Wednesday Fulham Stuff - 26/07/23...

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Report: Liverpool now really concerned they can't sign £60m Premier League player this summer
Liverpool are now reportedly concerned they can't sign Joao Palhinha this summer, with the Fulham midfielder sustaining an injury this week in pre-season.

According to the Daily Mail, the Reds are holding their breath on if they can move for the Portuguese international after Palhinha went off injured against Brentford in Philadelphia with a dislocated shoulder.

Valued by the Cottagers at £60m, Palhinha is a target for Liverpool to replace the Saudi Arabia-bound Fabinho, yet this injury could prevent the Anfield side from signing the Fulham star.

With West Ham also interested in signing Palhinha, Liverpool already face one roadblock in their bid to bring the 28-year-old dynamo to Anfield this summer.

And this latest injury update will do favours for Liverpool, with time slowly running out for Jurgen Klopp to sign a midfielder to replace Fabinho as well as Jordan Henderson.

Indeed, the severity of Palhinha's injury is yet to be determined. But with Liverpool now sweating over the midfielder, it's likely to assume that a deal could now be off for this summer.

Palhinha to Liverpool could now be put on ice until January
Palhinha being out for the next few weeks could all but ruin Liverpool's chances of signing the midfielder this summer. And as a result, a deal might now have to be put on hold until the January window.

A dislocated shoulder could realistically keep Palhinha out until September, just after the closure of the summer market, meaning Liverpool should now be looking at new targets for the midfield position.

Whilst other options are likely already on Liverpool's mind, Palhinha could have been a dream signing for the Reds, and this injury has come at the worst possible time for Klopp and his team.



https://www.rousingthekop.com/2023/07/25/liverpool-now-concerned-they-cant-sign-60m-premier-league-player/

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Fulham: Cottagers agree personal terms with Hudson-Odoi
The Chelsea winger could be on his way to Craven Cottage this summer.

Fulham have now agreed personal terms with Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has given them the green light to complete a move this summer, according to a report from The Evening Standard.

Is Callum Hudson-Odoi leaving Chelsea?
There are a number of clubs vying for Hudson-Odoi's signature this summer, with the winger deemed likely to leave the Blues, including AC Milan and Nottingham Forest, who have both registered their interest.

Forest were initially confident about being able to complete a deal for the Chelsea ace, but they have now dropped out of the race for his signature, due to concerns over the asking price.

That is according to a report from The Evening Standard, which also credits Crystal Palace with an interest in the 22-year-old, however the Eagles have also been priced out of the race.

The three-time England international's huge wages have been causing complications in talks with several of the interested parties.

Chelsea have also been trying to drive up the price for the £120k-per-week earner, having invited Lazio into the race to provide competition, and the Italian side are currently weighing up a loan deal, which would include an obligation to buy.

Despite having their opening bid for the Cobham academy graduate rejected last week, Fulham still retain an interest, and they have now made some progress on the player's side of things, having reached an agreement on personal terms.

The Englishman has given the green light for the Cottagers to complete a move this summer, as he is keen to leave Chelsea as soon as possible, having been stuck training with the Under-21s for the past three weeks.

The last barrier for Marco Silva's side to overcome is the transfer fee, and they appear to be at the most advanced stage of the interested parties.

How good is Callum Hudson-Odoi?
Despite being lauded as "amazingly talented" by football scout Jacek Kulig, the starlet has never been able to establish himself as a key player for Chelsea, being sent out on loan to Bayer Leverkusen during the 2022-23 campaign.

In truth, the London-born forward also struggled in the Bundesliga, recording just one goal in 21 appearances in all competitions, however he still has time on his side, and he could be able to fulfill his lofty potential if he picks his next move wisely.

A switch to Fulham, where he would be likely to receive more game time, could be ideal for the want-away Chelsea winger, who former teammate Olivier Giroud believes can go on to become a "top player".

Cesc Fabregas has also been full of praise for the youngster in the past, saying: "He is a boy who is full of confidence. I remember his first training session and his finishing was superb. I thought "I have never seen this kid before but actually he has something about him." It was very early but you could see that he had a lot of potential."

Fulham should not be held to ransom by Chelsea, as his performances over the past couple of seasons do not justify a huge outlay, but Hudson-Odoi could be a quality addition to Silva's squad.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-callum-hudson-odoi-transfer-updates-latest-news-rumours/

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Chelsea now set sights on 'fast' 25-year-old defender who impressed Pep Guardiola in training – journalist
Chelsea have set their sights on a possible move for Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo.

That is according to well-respected journalist Simon Phillips.

Phillips has claimed on his Substack that the Blues have been internally discussing for weeks the idea of signing a new centre-back in this summer transfer window.

He claims that Chelsea are now considering a move for Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo.

Adarabioyo, who's now 25, is a very highly-rated centre-half.

The Englishman has been a key Fulham player since he moved to Craven Cottage back in 2020, but he's a product of the Manchester City academy with a great schooling at the Etihad Stadium.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/transfer-news/chelsea-now-set-sights-on-fast-25-year-old-defender-who-impressed-pep-guardiola-in-training-journalist/

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Raul Jimenez: Fulham finalise one deal and ready to sign second forward
Fulham are planning for life without Aleksandar Mitrovic with the signing of Wolves star Raul Jimenez set to be finalised, sources have told Football Insider.

However, the 32-year-old is not believed to be a direct replacement for Mitrovic – who is training alone as he attempts to force through a Saudi Pro League move.

Football Insider revealed on Monday (24 July) that Fulham are becoming increasingly resigned to losing their star man to Al-Hilal this summer.

They have seen their first two offers for Mitrovic, 28, rejected, but are set to return with an offer worth around £50million.

Jimenez is set to come into the Fulham attack – with Marco Silva keen to add striking reinforcements even before the start of the Mitrovic saga.

A medical is already underway after a £5.5million fee was agreed with Wolves.

And a well-placed source has revealed that the Cottagers would sign a further big-money forward should the Serbian be granted his money-spinning move.

Mitrovic netted 15 strikes last season as Marco Silva's side consolidated their Premier League status with a 10th-place finish.

Meanwhile, Jimenez managed just three goals in 20 outings last season and has scored only 10 Premier League goals in the last three campaigns.

Manager Marco Silva has also been the subject of interest from the ambitious Saudi Pro League project this summer.

As per Sky Sports (24 July), Silva has confirmed he has rejected a £40million two-year deal from Al-Hilal – who are also chasing Mitrovic.

Fulham start their Premier League campaign against Man United on 12 August.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/raul-jimenez-fulham-finalise-one-deal-and-ready-to-sign-second-forward/

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Tottenham expected to submit official bid for 25-year-old PL ace
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for the Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo.

According to a report from Football London, Tottenham could look to submit an official bid for the 25-year-old Fulham defender in the coming weeks.

Spurs have been linked with players like Edmond Tapsoba and Micky van de Ven as well.

Adarabioyo has already proven his quality in the Premier League and he could prove to be a quality addition. He is in the final year of his contract with Fulham and the Londoners could look to sell him for a reasonable price in order to avoid losing him on a free transfer.

Tottenham need to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer after conceding 63 goals in the Premier League.

Signing a quality partner for Cristian Romero should be their top priority before the transfer window closes. They looked quite vulnerable at the back last season and they need to tighten up defensively if they want to get back into the top four and qualify for the Champions League once again.

The opportunity to play for Spurs will be an attractive option for the Fulham defender as well. It would be a step up in his career. The report from Football London claims that Adarabioyo is open to the move and he is an attractive option for Spurs as well because he is a homegrown player.

The Londoners are keeping tabs on other Premier League defenders like Marc Guehi and Joachim Andersen as well.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2023/07/25/tottenham-expected-to-submit-official-bid-for-25-year-old-pl-ace/

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Three wingers Fulham should sign

Macsen Morgan takes a look potential new options on the wings, following numerous summer departures.

With the recent exit of Neeskens Kebano and the departure of both Dan James and Manor Solomon after their loans expired, Fulham need some new players to strengthen the wing positions. So here are three players that I think would help us avoid second-season syndrome.

1. Jesper Karlsson
24-year-old Swedish international Jesper Karlsson is the first player I think would fit the Marco Silva system. He is an incredibly talented player, racking up 21 goal contributions in just 33 appearances last season, and at only 24 he has a lot of time to develop. The first comparison I can think of is to Manor Solomon as they are both right-footed left wingers. Another similarity to many of Fulham's wingers is that they play as wingers who can invert into a wide 10 player.

Karlsson ranks very highly in the Eredivisie for his playmaking stats. He also provides a great goal-scoring threat from both inside and outside the box. He wouldn't break the bank at about £15m and would be a great development option while also being starting quality.

2. Pedro Neto
The next winger on my list is Wolves winger, Pedro Neto. The 23-year-old Portuguese winger is one of the most exciting young prospects in the Premier League even after his sub-par season, which was cut short by an ankle injury meaning he only played 18 games. Injury seems to be a common problem in his game, curtailing both his 2021/22 season and 2022/23 seasons. However, he has still retained his explosivity and his incredible dribbling skill.

Neto is a very versatile player, showcasing his ability to play across the front three as well as being very confident with both feet. This means that he will be an option on both wings in case of injury or suspension. In the past, he has been held back by the tactical decisions and the personnel at Wolves but has shown moments of excellence throughout his career and in his first season in the top flight. He's a player with some serious potential but there might be better choices out there for less money as he would probably cost upwards of £20m.

3. Samuel Iling-Junior
The final winger on my list is Samuel Iling-Junior, the 23-year-old who currently plays for Juventus. An out-and-out winger, Iling-Junior is an interesting player, in a world where the majority of successful wingers cut inside and try to take shots on goal, he prefers to hug the touchline and attempt to get crosses into the box. This provides some contrast to the majority of Fulham's wingers such as Wilson and Willian. He also has experience playing as a left-back which means that his pressing and tackling are top notch and his recovery speed is great as well.

However, his ball progression is one of his best assets as he is great as breaking through the defensive line. His crossing is great as well as he had and accuracy of 66.7%, which is incredibly high and would help the Fulham team that whips in 40+ crosses and none of them connect. He is also quite cheap with a market value of just £8m. In my opinion, he would be a good buy but he lacks that first-team experience that Fulham need.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-07-25-three-wingers-fulham-should-sign/

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Fulham FC Women 2023/24 Season Tickets

Fulham FC Women Season Tickets are back!
The Club are delighted to announce Season Tickets for Fulham FC Women's 2023/24 London & South-East Regional League campaign are now on sale.

Whether you've been waving the flag for Fulham Women since the start or are looking forward to attending your first game at Motspur Park, the journey is just getting started and there has never been a better time to show your support.

We want to see and hear as many of you as possible throughout the 2023/24 campaign, and with Season Tickets priced at just £40 for adults and £5 for juniors it has never been easier for the whole family to cheer on the whites!

Your Season Ticket will provide entry to all of Fulham FC Women's 2023/24 Home League fixtures. This includes FFCW's return to Motspur Park on Sunday 20th August as they kick-off their upcoming campaign against Ashford United.

Fans can secure their seats now online, by phone on 0203 871 0810 (opt. 1) or in person from the Fulham FC Ticket Office.

Be part of the journey and show your support for Fulham FC Women at Motspur Park all season!

USEFUL INFORMATION

WHERE DO FULHAM FC WOMEN PLAY?

Fulham FC Women are currently scheduled to play all home league matches at Motspur Park Training Ground, New Malden, KT3 6PT

HOW MUCH ARE TICKETS?

2023/24 Season Tickets are priced at just £40 for Adults and £5 for Juniors.

Individual match tickets are priced at £5 for Adults and £1 for Juniors.

We encourage fans to purchase their digital tickets in advance of matchday which must then be either downloaded to a smart phone or printed before arriving at the Training Ground.

Tickets can be purchased online at tickets.fulhamfc.com or over the phone on 0203 871 0810.

WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FULHAM FC WOMEN?

You can keep up to date with all things Fulham FC Women on Twitter and Instagram: @FULHAMFCWOMEN

WHERE DID FULHAM FC WOMEN FINISH LAST SEASON?

The side finished 3rd in the London and South East Regional Division in 2022/23



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/25/fulham-fc-women-23-24-season-tickets/

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Fulham and Liverpool Set Sights on Fluminense's Star
The Battle for Brazilian Sensation: Andre
Football Transfers reports a fierce bidding war in the making, a tug-of-war for the services of Brazilian wonderkid, Andre. English clubs are already circling, ready to swoop in, but their ambition faces a challenge from the youngster's current club, Fluminense.

Fluminense's Stand
Fluminense, though receptive to bids for the coveted 22-year-old, insist that Andre will not be leaving their ranks until the conclusion of the Brazilian Serie A season in December. The asking price? A cool €25m for a significant 80% of Andre's economic rights, with future add-ons expected.

A flurry of initial approaches from the Premier League has already been made, with one particular red-clad Merseyside club among the interested parties. Yet, potential buyers must be prepared to bide their time, awaiting the winter transfer window for Andre's services.

Fulham's Brazilian Gamble
Marco Silva, Fulham's dynamic tactician, eyes Andre as the perfect midfield complement to Joao Palinha and Harrison Reed. But this desired formation largely hinges on the severity of Palinha's recently dislocated shoulder, an injury incurred during Fulham's thrilling 3-2 victory over Brentford in the Premier League Summer Series held in Philadelphia.

In the pursuit of realising this dream setup, Fulham could be poised to table an offer that surpasses Fluminense's quoted asking price.

Liverpool's Midfield Void
Liverpool, simultaneously, face their own issues in midfield. Jordan Henderson and Fabinho are seemingly destined for greener pastures in Saudi Arabia, leaving a void that Andre could potentially fill.

Despite his lack of Premier League experience, Andre's price tag is a fraction of Southampton's Romeo Lavia's asking price. Having made his mark in the Brazilian league's team of the year for 2022, Andre is no stranger to accolades and is revered as a colossal talent in Brazil.

Silva's Commitment to Fulham
After Silva rebuffed an enticing proposal from Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, the manager's commitment to Fulham remains unwavering. "I answered for my club and I will not talk about this situation," Silva remarked at a recent press conference, firmly establishing his loyalty. "My commitment to the football club is total."

With Silva's resolve clear and Premier League clubs circling for Andre, a riveting transfer saga is on the cards.



https://eplindex.com/92959/fulham-and-liverpool-set-sights-on-fluminenses-star.html

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Buy your Fulham FC Women's season ticket
For the first time ever last year, Fulham offered a season ticket to watch their women's side. Not even in the glorious years following Mohamed Al-Fayed's decision to make the Whites a fully professional outfit when Rachel Yankey and company conquered the domestic game did Fulham fans have the ability to follow their side in this fashion. The women's team, now firmly established as part of the club's academy and development structure, are going from strength to strength and the season ticket offer was popular last season at £40 for adults – and £15 for concessions – to follow Steve Jaye's side in all their league matches.

The price point remains the same this term – in stark contrast to the 18.5% average increase in men's pricing after Marco Silva's side stayed in the top flight for the first time in a decade under the Khan family's ownership – and you will get to watch a talented team push for promotion from the London and South East Regional Premier Division. Skippered by lifelong Fulham fanatic Mary Southgate, the part-time squad have already made history by returning to Craven Cottage for a female fixture for the first time in twenty years last season.

Georgia Heasman memorably scored in front of more than 3,000 fans as the Whites pushed AFC Wimbledon all the way in a pulsating Cup tie – and there will be plenty more magic served up at Motspur Park and the Cottage this season. You might have never watched the Fulham women's side before, but if you haven't seen Tia Foreman hit a free kick or Ede Buchele finish then you are definitely missing out.

Season tickets are available online or from the Stevenage Road ticket office in person or by calling 0203 871 0810 and selecting option one. The money from the sales goes directly back into supporting both the women's first team and the under-18 side, who Jodie Williams guided to cup success in their first season last year.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/buy-your-fulham-fc-womens-season-ticket/

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ExWHUemployee shares update on West Ham United links to Everton ace Demarai Gray amid Fulham interest
West Ham are keen on signing Everton attacker Demarai Gray if a move does not pan out for Manchester City youngster Carlos Borges, claims ExWHUemployee.

The reliable Hammers insider claimed on his Patreon podcast [24 July] that even Fulham are keen on signing the Jamaica international, 27.

It's understood that he will be available for a decent transfer fee and could be an option if Borges, 19, is not signed by the club.

Ex said at 5:57, "We have had a look at Demarai Gray of Everton as a potential option on that wing. He's apparently available for a decent price. Fulham are in for him but he could be an alternative option if Borges doesn't go through, but as I say, I think it will."

Not needed
Gray, after the signing of Arnaut Danjuma, is unlikely to be the first choice even at Everton.

For West Ham to sign a bench player at Everton does not really indicate ambition and a plan to go to the next level.

The Hammers should not be targeting players that are at relegation threatened clubs and are struggling to get game time there.

Gray's goal-scoring and assist numbers are unimpressive, to say the least, and there are plenty of better options out there.

Hopefully, there are no more issues with signing Borges and that deal gets completed sooner rather than later.

Given the club's recruitment team, they do not seem to have any good backup options in mind for him and that's a worry because they had months to plan for it.



https://www.westhamzone.com/news/exwhuemployee-shares-update-on-west-ham-united-links-to-everton-ace-demarai-gray-amid-fulham-interest/

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'It's sad': Pundit says £100,000-a-week player took Wolves to 'a new level completely'
Dave Edwards has expressed his sadness about Raul Jimenez making a move to Fulham from Wolves.

The Mexico international is expected to officially complete his move to the Craven Cottage outfit, after doing his medical yesterday.

Jimenez had been with the squad for pre-season, leading to a bit of talk about him potentially staying.

But it is now only a question of when Jimenez leaves, not if.

He's no longer with the Wolves squad in Portugal, and will join the Cottagers.

Edwards has given his reaction to the news, and it's one many fans will no doubt share.

Dave Edwards sad as Raul Jimenez prepares to leave Wolves
Edwards has penned a new column in the Express & Star, and Jimenez leaving is the first topic he discusses.

The former Molineux midfielder is gutted to see him go, feeling it is the end of an era at Molineux.

He said: "It's sad in many ways because we all remember how good he was during his first two seasons at the club.

"He helped take the team to a new level completely. Wolves had not had a striker like him probably since Steve Bull. The kind of player who could really run the frontline. The goals and assists he got in that first season were excellent."

Jimenez has made 166 appearances for Wolves, and scored 57 goals and made 24 assists.

He only managed three last season, with all of those coming in the EFL Cup, as he battled some fitness problems.

Raul Jimenez took Wolves to new heights
So it looks as though Jimenez will soon no longer be a Wolves player.

Although it has kind of been on the cards, it is still very sad to see him go.

Jimenez was an absolutely inspired signing for Wolves. He joined the club on loan initially from Benfica, and was an instant hit.

After Wolves then bought him for £30 million, he established himself as one of the best all-round centre-forwards in the Premier League.

His first two seasons at Molineux were truly special, and Edwards is right to say that the club haven't really had someone like him since Steve Bull.

Sadly things were not quite the same for Jimenez after he suffered his skull fracture. And last season was a real struggle for the £100,000-a-week star, and he did take a bit of stick at times.

But hopefully it will be nothing but love and adulation from fans, when this exit is confirmed.



https://www.molineux.news/transfer-news/its-sad-pundit-says-100000-a-week-player-took-wolves-to-a-new-level-completely/

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Permission granted: Fulham agree deal to sign Ballo-Toure - sources
Fulham have agreed a deal to sign AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure, sources have told Football Insider.

Ballo-Toure, 26, has been given permission to hold talks with the west London club over a move to Craven Cottage.

The left-back has two years left on his contract in Milan after joining from AS Monaco in 2021 for around £4.7million and has made a total of 26 appearances for the club.

Ballo-Toure was not called up by head Stefano Pioli for the Serie A club's pre-season tour of the US and is no longer considered as part of the club's project.

The defender was brought in as a back up for first choice Theo Hernandez but hardly featured for Milan last season, playing just 650 minutes across 14 appearances.

Ballo-Toure failed to impress when he did feature for Piolo's side but has been unable to impress the coaching staff enough to cement a place in the team as they look to move him on this summer.

Now the Italian side are eyeing up potential replacements for the left-back, with Basel youngster Riccardo Calafiori reportedly a top target.

It is believed AC Milan are waiting to get the Senegal international off the books before commencing talks for Calafiori.

Fulham are in the market for a new left-back to provide back up and competition for first choice Antonee Robinson.

Following last season's tenth place finish, the Cottagers are looking for reinforcements in an effort to push further up the table next term.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/permission-granted-fulham-agree-deal-to-sign-ballo-toure-sources/

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Five Aleksandar Mitrovic alternatives Fulham must consider amid Raul Jimenez speculation
Where could Fulham look if they have to replace wantaway striker Aleksandar Mitrovic?

Aleksandar Mitrovic appears to be heading for a somewhat acrimonious exit from Fulham as Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli look to press home their interest in the Serbian frontman.

The move, it should be said, would surely come with a tinge of regret after both club and striker have enjoyed a fruitful relationship that has reinvigorated their fortunes. For Mitrovic, Craven Cottage provided him with a launchpad following an underwhelming spell at Newcastle United as he struggled to earn the trust of former Magpies manager Rafa Benitez.

For Fulham, they have benefited from the talents of a wholehearted and prolific centre-forward, reaping the rewards with 111 goals and 22 assists in 205 appearances as Mitrovic's form inspired them to promotion into the Premier League and a mid-table finish in their first season back in the top tier.

So, what next? A deal for Wolves striker Raul Jimenez is seemingly imminent, but there are reasons to believe that he may not be the only attacking acquisition that the Cottagers make this summer. For one thing, Marco Silva's side should have upwards of £40 million burning a hole in their pocket soon enough, and the Mexican star is only expected to cost around £5.5 million. For another, he has struggled to rekindle the form that made him such a hit at Wolves in recent times, and there is a feeling that were Fulham to sign him and him alone, it would be something of a downgrade.

But where could the Cottagers turn in their quest to replace Mitrovic? We've taken a look at a number of options below...

El Bilal Toure
The Mali international has proven his ability in a top league after joining La Liga club Almeria from French side Reims in September last year. The 21-year-old has scored seven goals and provided two assists in 22 appearances, and those stats would have been even more impressive had a muscle injury not limited his impact in the second half of the season. Despite that blow, Toure has still attracted interest from a number of clubs around Europe, and Atalanta and Everton are both said to be monitoring his progress, with the latter believed to be in advanced talks.

Folarin Balogun
This one would be ambitious but there is no doubt Balogun is ready to prove himself in the Premier League after he produced a stunning return during a season-long loan spell at Reims. After replacing the aforementioned Toure, the Arsenal striker scored 22 goals and provided three assists in just 39 appearances for the Ligue 1 club and has been linked with a permanent departure from the Emirates Stadium. It would be a costly move but it is one that could work for both parties.

Kevin Volland
A more experienced option and one that would perhaps provide Fulham with a more rounded striker, rather than the out-and-out goalscorer Mitrovic has been. The 30-year-old Germany international has 63 goal involvements in 115 appearances for Monaco since he joined the Ligue 1 club in a £9million move from Bayer Leverkusen just under three years ago. Now entering the final year of his current deal, Volland could prove a cost-effective option for Silva.

Luka Jovic
Could Fulham replace one Serbian international striker with another? It seems remarkable to think Jovic is still only 25-year-old given the hype that has surrounded him for a number of years. An underwhelming spell with Spanish giants Real Madrid may well have limited talk of Jovic's ability, but 13 goals and five assists showed some signs of the unquestionable talent he possesses.

Habib Diallo
Diallo has been linked with Sheffield United and Chelsea in recent years after impressing in the colours of French club Strasbourg. The Senegal international is rapidly approaching a half-century of goals for the French outfit and has captured the attention of a number of clubs around Europe. Premier League trio West Ham United, Nottingham Forest, and Brentford have also been touted as potential suitors, with the latter believed to have made a bid of around £13 million for the striker. Strasbourg are said to want a fee nearer the £20 million mark.



https://www.3addedminutes.com/sport/football/fulham/five-aleksandar-mitrovic-alternatives-fulham-must-consider-amid-raul-jimenez-speculation-4230556

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Fulham are in transfer limbo amid Saudi disruption, but losing Aleksandar Mitrovic is 'no disaster'
After finishing 10th in the Premier League, the club's pre-season preparations have been hit by Saudi interest in Mitrovic and Marco Silva

Just when you are looking to build on your first top-10 finish for 11 years, along comes the distraction of the Saudi Pro League clubs and their millions.

For Fulham, it has felt different. While other Premier League clubs are doing business with Saudi sides, these transactions have largely been suiting all parties, often featuring players surplus to requirement, nearing the twilight years of their careers. It has certainly helped Chelsea and could soon add further funds to Liverpool's midfield reshuffle as well.

But no other club has faced a disruption like Fulham, whose summer has been dominated by talk of their manager and star striker leaving for Saudi Arabia at a time when, so far, not a single signing has been made.

Already, then, it appears the decisions made by Marco Silva and Aleksandar Mitrovic are set to define a season that has not even begun.

In Silva's case, Fulham will hope this period of temptation is at an end. He had already turned down a two-year £34m offer from Al-Hilal, as reported by i earlier this month, before the former Everton boss rejected Al-Ahli's £40m advances over the weekend.

"My commitment for the club [Fulham] is clear and it will continue," he said on Saturday, although he refused to comment on whether he had turned the offer down. "I have shown my commitment to this club last season so many times. I will not talk about the situation. I don't come here to talk about offers and these situations."

Evidently coveted, Silva could yet be the subject of further offers, while Mitrovic does appear to be on his way out.

"It's not the ideal situation," Silva admitted, with Mitrovic reportedly angry with Fulham's £52m valuation and telling relatives he would never play for the club again. Al-Hilal have already had two bids rejected for the striker, who watched Sunday's pre-season friendly win over Brentford from the sidelines and was caught yawning when in-house replacement Carlos Vinicius scored.

"Losing Mitrovic is a blow, but not a disaster," Farrell Monk of the Fulhamish podcast tells i. "He was key to Fulham's success last season, no question, but after missing a third of our league games through a mix of suspensions and injuries, Silva and the squad had to adapt without him, picking up five wins and a draw in his absence.

"That famous eight-game punishment applied to the Serbian may well have been excellent practice for his eventual departure. Carlos Vinicius proved a more than able replacement and is now a popular figure following a memorable and rare winner against Chelsea."

On top of Vinicius, Fulham appear close to signing striker Raul Jimenez from Wolves, but Silva would not address any player in question, adding after their pre-season win over Brentford: "The market is open. It's no surprise that we are looking to sign players in different positions. I'm going to talk about players when they have our shirt."

But time is running out before the new season, and as it stands there have been zero incomings at Fulham, hardly ideal in a league where standing still can often mean going backwards.

Fulham's match with Brentford was the second of nine friendlies in the Premier League Summer Series, which are all being played on the USA's east coast and read like the equivalent of Formula One's midfield battle, with Aston Villa, Brighton, Chelsea and Newcastle also competing.

Of course, Newcastle now have higher aims as a Champions League outfit, with Chelsea out to right the wrongs of their calamitous 2022-23 campaign, and so arguably Fulham's nearest rivals are Brentford, Brighton and Villa – all of whom have been making moves in the transfer market.

Brentford finished ninth last season, seven points above Fulham, and have already spent a club-record £23m on centre-back Nathan Collins, surpassing the £20m spent on Kevin Schade, the forward whose move was made permanent this summer.

Down at Brighton, a first Europa League campaign awaits, with Bart Verbruggen, Mahmoud Dahoud, Joao Pedro and James Milner all arriving after the expected departure of Alexis Mac Allister. With Moises Caicedo set to follow him out the door, the Seagulls could yet have another £70-80m to spend.

And up at Villa, they are welcoming new names ahead of their bid to match West Ham's Europa Conference League-winning exploits. They may yet face a battle to keep hold of their player of the year Douglas Luiz, but have already signed Youri Tielemans on a free and defender Pau Torres for £33m, with Moussa Diaby joining from Bayer Leverkusen as well.

Transfers do not guarantee success (see: Chelsea) but a quiet window can prove detrimental, as Leicester proved when, on a tighter budget, they went from eighth to 18th in the space of 12 months after making just two summer signings in 2022.

And Fulham can ill-afford a similar scenario. Silva defied the odds with this side when finishing 10th last season, placing as high as sixth in February, but disruption can lead to distraction which can lead to talk of relegation – that last year they admirably managed to emphatically avoid.

"Make no mistake, despite Fulham's successes last season on the pitch, a lot of gaps have appeared," Monk adds. "On top of Mitrovic, the club are looking to cash in on Tosin Adarabioyo, and the coveted Palhinha may end up filling a Declan Rice-shaped hole in East London, although separating his shoulder against Brentford may have cooled that.

"Whether or not the Silva-Saudi situ was merely postulation to get Tony Khan's team to get a move on, it is nothing new to Fulham fans. It is a pattern of behaviour that crops up every transfer window with each of Silva's predecessors in the Khan era.

"I have no doubt that the manager committing his future will move things along a little and some will start to trickle through before the usual waterfall on the last day. It is no secret that Marco Silva is a bit of a tactical perfectionist so getting players in early and slowly integrating them into the system is important but hopefully it doesn't mean making rash choices just for the sake of it like years past."

So be it soon or on deadline day, it would appear Fulham will not end the window without a single incoming, but it has sure been slow-going so far.

However, as they proved against Brentford on Sunday, under Silva they can continue to compete. The Fulham boss' commitment is integral to the outcome of the season ahead, and they would do well to avoid another offer coming in for Portuguese.

Just ask Villa fans about Martin O'Neill leaving the club five days before the new campaign started in 2010. Fulham will hope to avoid a repeat scenario, and while they must also reach a swift resolution around Mitrovic, vice-chairman Tony Khan recently did the club few favours with his response about Saudi Arabia's spending.

"It's amazing," he told the Dan Le Batard Show last week. "I think if you have enough money you can get away with anything, including murder, and try to sign up all the top players in the world.

"Certainly they have approached a lot of great players and I'm very, very interested to see where this goes. But for us, we're definitely committed to keeping our top stars and doing what it will take."

Negotiations for Mitrovic could, therefore, prove tricky, especially if they hold out for £52m.



https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-transfer-limbo-saudi-disruption-aleksandar-mitrovic-2500673?ITO=newsnow

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Fulham: Willian delighted by Marco Silva decision as Callum Hudson-Odoi reunion nears

Willian is delighted "one of the best coaches in the Premier League" in Marco Silva will remain at Fulham this season.

Silva was offered a stunning £40million payday to manage Saudi Arabia side Al Ahli on a two-year deal, but rejected the move to stay in west London.

Willian, who excelled on his return to England under Silva last season, was happy his boss was staying put having himself rejected interest from elsewhere to remain with Fulham.

He said: "It is good that he can stay with us. He is a top coach. For me, he is one of the best coaches in the Premier League."

Silva's rejection capped a fine few days for Fulham, who are finalising a £5.5m deal for Wolves striker Raul Jimenez and are closing in on further additions having agreed fees for both Southampton's Mohammed Salisu and Ajax's Calvin Bassey.

Fulham have also agreed personal terms to sign Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Willian hopes his former Chelsea team-mate joins him down the road at Craven Cottage.

"If he comes here it would be good for us and I hope he can come," he said. "I don't know if he will join. I haven't spoken to him. I am waiting after seeing it in the newspapers and media! He is a very good player."

Willian considered leaving Fulham this summer, rejecting two contract offers and even undergoing a medical with Nottingham Forest before performing a U-turn to put pen to paper on a one-year extension.

The Brazilian insists he got his favoured outcome, but insisted he was "never close to joining Nottingham Forest". He addied: "Of course, they wanted me to go there but it was never close.

"It was a few weeks of having conversations with Fulham but they were always my first option. When we reached the agreement, it was easy to decide, to be here and play for this club. I enjoyed my last season and I hope to enjoy myself again this season."

Fulham's 3-2 win over Brentford was a positive start to the Premier League Summer Series, a new pre-season tournament, and they next face Aston Villa in Orlando tomorrow.

Unfortunately, Joao Palhinha painful-looking shoulder injury soured the result.

Willian concluded: "It is good to be here and to have this preparation here but it is hot! We played well but we are not too ready to start the season. We need more weeks to be ready, work hard and gain sharpness."



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-fc-willian-marco-silva-hudson-odoi-b1096633.html

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Fulham still in talks with player's agent despite agreement with club – 'Also has other offers'
A couple of sources in the Italian media today share some updates on Fulham's pursuit of AC Milan fullback Fodé Ballo-Touré.

A very optimistic one comes from Sky Sport, relayed by Napoli Magazine, claiming there's a deal for the move, but that's not all.

It's said that Fulham already have an agreement with Milan for the permanent transfer, and the negotiations continue with the player's agent.

It seems that convincing the player is indeed the hardest task the Whites currently have, and that's also said on Sport Italia.

The website today features some quotes from journalist Alfredo Pedulla. There, he explains that Touré is still to make up his mind regarding the move to Fulham.

"He hasn't yet dissolved the last reserves in the direction of Fulham. He also has other offers."

The word in the Italian media has been that Touré can choose between Fulham and Bologna, and the possibility of continuing to live in Italy is what attracts him to the latter option.

Milan had reportedly made a €4m request to sell the fullback, and the Craven Cottage side had no problem in matching that. Bologna shouldn't have that difficulty either, so it's all in the player's hands.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-still-talks-players-agent-despite-agreement-club-also-offers/

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Willian 'hopes' Fulham sign former Chelsea team-mate Callum Hudson-Odoi and reacts to Marco Silva staying
Willian 'hopes' Fulham sign his former Chelsea team-mate Callum Hudson-Odoi and says he is delighted Marco Silva has snubbed Saudi Arabia to remain at Craven Cottage.

Hudson-Odoi has agreed personal terms with Chelsea's west London rivals but the Blues are keen to drive up his price amid interest from European clubs.

The 22-year-old was viewed as one of the most highly-rated young players in the Premier League when he burst onto the scene, attracting substantial interest from German giants Bayern Munich.

Chelsea rejected a bid worth up to £70m for Hudson-Odoi in 2020 but they may live to regret that decision as the forward's career has stalled.

Having fallen out of favour at Stamford Bridge, Hudson-Odoi was sent on loan to Bayer Leverkusen last season but he was unable to revive his career in the Bundesliga, scoring just once in 21 appearances.

Despite his recent struggles, Fulham are keen to secure his signature this summer and Willian insists he 'hopes' the deal goes through.

'If he comes here it would be good for us and I hope he can come,' the former Chelsea winger said.

'I don't know if he will join. I haven't spoken to him. I am waiting after seeing it in the newspapers and media! He is a very good player.'

Willian impressed at Fulham last season after securing a shock return to the Premier League following a brief spell at his boyhood club Corinthians.

One of the favourites to go down following their promotion to the English top-flight, Fulham proved their doubters wrong by finishing 10th on 52 points.

Fulham have been sweating over the future of their manager Silva, who was offered a £40m payday to manage Saudi Arabia side Al Ahli on a two-year deal.

But the Portuguese manager has reportedly turned down the offer and Willian said: 'It is good that he can stay with us. He is a top coach. For me, he is one of the best coaches in the Premier League.'

Willian was also heavily linked with a move away from Craven Cottage earlier in the summer and was believed to have undergone a medical at fellow Premier League side Nottingham Forest.

Asked about the speculation he would leave Fulham, the Brazilian added: 'Of course, they wanted me to go there but it was never close.

'It was a few weeks of having conversations with Fulham but they were always my first option. When we reached the agreement, it was easy to decide, to be here and play for this club.

'I enjoyed my last season and I hope to enjoy myself again this season.'



https://metro.co.uk/2023/07/25/willian-urges-fulham-sign-chelsea-flop-reacts-marco-silva-staying-19188787/?ito=newsnow-feed

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Willian: 'I'm delighted Silva's staying at Fulham'
Fulham winger Willian feels Marco Silva is 'one of the best coaches in the Premier League' and has shared his delight at the news that the Portuguese boss will be staying in SW6.

Silva has rejected approaches from several Premier League clubs and two Saudi Pro League sides to remain at Craven Cottage after steering the Whites to tenth on their return to the flight. Willian, who reversed his decision to reject a new Fulham contract after Silva intervened, told the Evening Standard:

"It is good that he can stay with us. He is a top coach. For me, he is one of the best coaches in the Premier League."

The Brazilian veteran also revealed he was never close to signing for Nottingham Forest despite fevered press speculation suggesting otherwise.

""Of course, they wanted me to go there but it was never close. It was a few weeks of having conversations with Fulham but they were always my first option. When we reached the agreement, it was easy to decide, to be here and play for this club. I enjoyed my last season and I hope to enjoy myself again this season."

Willian is enjoying spending pre-season in the United States as the Whites warm up for the start of the domestic season in August.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/07/willian-im-delighted-silvas-staying-at-fulham/

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Brentford (H) Tickets

Tickets for Fulham's first home game of the 2023/24 season will go on sale to Members from 10am on Wednesday 26th July.
The Whites face Brentford at Craven Cottage on Saturday 19th August, kick-off 3pm.

Following the exclusive Member on sale date, tickets will then go on sale to 2023/24 Season Ticket Holders from 10am on Friday 28th July, and to supporters with a previous booking history from 10am on Monday 31st July.

Fulham v Brentford is a match category B, with adult tickets priced from £35 and juniors just £24 in the Family Zone (Blocks A, AL, K and KL).

In line with Season Tickets, the Club has introduced a new pricing structure within the Hammersmith End for the start of 2023/24, with tickets in blocks H1 and H8 just £49 for adults and £25 for juniors.

BUY TICKETS FROM 10AM WEDNESDAY

BRENTFORD (H) TICKET PRICING

Area		Adult	Over 65 / 18-21	Junior
Hammersmith	H1 & H8	£49	£43	£25
	H2 & H7	£54	£48	£30
	H3, H4, H5 & H6	£59	£53	£35
Putney	P1 – P4	£59	£53	£35
Johnny Haynes	A, AL, K, KL (Family Zone)	£35	£30	£24
	B,C,D,G,J,H(&Lowers)	£65	£59	£47
	E, EL, F, FL	£83	£77	£59
Riverside	Bronze	£100	£75	£50
	Silver	£105	£80	£55
	Gold	£105	£80	£55
	Platinum Lower	£105	£80	£55

Record Season Ticket sales sees the amount of available home match-by-match tickets now sit at less than 3,000 seats within Craven Cottage. With high demand expected for games this season, supporters are encouraged to buy early before tickets sell out. Official Fulham FC Membership provides first priority to all home ticket on sales, along with a discount on Member tickets*.

During the sales window of each match, prices may increase due to high demand. Any remaining tickets will increase by £5 on matchday.

*Adult/Concession discount of £10 on Riverside ticket, £5 discount in all other areas. Junior discount of £5 across all stands.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/july/25/brentford-h-tickets/

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Fulham on the verge of signing Fode Ballo-Toure
Fode Ballo-Toure is reportedly on the verge of joining Fulham, with the Cottagers sealing an agreement on the transfer fee with AC Milan.

According to a report by Football Insider, Fode Ballo-Toure is the subject of interest from Fulham. And the Cottagers have agreed to the transfer fee for the 26-year-old with Fulham. But talks with the player are yet to end, with personal terms being the last major detail that the London club will need to sort out.

Fode Ballo-Toure spent his formative years in France before graduating from the Paris Saint-Germain Academy. But he only managed to feature regular for PSG's reserve side and earned his big break at LOSC Lille. After leaving Lille, the Senegalese international spent two years with AS Monaco before joining AC Milan in July 2021.

But the 26-year-old has not been a regular for AC Milan, with Theo Hernandez ahead of him in the pecking order. And Ballo-Toure has turned out only 26 times thus far for the Serie A club, chipping in with one goal. Nonetheless, the player has a Serie A winner's medal from his ongoing stint with AC Milan. However, his spell at San Siro will likely end this summer, with Fulham being his next destination.

Fulham's interest in Ballo-Toure is surprising, considering Antonee Robinson will likely be the first-choice left-back next season. And while the USMNT international attracted the attention of several clubs, including Manchester City and Newcastle United, he is not going anywhere in the ongoing transfer window.

In addition, Robinson recently signed a new contract with Fulham and will remain at Craven Cottage for the foreseeable future. So the Cottagers do not need a new left-back. Nonetheless, Fode Ballo-Toure has emerged as a target for Fulham, with the West London club moving swiftly to land him.

The report claims Fulham and AC Milan have sealed an agreement over a transfer fee for the Serie A winner. But the 26-year-old is yet to commit his future to the West London club. So the Cottagers need to sort out the personal terms before finalising the deal to sign Ballo-Toure from AC Milan.

Meanwhile, they have been hard at work this summer, with Raul Jimenez on the verge of joining them. In addition, Demarai Gray is a target for Fulham. And it will be interesting to see if Ballo-Toure moves to Craven Cottage in the ongoing transfer window.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/07/25/fulham-on-the-verge-of-signing-fode-ballo-toure/