fit fit' so he can start lasting games, not having to come off and get these injuries, then you've got a player on your hands but at the minute he's just a little bit behind the rest.

"That's normal in pre-season and Seamus (Coleman) is a couple of months behind and Patto (Nathan Patterson) is a little bit behind after his injury at the end of last season and that's what pre-season is for. A fit Dominic is a real handful and I'm looking forward to working with him on a regular basis because we didn't at the end of last season and there are issues that we need to address at the top end of the pitch in terms of scoring goals and he's all about that."

Now 51, Stone overcame three broken legs as a player at Nottingham Forest to establish himself as an England international and believes as Calvert-Lewin approaches the stage of his career in which he will start to be classed as a senior player, he'll get to understand his body better and how he can learn to live with the various aches and pains that come with the territory when you're a professional footballer. He said: "I've been through loads of injuries in my time where I've broken my leg, been out for nine months and then you second guess yourself. The more training you do, the more games you play, the more confidence you get, not only in your own ability but the injury itself and away you go and before you know it, you're not even thinking about anything.

"You have to go through that process and it can take some time. It can take six-to-eight weeks after the hamstring injuries he's had towards the end of last season, until he feels he can sprint 100% because it's always at the back end of your mind.

"I had it myself towards the end of my career when I pulled a hamstring three or four times and when I trained I always felt like 'it's going to go again', it just gets in your head like that until one day you train hard enough without even thinking about it. Dominic has got to go through that himself because as players we are always reassuring them and he's got a great medical team here too who have worked really, really hard and given him the opportunity to look at his own rehab and what's gone right.

"He's 26 years of age and he's now starting to know his own body. When a player knows his own body, he can start to gauge when things are right or wrong and Dominic is at that age now."



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/exclusive-calvert-lewin-steve-stone-27317763

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West Ham: Hammers interested in signing Ao Tanaka
The Japanese star is also wanted by Fulham this summer.

West Ham are reportedly battling with Fulham for the signing of Fortuna Dusseldorf midfielder Ao Tanaka this summer, according to a fresh update.

Who is Ao Tanaka?
The 24-year-old is currently plying his trade with Dusseldorf in Germany, making 39 starts in the Bundesliga 2 over the past two seasons, shining at the heart of his side's midfield. He has also won 19 caps at international level for Japan, scoring three goals in that time and also appearing three times at the 2022 World Cup, starting two of his country's matches.

It could be that Tanaka is interested in a move away from Dusseldorf during the current transfer window, however, even though his current deal there doesn't expire until the end of the 2024/25 season. A move to a top league is likely to appeal, and it looks as though a switch to the Premier League could potentially be on the cards in the coming weeks.

That's where West Ham come into play, as David Moyes aims to conduct some strong transfer business before the start of the 2023/24 campaign, looking to build on their fantastic UEFA Europa Conference League success last term.

Would West Ham sign Ao Tanaka this summer?
According to Rheinische Post [via Sport Witness], the Hammers are in the conversation to sign Tanaka this summer, but they won't have a clear path when it comes to snapping him up. Fulham are also credited with interest, with West Ham's London rivals also eyeing squad reinforcements with the new Premier League season looming.

It is reportedly "no secret" that Dusseldorf expect to lose the Japan international in the near future because he himself "wants to leave" in the current window. Only €3m (£2.5m) would supposedly be required to prise him away from his current team, making it a cheap piece of business.

Tanaka wouldn't necessarily be a marquee signing by West Ham in the summer, considering he isn't exactly a household name, but he could be a shrewd addition who help fill some of the void left by Declan Rice, assuming his big-money move to Arsenal is eventually announced sooner rather than later.

He has proven himself at a World Cup, averaging one tackle and aerial duel win apiece as last year's tournament, and he is at a good age to come in and bolster the Hammers' squad options, potentially maturing as a player over time and also excelling alongside better players to the ones at Dusseldorf.

In fact, Tanaka was even handed the Player of the Match award after Japan's unforgettable 2-1 victory over Spain at the World Cup, in which he score the winning goal and generally excelled throughout - this should excite West Ham fans who could otherwise potentially feel underwhelmed about the east Londoners signing him.

Granted, signing him alone won't help make up for the incoming huge loss of Rice, who has been such a dominant performer in the middle of the park over the years, but it is a case of finding a number of quality new players in that area, in order to fully make up for his exit.



https://www.footballfancast.com/west-ham-hammers-premier-league-ao-tanaka-transfer-news-updates/

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European giants 'make offer' for Man Utd star linked with Fulham; Ten Hag has already found a replacement
Galatasaray have reportedly made an offer for Manchester United midfielder Fred, amid interest from Fulham and other Premier League clubs.

The 30-year-old has been deemed surplus to requirements by Erik ten Hag and is expected to be sold this summer.

In fact, the manager is expected to offload multiple players as he looks to generate cash to fund his own additions.

For instance, the likes of Harry Maguire, Alex Telles, Scott McTominay and several others have all been linked with departures from Man Utd recently.

Fred is one of the most likely to leave, though. As previously reported by Football365, the Brazilian is a key target for Fulham, with Marco Silva thought to be a big fan of his.

However, it seems the Cottagers have some fresh competition for Fred's signature this summer.

According to reputed transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Turkish club Galatasaray have made an offer for the midfielder.

On Twitter, Romano said: "EXCL: Galatasaray have approached Manchester United to sign Fred!

"Opening proposal already submitted — rejected by Man United, transfer fee was below expectations.

"Fred will leave United this summer as Saudi clubs, Fulham and more PL clubs are already working on it."

It isn't clear how much Man Utd want for Fred but they will be looking to recoup as much of the £52m they spent on him in 2018.

Since then, the centre-mid has made 213 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils. In the process, he has scored 14 goals and made 19 assists.

Last season, Fred saw his playing time diminish due to the arrival of players like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen. Now, it seems Man Utd could look to bring in another midfielder.

Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat is one player who has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford. Reports suggest that personal terms have already been agreed with Old Trafford.

As noted by our friends at TEAMtalk, Amrabat has now requested to leave Fiorentina to join Man Utd. His price is reportedly €30m (£25.6m), which is lower than the Italian club's former stance of €30m (£25.6m).

Fiorentina are also in a relatively strong position even though Amrabat's contract expires in the summer of 2024, with a clause in his deal meaning they can trigger a one-year extension.

Ten Hag has worked with Amrabat during their time together at Dutch club Utrecht and is thought to be keen on a reunion. Therefore, it wouldn't be a surprise to see him replace Fred with the Morocco international.

With that in mind, Fred and Amrabat are two players Man Utd fans should keep an eye on over the next few days.



https://www.football365.com/news/european-giants-make-offer-man-utd-star-fulham-ten-hag-replacement

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Fulham looking to seal deal to sign Hudson-Odoi
Fulham are looking to tie up a deal to sign Callum Hudson-Odoi from Chelsea.

Several clubs are interested in signing the 22-year-old this summer and he could stay in west London, with the Whites keen to snap him up.

Hudson-Odoi has a year remaining on his Chelsea contract but is determined to move on and play regular first-team football.

He was on loan at German club Bayer Leverkusen last season and is now in line for a return to the Premier League.

He has made 72 league appearances for Chelsea but been unable to establish himself as a first-team regular at the club.



https://www.westlondonsport.com/chelsea/fulham-looking-to-seal-deal-to-sign-hudson-odoi

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'Said yes' – Fulham player has 'accepted' transfer offer, clubs need agreement
Two days ago, we covered a claim from Serbia's Informer that Al Hilal SFC have made a €40m bid to sign Fulham star Aleksandar Mitrović in the summer window.

It was also said the striker hasn't yet made a final decision but is very close to accepting the three-year deal worth €25m per season.

Taking to Twitter, Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna has now provided an update on this case. He says the 28-year-old has 'said yes' to Al Hilal and has 'accepted' the three-year deal proposed by them.

The Middle Eastern side now have to find an agreement with Fulham to conclude the deal in this window.

That hasn't happened so far because Marco Silva's side have already rejected their offer and haven't yet received any new bid from Al Hilal, who have signed Sergej Milinković-Savić earlier this week.

🚨⚫️⚪️🇷🇸 #PL |

◉ Aleksandar Mitrovic said yes to join Al-Hilal. He has accepted a 3-year contract

◉ The first offer from the Saudis was rejected by Fulham. No new bids have been received by The Cottagers for now. pic.twitter.com/NDt70cJxVC

— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 14, 2023

The Serbia international was leading Fulham's strike force last season, and managed 15 goals and four assists from 28 games. His exit would be a blow for both Silva and the English club.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/said-yes-fulham-player-accepted-offer-made-another-club-deal-needs-agreed-silvas-side/

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Stadium Tours To Return

Craven Cottage Tours will resume from Monday 7th August!

Following planned maintenance work, the Club is pleased to announce that Stadium Tours will be resuming next month with bookings now open.

The tour, which commences outside the Johnny Haynes Statue on Stevenage Road, takes you to all the key locations around the ground including the home and away dressing rooms, the historic Cottage itself and much more!

Book your place now to go behind the scenes of London's Original Football Club.

Stadium tours take place frequently throughout the week, with more information available on our tours page.

Supporters can book their space online, by emailing [email protected] or by calling 0203 841 9057.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/14/stadium-tours-to-return/

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Willian could help Chelsea sell Callum Hudson-Odoi this summer

Willian could be the unlikely figure to facilitate the departure of Callum Hudson-Odoi from Chelsea, as the Premier League champions consider selling the young winger to cross-town rivals Fulham this summer.

According to The Evening Standard, Fulham and Nottingham Forest have both expressed interest in bolstering their wide options during the current transfer window. The clubs have identified Hudson-Odoi and Willian as potential targets to strengthen their attacking forces.

While Forest remain optimistic about securing the services of the 34-year-old free agent Willian, it seems Fulham are determined to outshine their counterparts in the race to sign the Brazilian maestro.

The Evening Standard suggests that if Willian were to join Nottingham Forest, it would inadvertently give Fulham an advantage in their pursuit of Callum Hudson-Odoi. The young Englishman, who is just 22 years old, is believed to have rejected lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia in favour of remaining in the Premier League.

Crystal Palace and Forest are the other top-flight English sides mentioned as potential suitors for the promising winger. It comes as no surprise that there are a queue of clubs vying for Hudson-Odoi's signature this summer.

The winger is currently training away from the main group at Cobham, indicating a potential rift between the player and the club. Hudson-Odoi for all the potential and hype has been unable to showcase it at Stamford Bridge and it might be time to break the ties and move in separate directions.

Nottingham Forest are eyeing a £10m for Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

Marco Silva's Fulham could provide the ideal destination for the young attacker to revitalize his career and fulfil his enormous potential. The London-based club possesses a manager renowned for his ability to develop young talents and extract the best out of them.

It appears Chelsea is open to the possibility of offloading the winger. This decision may be influenced by the club's desire to balance the books and potentially reinvest the funds into other areas of the squad.

While it remains to be seen whether Willian's potential move to Nottingham Forest materializes, it is clear that his transfer could play a crucial role in Fulham's pursuit of Hudson-Odoi. Chelsea will be hoping that their former star can do them a favour by doing just that.



https://www.astamfordbridgetoofar.com/2023/07/willian-could-help-chelsea-sell-callum-hudson-odoi-this-summer/

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Everton, Nottingham Forest and Fulham all keen on 14-goal forward – Need to make him forget favourite club
With claims that Iliman Ndiaye is heading closer to an exit this summer despite Sheffield United getting promoted back to the Premier League, the Blades have targeted a new striker in Bénie Traoré.

The Bramall Lane star has been linked with a move to Marseille in the south of France, which is a club he is a huge fan of, but there have also been claims he could head to another Premier League club, with Everton, Nottingham Forest and Fulham all interested.

This comes via L'Equipe on Friday, who look at the future of the Sheffield United forward from the perspective of Marseille and where negotiations currently at.

They bring up the interest from Everton, Nottingham Forest and Fulham in there, which we'll get back to later, but the feeling is, at least at this moment in time, he is likelier to be heading to Ligue 1.

An 'unconditional fan' of Marseille, Ndiaye is said to have seduced those in charge of transfers there through his great season with Sheffield United.

The 23-year-old was undoubtedly one of the stars of the show last season at Bramall Lane, during which he scored 14 goals and assisted another 11 in 46 league games.
They write that 'an agreement would be practically sealed' between club and player regarding a transfer, while 'first talks' have kicked off between the two sides to 'find a common ground' on the transfer fee.

However, there are 'numerous competitors' for the signing, which is when Everton (in search for a new striker), Fulham (who might have a new need to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic) and Nottingham Forest (always looking for fresh blood) are all named.

That's why Marseille 'will need to be convincing' and likely creative in finding the money needed to surpass Premier League competition, even if they seemingly have the player on their side for the time being.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/everton-nottingham-forest-fulham-keen-14-goal-forward-need-make-forget-favourite-club/

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Fulham have 'advanced in the negotiations' with player – Belief he will sign renewal 'soon'
Fulham believe they will complete a renewal agreement with Willian 'soon' after they 'advanced in the negotiations' with the Brazilian.

That's according to UOL, who say Fulham have improved the proposal to the player for him to remain at Craven Cottage for another season.

They explain that negotiations between the club and Willian to extend his deal, which expired at the end of last season, began weeks ago but have become complicated after Nottingham Forest showed an interest in him.

Willian was a key player for Fulham last season after returning to England from an unsuccessful spell at Corinthians, bagging five goals and five assists in 30 games.

He was one of the 'main highlights' of the campaign and Fulham have been keen to extend his stay into a second season.

However, several reports have made it clear that Willian was unhappy with the deal offered to him, having accepted a lower offer last year to return to England and then expected that to be improved upon this year.

It has led to suggestions he could move elsewhere in the Premier League, with Nottingham Forest apparently keen, but UOL say Fulham are calm over keeping their man and getting him signed to a new deal.

According to their information, the London club have advanced in the conversations with the player and are confident he will sign with them soon.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-advanced-negotiations-player-belief-will-sign-renewal-soon/

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Brazilian Prodigy on Verge of Shock Move to Fulham
Fulham Set Their Sights on Brazilian Sensation Andre Trindade

Fulham Shows Persistent Interest in Andre Trindade
Fulham's drive to sign Andre Trindade, Brazil's emerging international midfielder, continues undeterred. Despite a missed opportunity to secure the Fluminense talent in the January transfer window, the West London club's ambition remains strong.

The stumbling block to sealing a deal for the 21-year-old in the winter was a slightly less than £20m offer. The price tag on this prized possession has since escalated, with an agreement likely to land closer to the £25m mark. The value inflation isn't surprising as Andre has debuted internationally since Fulham's initial offer, arousing the interest of top-flight clubs globally.

The Competition Intensifies
According to sources at 90min, an impressive lineup of clubs – Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, Arsenal, Tottenham, and West Ham – have been on the receiving end of conversations with Andre's team over recent months. Yet, in the race to this promising finish line, it's Fulham showing conviction and optimism about finalising the deal.

A Busy Transfer Window for Fulham
While Fulham's quest for Andre Trindade continues, their interest in fellow Brazilian and Fiorentina defender, Igor, is also noteworthy. However, Fulham's summer transfer market breakthrough remains elusive so far. The Londoners' aspiration to sign Manor Solomon, the Israeli winger, met with disappointment as Tottenham swooped him up instead.

Their Brazilian veteran, Willian, also appears unsettled. He's considering his future elsewhere, refusing the opening offer for a new contract, although an improved proposal lies on the table.

Defending the Home Front
Apart from the active pursuit of fresh talent, Fulham find themselves having to guard their own territory. The club is bracing against Saudi Arabian interest in their key figures, manager Marco Silva and leading striker Aleksandar Mitrovic.

Despite the transfer market tensions, Fulham fans can rest assured that their team's ambition to attract and retain top-tier talent is unwavering.



https://eplindex.com/92114/brazilian-prodigy-on-verge-of-shock-move-to-fulham.html

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Fulham boss Marco Silva eyes reunion with £24m Everton man in the last year of his contract
Last season, Everton were often clueless in attack and without a reliable forward, the goal efficiency came down. Often, the Toffees were also toothless as they couldn't create as many chances in games. Alex Iwobi is the sole creator in the current Everton side but his future remains up in the air.

There was a time when Everton had two excellent suppliers and creators in the midfield in James Rodriguez and Gylfi Sigurdsson. When the duo was present, EFC were able to create chances from nothing and provide plenty of service to the strikers. The presence of Lucas Digne at left back also helped as the Frenchman swung crosses from the left side for Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Richarlison.

In the 2022-23 season, Iwobi has been the main creator in the side. He created 64 chances in the Premier League, highest by any Everton player and was also the top assist getter from the Toffees with seven assists. However, the Merseysiders do not have any other reliable creator in the side.

Fulham interested in Everton attacker Alex Iwobi
The Nigerian has entered the final 12 months of his deal at Goodison Park and has managed to turn the slander into applause. There was a time when the former Arsenal man was ridiculed and subjected to abject criticism but his stupendous performances last season have won the support of the Everton faithful, so much so, that he is now considered an indispensable part of the team.

With his contract expiring in 12 months and his recent rejuvenation in form, there are several clubs keeping an eye on the Nigerian. According to Football Transfers, the 27 year old is being tracked by Fulham and Inter Milan. Fulham manager Marco Silva signed Iwobi in 2019 when he was the EFC boss. Now, the Portuguese manager is eyeing a reunion with the Nigerian, who is valued at £24 million by Transfermarkt.

Everton should do everything in their power to retain the services of Iwobi and tie him down to a long term deal. He is an integral part of Sean Dyche's team as the work rate he offers cannot be matched. Iwobi would prefer to play down the middle as opposed to currently playing on the right wing. If EFC manages to sign a right winger this summer, Iwobi could get his chance in the middle, behind the striker, where he excels.




https://princerupertstower.com/2023/07/14/fulham-everton-alex-iwobi/

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Nottingham Forest rivalling Burnley, Fulham and Leeds for Coventry City player
Gustavo Hamer is a man in-demand this summer and now Forest have joined the race for his services

Now that Coventry City have managed to secure a bumper, club record deal for talisman Viktor Gyokeres, attentions will now turn to star midfielder Gustavo Hamer, who has no shortage of interest in his services.

The Sky Blues now have a new influx of cash thanks to Gyokeres departing for Sporting CP of Portugal, with the clubs agreeing a £20 million deal plus add-ons for his services.

But they are still vulnerable to losing their other top talent in the form of Hamer, who like his former team-mate now has less than 12 months remaining on his contract at the CBS Arena.

The Dutchman penned an extra years extension to 2024 back in March 2022, but the 26-year-old could now potentially see the bright lights of the Premier League before his very eyes.

In the last week, Fulham have showed their interest as they look to add more bodies in their engine room to the likes of Joao Palhinha, whilst last season's Championship title winners Burnley are also interested in doing a deal for the former Feyenoord academy graduate.

There is also a keenness from Coventry's Championship rivals Leeds United, as Football League World exclusively revealed back in June, who wanted to make Hamer their marquee signing for this summer following his 11-goal, 10-assist campaign.

However, it is now Nottingham Forest who have joined the chasing pack for Hamer's services, according to TEAMtalk.

Forest look committed to spending again this summer and have been linked with the likes of Anthony Elanga, Willian and Dean Henderson this week, and now they have got Hamer well and truly in their sights.

TEAMtalk claim that Forest have 'held talks' into the possibility of signing Hamer, but they face a battle with other top flight clubs - and potentially Championship ones - for his services.

What is Gustavo Hamer's current situation at Coventry?
As mentioned, Hamer has come into the final year of his deal at the Coventry Building Society Arena, and despite the fact he is much-loved at the club the Premier League can always be extremely tempting.

However, according to CoventryLive's Andy Turner, Hamer asked for the Sky Blues hierarchy to put a new, extended contract offer for him on the table so that he can weigh up his options if bids do end up coming in for his services.

That does not mean that the Brazil-born maestro will put pen-to-paper on it of course, but it is a big sign that he is considering potentially extending his time in the West Midlands.

How much should Coventry hold out for in a transfer deal for Gustavo Hamer?
Some Coventry fans would argue that Hamer is more valuable than Gyokeres despite the fact the Swede contributed to 34 goals last season.

Hamer is an all-action midfielder who has finally added a consistent amount of goals and assists to his game and toned down the disciplinary issues, and even with one year left on his contract there's no reason as to why the Sky Blues cannot get eight figures for his services.

The £20 million they got for Gyokeres may be a stretch, but there is every reason to believe that a figure of around £15 million could be reasonable enough to tempt Cov and Doug King to cash in and re-invest to further bolster their squad.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/nottingham-forest-rivalling-burnley-fulham-and-leeds-for-coventry-city-player/

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Premier League club now can't afford to sign £27m player Everton let go
Fulham won't be signing Yerry Mina this summer.

That's according to The Athletic, who have reported that the Cottagers have pulled out of their pursuit of the former Everton defender due to his 'prohibitive' wage demands.

Mina joined Everton for £27 million five years ago and the centre-back went onto make over 80 appearances in the Premier League, though he never quite met the expectations following his arrival.

Following years of injuries, Mina was released by the Toffees at the end of last season and had been linked with a swift return to England with Fulham.

The Daily Mail had claimed that Marco Silva's side were eager to sign Mina if one of their own defenders leave, however they are no longer interested due to his salary.

Mina was said to have raked in around £120,000-a-week during his time at Goodison Park, making him one of the highest earners at the club.

If the 28-year-old was looking to avoid a pay cut if he had moved to London then he would have been making around £20,000-a-week more than their current best-paid player (Bernd Leno).

Fulham have made the right decision in avoiding Yerry Mina
Everton fans will want to see Yerry Mina do as well as possible after leaving Merseyside, however it is clear that Fulham would have been making a mistake in bringing him back to England.

The South American struggled with injuries throughout his career in the Premier League and his hefty wages are likely to prove even more of an issue if he spends most of his time on the treatment table.



https://www.everton.news/report-premier-league-club-now-cant-afford-to-sign-27m-player-everton-let-go/

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Fulham Getting Confident About Beating Nottingham Forest To Willian

Fulham are growing increasingly confident of working out a new contract with Willian, who also has an offer from Nottingham Forest.

Willian signed for the Cottagers last summer on a one-year deal and made a considerable impact on Marco Silva's side finishing in the top half of the Premier League table.

It seemed towards the end of last month that Willian's time at Fulham could be over as there were disagreements over a new deal.

Fulham have offered him an improved deal but Nottingham Forest are also interested in signing him on a free transfer and it had been claimed he was undergoing a Tricky Trees medical.

That talk seems wide of the mark and, according to Brazilian outlet UOL, Fulham are confident of signing up the winger on a new deal.

Talks have been ongoing between the two clubs and Fulham are rapidly making progress in negotiations.

Fulham are now confident that Willian will sign a new one-year contract and stay on at Craven Cottage.

The Brazilian is happy in London and that has played a part in helping Fulham to give them the edge in the race to re-sign him.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/07/14/fulham-getting-confident-about-beating-nottingham-forest-to-willian/610820/

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Defender not forcing move to Fulham – Waiting for Whites to make another offer
On Thursday, both the English and the Portuguese media reported that Fulham had a bid for Morato turned down by Benfica.

Stories from the London media even claimed that with the offer turned down, the defender would now go to the Eagles' management and say he'd like to leave and join the Whites.

It turns out that as Portuguese newspapers such as Correio da Manhã and O Jogo today cover this chase, they actually make it clear that the 22-year-old won't do that.

Correio da Manhã writes that despite claims of Morato forcing his way out, that's not true and the player won't put any pressure on Benfica, as he'd rather leave on good terms.

Meanwhile, O Jogo comes up to admit that going to the Premier League does 'seduce' Morato, but guarantees that the player isn't telling Benfica he wants to join Marco Silva's side.

The word in Portugal is that Fulham offered €17m plus bonuses, and even with Benfica's denial, the Whites are set to return with a new attempt. The player is protected by a €100m relesae clause.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/defender-not-forcing-move-fulham-waiting-whites-make-another-offer/

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EFL Trophy Fixture Dates Confirmed!

The Club is now able to confirm the dates and times for our three EFL Trophy group games.

Our cup journey will begin at Fratton Park, with our Under-21s taking on Portsmouth on Tuesday 22nd August (7:45pm).

Then, we will head to last season's League Two champions Leyton Orient on Tuesday 19th September, with kick-off at 7pm.

On Tuesday 7th November, the young Whites will take on Gillingham at Priestfield Stadium (7pm) in their third and final group game.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/14/EFL-Trophy-Fixture-Dates/

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Sources: Fulham ready move to beat West Ham to Ward-Prowse deal
Fulham have entered the race with West Ham to sign James Ward-Prowse this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

Southampton are yet to receive an official offer for the midfielder, but there has been enquiries made about a potential deal.

West Ham are waiting on Declan Rice's move to Arsenal to be confirmed, before they submit an offer for the England international.

Fulham are also looking to explore a deal for the midfielder, as the Saint's captain is expected to be sold.

Football Insider revealed on Friday (7 July) that Southampton midfield duo Ward-Prowse and Liverpool target Romeo Lavia are "fully expected" to depart the club this summer.

The south coast club are holding out for top money for their best assets and are willing to wait for a suitable offer to arrive.

According to Sky Sports (7 July), Rice has undergone a Gunners medical as he puts the finishing touches on a £105million move to the Premier League runners-up, and this deal will then allow West Ham to focus on Ward-Prowse.

Ward-Prowse played every Premier League game in the 2022-23 campaign and has racked up 343 total top-flight appearances since making his debut in 2012.

The 11-cap England star has scored 17 career Premier League free-kicks and now trails David Beckham's all-time record by just one goal.

He notched 11 goals and five assists across 45 appearances in all competitions last term.

Football Insider revealed last week (2 July) that West Ham are keen to add two central midfielders in the wake of Rice's imminent departure.

After securing a new five-year deal for Antonee Robinson, Fulham are also looking to bolster their squad ahead of the new season.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-ready-move-to-beat-west-ham-to-ward-prowse-deal/

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Nottingham Forest could now miss out on 'world-class' star – Journalist

Nottingham Forest could now miss out on the signing of Brazilian winger Willian. Plenty of reports emerged yesterday linking the Reds with a move to sign the player who left Fulham last month.

Now, according to journalist Bruno Andrade, the Cottagers might have come back to the table. Willian had already rejected one deal with the West Londoners but now things are progressing again.

The winger was at Fulham last season and he performed tremendously well. He scored five goals and registered six assists from 30 appearances, including a wonderful goal against Forest.

Now, he's a free agent and he can transfer to a new club without a fee. Fulham had seen a contract offer to Willian rejected but now, they might be back in business with the player keen to stay in London.

There were plenty of contrasting reports yesterday. In the evening, it was claimed that Willian was at Forest for a medical; although those notions were quickly dismissed.

The 34-year-old has bags of experience in the Premier League. He's won two Premier League titles and the Europa League with the Blues and he's definitely a natural-born winner.

His time with Arsenal saw him play 37 games and claim seven assists. Still, his time at the Emirates Stadium certainly wasn't quite as successful as it was when he was a Stamford Bridge star.

Fulham boss Marco Silva is a huge fan of the forward. Last season, he called him 'world-class' following one of his typically energetic and lively performances for the Cottagers.

Forest could miss out on Willian
Plenty of supporters remain on the fence with this one. As a result, it perhaps wouldn't be the end of the world if Fulham won the race to re-sign the player who walked away from them last month.

Willian would do a job in the Forest team. It's talked that he might get a two-year contract, with other reports claiming that he may do a year at Forest and then finish his career with Olympiacos.

The player can operate in a number of positions. At Fulham, he largely played on the left but ultimately he did play on the right on some occasions; whilst he's played through the middle during his career too.

If Steve Cooper wants Willian then so be it. However, this would be a short-term fix and it would hardly be deemed catastrophic if the player did return to Fulham.



https://www.nottinghamforest.news/2023/07/14/nottingham-forest-could-now-miss-out-on-world-class-star-journalist/

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Fulham in the Fray for James Ward-Prowse Amid West Ham's Interest
As the heart of the transfer season pounds, a new competitor has entered the arena for the coveted signature of James Ward-Prowse. Football Insider report that Fulham are keen on the Southampton midfielder, now in the crosshairs of West Ham United.

No Official Bids Yet for Southampton's Skipper
Although the rumblings of a potential transfer have grown louder, no official proposal has landed on the Southampton table for Ward-Prowse. Nevertheless, whispers around potential deals refuse to quell, hinting at an impending move for the midfielder.

Arsenal's Rice Acquisition Stalls West Ham's Bid
The Hammers, seemingly still processing Declan Rice's likely shift to Arsenal, haven't yet pulled the trigger on an offer for the England international. They seem to be patiently awaiting the official announcement of Rice's £105 million move to last season's Premier League runners-up.

Fulham Scouts Eying the Southampton Captain
The Craven Cottage side are also intrigued by the opportunity to land Ward-Prowse, underlining their intent to fortify their squad ahead of the new season. With the Southampton captain's potential exit on the cards, it's clear Fulham are ready to seize the opportunity, mirroring their recent move to lock down Antonee Robinson on a five-year deal.

Saints Duo Likely to Depart
Football Insider previously reported that both Ward-Prowse and Romeo Lavia, the latter being eyed by Liverpool, are seemingly on their way out of the south coast club this summer. Southampton, however, remain steadfast in their stance to hold out for a fitting offer that does justice to their prime assets.

Ward-Prowse: A Valuable Premier League Asset
Ward-Prowse's Premier League record is an emblem of consistency and skill, underpinning his considerable appeal. He's graced the pitch in every Premier League game during the 2022-23 campaign, with a career total of 343 top-flight appearances since his debut in 2012. His portfolio includes an impressive tally of 17 career Premier League free-kicks, a mere goal shy of equalling David Beckham's record. Last season, his 11 goals and five assists across all competitions further amplified his reputation.

West Ham's Squad Reinforcement Plan
In light of the expected void left by Rice's departure, West Ham reportedly plans to bring two central midfielders on board. Fulham, on the other hand, have been buoyed by their securing of Robinson's services and are eager to keep the momentum going by possibly adding Ward-Prowse to their ranks.

Will this summer see the gifted midfielder trade his Saints kit for either Fulham's or West Ham's colours? Only time will tell.



https://eplindex.com/92142/fulham-in-the-fray-for-james-ward-prowse-amid-west-hams-interest.html