Thursday Fulham Stuff - 17/08/23...

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Al-Hilal make fresh £46m bid for Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic after £78m capture of Neymar... with west London side keen on Demarai Gray, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Timothy Castagne

    Fulham want closer to £50m for wantaway striker Aleksandar Mitrovic
    He recently returned to training after vowing never to play for the club again
    Neymar unveiled as an Al-Hilal player after sealing his £78m move from PSG

Al-Hilal have offered £46m for Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic after signing Neymar from Paris St Germain in a £77.6million deal.

Neymar, 31, has agreed a two year contract on a reputed £129million a year and 28-year-old Mitrovic hopes to join him.

Fulham want closer to £50m and are working on deals to sign Everton's Demarai Gray, Callum Hudson-Odoi from Chelsea and Timothy Castagne from Leicester City though their offer for the Belgian is considerably short of the Championship side's valuation.

Mitrovic recently returned to training with Fulham though manager Marco Silva admit the situation 'is not easy' after his star striker was left unsettled by interest from Saudi Arabia.

Previously, Mitrovic was not training with the rest of Silva's squad after reportedly vowing never to play for the club again having seen the Londoners turn down offers from Al-Hilal which would have allowed him to join the growing list of players making lucrative summer moves to the Saudi Pro League.


Al-Hilal have offered £46m for unsettled Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic (above)
 

Neymar has been unveiled as an Al-Hilal player after sealing his £78m move from PSG

Ahead of Fulham's final Premier League Summer Series pre-season fixture against Chelsea , Silva said: 'Yes, Mitrovic is back. It is a process and it is not an easy situation. I am not here to talk about the negotiations and clubs that are linked with him. I am here to talk about my players. Yes, he is with the group. Let's hope we get him as fit as we can in the next few days.

'For me, Mitrovic never was hard to manage. Never, never, never. A lot of people say he has an aura around him but people who know him know he was never a problem or difficult to manage. We have to be honest with him. He was so easy to manage in the beginning of the pre-season and he will be if he stays.

'Mitro knows me, I know him very well. He knows the group we are working with. Everything I said to him and everything he said to me will be between me and him.'

Neymar was pictured in an Al-Hilal kit for the first time on Tuesday after sealing his £78million switch from Paris Saint-Germain.

The Brazilian was seen speaking to the Saudi club's fans in a video on their social media pages where he is heard saying: 'I am here in Saudi Arabia'.

He becomes the latest superstar to make the switch the Kingdom, following the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Sadio Mane to the globe's biggest emerging football division.

He rejected the possibility of a loan move to his former club Barcelona, which would have included an option to buy him outright next year.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12411105/Al-Hilal-make-46m-bid-Fulham-striker-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-completing-78m-capture-Neymar-west-Demarai-Gray-Callum-Hudson-Odoi-Timothy-Castagne.html

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Joao Palhinha could be just what Liverpool need after Romeo Lavia transfer blow confirmed
Welcome to your Liverpool FC morning digest as we pick out a possible Fabinho replacement with Romeo Lavia set to join Moises Caicedo at Chelsea

Liverpool could still sign perfect Fabinho replacement after Moises Caicedo transfer blow

Liverpool and Jurgen Klopp were forced to alter their summer transfer plans after Fabinho's unexpected exit.

After captain Jordan Henderson took up the offer to sign for Steven Gerrard's Al Ettifaq, Fabinho then joined his Reds midfield partner in the Saudi Pro League after agreeing to move to Al Ittihad for £40m.

Given Henderson's transfer also brought in £12m, Liverpool's transfer kitty has been boosted significantly. However, the Reds have so far been having trouble spending it.

They agreed a £111m British transfer record fee with Brighton & Hove Albion for Moises Caicedo. However, he decided to move to Chelsea, who are now also seemingly set to follow their £115m capture of Caicedo with a £55m deal for Southampton's Romeo Lavia, who was also a key target for the Liverpool.

It means, going into the second game of the Premier League season, Klopp remains without a replacement for Fabinho, whose arrival, along with a number of key additions to the German's ranks across 2018 and 2019, was a catalyst in transitioning Liverpool from challengers to serial title winners.

Ready-made is what the Reds need as of now. And this is why there is no option more interesting than the Fulham pivot Joao Palhinha.

Romeo Lavia transfer latest after Liverpool had bid accepted by Southampton
Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox has confirmed that his club did accept a bid from Liverpool for midfielder Romeo Lavia.

The Reds look set to lose out to the Chelsea in the race for the 19-year-old Belgium international. Anfield chiefs originally put forward three bids to Southampton that were all below their £50m evaluation and all of which were rejected with haste.



https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/joao-palhinha-could-just-what-27528391

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Fullham coach gives Reggae Boy high marks

LONDON, England (CMC):

FULHAM MANAGER Marco Silva has praised the impact of Reggae Boy Bobby Reid off the bench after the London club beat Everton 1-0 in their opening game of the English Premier League season last weekend.

A half-time substitute, Reid eventually scored in the winner in the 73rd minute after being set up by former Manchester United star, Andreas Pereira, who was a 58th-minute substitute.

Pereira was part of a double change nearing the hour-mark, Serbia international Aleksandar Mitrović, also entering the game to help Fulham to the points at Goodison Park.

"Great impact from the players that came from the bench – Bobby, Mitro, and Andreas," Silva said afterwards.

"It was nice to see them involved in the goal we scored, a great moment from ourselves, open play moment that combined down our right side and with Bobby on the opposite side.

"It was probably our best moment during the match. But second half, I have to say, was much more balanced."

He continued: "We hit the post as well, like Everton hit the crossbar. We had more chances in the second than the first, but in terms of our compactness, in terms of defensive organisation, it was not really good, not even 50 per cent what it should be."

Fulham were forced to ride their luck in the first half, German goalkeeper Bernd Leno pulling off a string of key saves as Everton wasted a handful of chances in the first half.

It meant that the visitors managed to reach the break without conceding before Silva's changes in the second half changed the outcome.

"That was not a good performance from ourselves at all. I think overall during the game, we didn't perform at our level," he said.

"Even if we started the game well, after the first 15-20 minutes we started to lose so many balls in our build-up, in certain areas. We gave so many chances for Everton to punish us in counter-attacks.

"They had their chances, of course, a good number of chances during the first half because we gave them so many moments for them to punish us.

"To be honest, it was much more our fault because we didn't perform. Bernd kept us in the game. A great, great performance from Bernd Leno kept us in the game in certain moments when we were under pressure.

"We changed some things at half-time; second half was slightly different."

Reid joined Fulham on a permanent deal three and a half years ago and was part of the side that tasted relegation from the Premier League in 2021.

He scored eight goals in the Championship the following season as Fulham bounced straight back up.



https://jamaica-gleaner.com/article/sports/20230816/fullham-coach-gives-reggae-boy-high-marks

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Saudi's Al Hilal Make Bold £47m Move for Mitrovic
Fulham's Star Striker in the Spotlight

In the vibrant heart of west London, a football tale of desire and valuations unfurls.

The Temptation from the East
Fulham, it seems, finds themselves in the midst of an escalating saga with a staggering £47 million on the table from Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal for their Serbian sharpshooter, Aleksandar Mitrovic. The pull of the East is strong. The lure of Saudi Arabia's burgeoning football scene becomes a powerful seduction for even the most established Premier League personalities.

Behind the Scenes: The Money Talks
TalkSport unveiled details of an eye-watering £21.3 million-per-year package, roughly translating to £400,000 weekly, earmarked for Mitrovic. And while previous bids, from the realms of £25.5m to £35m, faced the unwavering resolve of Fulham's top brass, the price on the Serbian's head hovers around the £52 million mark.

"Mitrovic had been offered a £21.3million-per-year contract, equating to £400,000-per-week."

Inside sources whisper of Mitrovic's determination, voicing to close kin his resolution never to don the white of Fulham again, even with three seasons remaining on his Fulham ledger.

A Journey of Goals and Passion
Having racked up an impressive 111 goals from 205 outings since his 2017/18 loan spell, Mitrovic's mark on Fulham is indelible. His prowess played no small part in hoisting the club to a commendable tenth in the Premier League just last year.

Should the Cottagers relent, Mitrovic would share the pitch with Brazilian sensation Neymar, the latest jewel in Al Hilal's glinting crown. Their recent acquisitions list reads like a who's who of European elite, featuring the likes of Ruben Neves and Malcom.



https://eplindex.com/94485/saudis-al-hilal-make-bold-47m-move-for-mitrovic.html

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Car Parking: Fulham U21s (H)
Information on spaces for Fratton fixture

Car parking spaces will soon be going on sale for Pompey's next midweek Fratton fixture.

Fulham U21s visit the south coast for the opening group game in the EFL Trophy on latest League One contest on Tuesday, August 22 (7.45pm kick-off).

Car parking spaces for the game will be available to buy from 5pm today (August 16).

All parking must be pre-booked online here, with no spaces available to purchase on the day.

Spaces are priced £10 per car (or £5 per car for those fans with a valid blue badge).

Match tickets are still available to purchase in the South Stand, so click here to secure your seat.



https://www.portsmouthfc.co.uk/news/2023/august/car-parking-fulham-u21s-h/

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Fulham receive new Aleksandar Mitrovic bid with striker confident over Neymar link-up in Saudi Arabia

Al-Hilal have submitted a fresh offer for the Serbian frontman as they target a strike partner for their new Brazilian superstar

Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic is increasingly confident that he will get his big-money move to Saudi Arabia.

Al-Hilal have made an improved bid of £46million for Mitrovic and there are hopes that Fulham will accept the offer.

Mitrovic is in line to more than triple his £120,000-a-week wages in the Middle East.

Fulham have been reluctant to lose the Serbian striker but the latest offer from Al-Hilal is close to their asking price.

Al-Hilal are ready to pay the entire transfer fee up front, which would give Fulham funds to sign a replacement before the end of the summer window.

The Cottagers signed Raul Jimenez in a £5m deal from Wolves last month but they will seek to bring in another forward if Mitrovic leaves.


Partnership: Al-Hilal want Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic to partner new signing Neymar / Various

Mitrovic could partner Neymar at Al-Hilal after they on Tuesday officially completed a £77m move for the Brazilian star, who will earn a reported £2.5m a week in Saudi Arabia.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/mitrovic-fulham-saudi-arabia-neymar-b1100966.html

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Fulham: Cottagers still looking at Timothy Castagne
Marco Silva's side now face growing competition for the defender...

    Fulham face competition from top clubs for the signing of Leicester's Timothy Castagne.
    Fulham is concerned about potential outgoings, but are determined to keep Aleksandar Mitrovic.
    Castagne has been praised for his defensive capabilities and top-flight experience, but there are doubts about whether he would be a necessary signing for Fulham.

Fulham are still looking at signing Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne this summer, but they are now facing growing competition from some of Europe's top clubs, according to a new report.

What's the latest Fulham transfer news?
As we enter the final two weeks of the summer transfer window, the Cottagers seem to be more concerned about potential outgoings, rather than making more additions to their squad, having already signed Calvin Bassey, Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore.

There are no guarantees that Willian will remain at Craven Cottage beyond the deadline at the beginning of next month, with club chiefs "worried" the winger will complete a move to Saudi Arabia, despite only putting pen to paper on a new one-year contract last month.

Aleksandar Mitrovic could also end up in the Saudi Pro League, with a £46m bid recently being tabled, but Fulham are now "determined" to keep hold of him, and they believe they will be able to do so, with the Serbian making a 32-minute cameo against Everton at the weekend.

With Joao Palhinha now emerging as a transfer target for Liverpool, Marco Silva has a real battle on his hands trying to keep hold of some of his best players this summer, but he is also still keen to strengthen in other areas.

According to a report from The Express, Fulham are looking at signing Leicester defender Castagne, who is yet to feature for the Foxes in the Championship this season, perhaps indicating he may be allowed to leave.

It has previously been made clear that the Belgian wants to leave the Championship club this summer, but the Cottagers now face growing competition in the race for his signature, with Juventus also keen.

As a result of Jurrien Timber's recent injury, Arsenal are also weighing up a move for the 27-year-old, so Silva's side will have to fend off interest from some of the continent's top clubs if they are to get a deal over the line.

How good is Timothy Castagne?
The Leicester ace has been lauded as "brilliant" by members of the media, and he ranks very highly across a number of key defensive metrics, placing in the 80th percentile for tackles per 90, the 84th for aerials won and the 94th for clearances, when compared to his positional peers.

With 91 Premier League appearances to his name, the Arlon-born defender has a great deal of top-flight experience, and he also starred for Atalanta in the Serie A, showcasing his attacking threat by recording six goal contributions in the 2018-19 campaign.

However, the former Atalanta man struggled last season, en-route to the Foxes' relegation from the top flight, with his average Sofascore rating placing him just 13th in the Leicester squad, and there are doubts over whether he would be a necessary signing.

The £65k-per-week defender could cost around €15m (£13m), yet Kenny Tete has averaged more tackles, interceptions and blocks per 90 in the past year, while also offering more in an attacking sense, recording a higher amount of shot-creating actions and assists.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-timothy-castagne-transfer-news-rumours-updates/

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Jay Stansfield: QPR transfer link latest, Fulham stance on his future
A number of Championship clubs have enquired about a loan move for young Fulham FC forward Jay Stansfield

    QPR and several other Championship clubs have enquired about a loan move for Fulham striker Jay Stansfield, who impressed on loan at Exeter last season.
    Fulham would be willing to grant a temporary move for Stansfield if the right opportunity arises, as he is actively seeking a move to the Championship.
    There are conflicting reports on whether Stansfield could stay at Fulham and be part of their first team plans, especially with uncertainty surrounding Aleksandar Mitrovic's future.

QPR are one of at least four Championship clubs to have made an enquiry for young Fulham FC striker Jay Stansfield.

The 20-year-old impressed on loan at Exeter, last season, where he formerly played for the academy. He scored nine goals in 36 appearances in the league.

He recently went on a pre-season tour with his parent club, and he featured in three of the five games that the Cottagers played.

But with any game time in the Premier League not guaranteed, Stansfield appears to be looking for a move to the Championship.

What's going on with Jay Stansfield?
According to a report from the Evening Standard, second-tier side Queens Park Rangers have enquired about a loan move for Stansfield.

eportedly, Fulham would be happy to grant a temporary move for the striker, if it was the right one, and he is actively seeking a change in location for the 2023-24 season.

The Evening Standard have said that the R's aren't the only ones in the league who have been looking at bringing in the 20-year-old. They reported that at least three other teams have asked Fulham about a loan move for Stansfield, but who the other clubs are is unknown.

Could Stansfield stay at Fulham?
There are other reports that suggest that the 20-year-old could be part of his parent club's plans for the upcoming season.

With the future of their star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic up in the air, there could be an opening in the first team squad for Stansfield. Reports from Darren Witcoop suggest that this could be the case.

How good is Jay Stansfield?
The Cottagers' forward prospect will bring class and quality to whichever squad he's playing for this year. His time with The Grecians last season showed that.

There would have been a lot of pressure on him on his return to the South West; the club that both he and his father, Adam Stansfield, had represented. Add on top of that that the club had retired his dad's number nine shirt after he passed away from cancer, in 2010, and un-retired it so that he could wear it. That's some weight to carry on your shoulders at the age of 19, but he excelled.

He has maturity beyond his years and the footballing ability to go with it. Not only was he a goal threat in League One, last season, but he provided seven assists as well. He's a forward who will be comfortable playing anywhere across the frontline. This should be particulary appealing to QPR fans.

Rangers currently sit 16th in the Championship having lost 4-0 to Watford and beat Cardiff 2-1 in their opening two games of the season. They only have three recognised strikers at the club (Lyndon Dykes, Sinclair Armstrong and Charlie Kelman) so the addition of a talent like Stansfield would be welcomed at Loftus Road, if he were to join.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/jay-stansfield-qpr-fulham-transfer/

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Fulham interest in player has 'shook' club – Trying to price them out of transfer
Fulham's interest in defender Juan Ignacio Nardoni has 'shook' his current side, Racing Club, who are trying to price Marco Silva's side out of a transfer.

That's according to Racing de Alma, who say the Argentine club are not keen on selling the 21-year-old this summer.

A report yesterday from Italy stated that Fulham had turned their attention towards Nardoni and signalled their intent to get a transfer over the line before the end of the window.

Racing de Alma pick up on that report and explain that Nardoni is considered an important player for the club, mostly because he is a key part of manager Fernando Gago's plans but also because of the financial effort to get him.

That effort saw them tie him to a deal until 2025 and set their asking price at €25m, a figure similar to the release clause in that deal.

His clause is actually €22m but the hope is to sell him for €3m higher than that as it would allow them to secure around €20m clean when various figures are removed.

So, to be clear, the defender has a €22m release clause but the Argentine side would prefer to sell him in a deal worth €25m instead. It would make little sense for any club to agree to that on the face of it, but it may be a case of payment terms.

If any club were to activate the clause it needs paying in full, while the €25m figure could presumably be met via various clauses or instalments.

Either way, Racing would prefer not to sell to Fulham if they can avoid it and that is why they have set such a high asking price. They want to price the Premier League side out of a move and are now waiting to see if they push ahead or look elsewhere.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-interest-player-shook-club-trying-price-transfer/

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Analysed: Cheick Doucoure vs Joao Palhinha - who suits Liverpool?
Liverpool's search for a third midfield addition continues.

The Reds spent weeks negotiating with Southampton over a possible deal for Romeo Lavia but felt the valuation placed on the 19-year-old was ultimately too high, so walked away. They quickly pivoted their interest to Moises Caicedo and agreed a British record fee for the midfielder only for the 21-year-old to opt for a move to Chelsea.

So now, with the season underway and the transfer window edging to its close, Jurgen Klopp finds himself without a defensive midfielder and the pool of options is shrinking by the day. The important thing though is that there are still options out there.

According to multiple reports, the Reds are interested in Premier League duo Cheick Doucoure and Joao Palhinha. Others have also been mentioned but experience in the English top-flight will play a part in decision-making at this point of the window. If players are used to the rigours of the Premier League, their adaption should, in theory, be much easier. And the Reds need someone to come in and immediately impact things.

So, how do Doucoure and Palhinha compare and which of the two would be better suited to a move to Anfield?

Cheick Doucoure
Signed by Crystal Palace from Lens last summer in a deal worth £18million. Patrick Vieira wasted no time and stuck the midfielder into his starting XI. Even after the Frenchman's departure, the 23-year-old remained in the team, starting under Roy Hodgson. He appeared in 34 of Palace's 38 Premier League games and racked up close to 2,800 minutes.

Not only did Doucoure adapt to a new league, but he also adapted to a completely different system. While in France, the 5ft11 midfielder was a lot more progressive in his play.

For example, in his final season in Ligue 1, he was averaging 60 passes per 90 with a success rate of 87%, per FBref. He was also racking up impressive progressive passing distance numbers, averaging 248 yards per 90. For context here, his average for Palace was just 173 yards and he was averaging just 40 passes per 90.  His Expected Goals assisted was almost double what it was last season (0.11 in Ligue 1, 0.06 in the Premier League).

Doucoure was also averaging 2.93 shot-creating actions for Lens while also attempting more take-ons on a per 90 basis. He also had a take-on success rate of over 70%.

For a little more insight here, Fabinho was fairly busy defensively but he was also heavily involved - attempting over 60 passes per 90 and having a pass success rate of over 88%.

So, you have a midfielder who doesn't shirk his defensive responsibilities but he's also extremely progressive, both with his passing and with his ball-carrying. Doucoure was also a key part in Seko Fofana's emergence too, proving himself to be a facilitator for other midfielders. This is what Liverpool are after, aren't they? They need someone who can do the dirty work so that Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai are freed up offensively.

Judging him solely on his performances for Crystal Palace isn't necessarily fair. He is just doing what is needed for their system to function. The Eagles didn't really see a lot of the ball, averaging just 46% possession last season per FBref. They seemed to flip-flop with their shape, alternating between 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1. Their formation didn't really dictate their style though - they wanted to sit a little deeper and play on the break so it makes sense for their midfielders to be fairly active without the ball while having limited numbers in possession. After all, they were tasked with being fairly direct.

Take that into account but also factor in his showing in Lens to build a much fairer picture of Doucoure.

Joao Palhinha
The same could be said for the Fulham man too.

Obviously, Palhinha was brilliant last season and that is why he's being linked with big-money moves away. FBref highlights just how effective he is at disrupting play, putting him in the 99th percentile for tackles, the 88th percentile for clearances and the 99th percentile for aerial duels won.

However, his on-ball numbers were much better in Portugal and he was averaging 50 passes per 90 compared to the 36 he managed at Fulham. He also had a pass success rate of 87% with Sporting in his final season there, up on the 83% he averaged with the Premier League side.

He wasn't truly able to show off his ability in possession following the move to England. The 28-year-old had to adapt to a system playing for a team that wasn't one of the dominant ones and therefore his numbers dropped off. It made it difficult for people to appreciate what he was capable of doing.

For Liverpool, though, he would have to combine the two parts of his game. Without the ball, he would have to be as dominant as he was at Fulham. With the ball, he would need to be more like the Sporting version.



https://anfieldwatch.co.uk/analysed-cheick-doucoure-vs-joao-palhinha-who-suits-liverpool/

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Only Club I Want – Fulham Star Makes Transfer Admission
Fulham striker Aleksandar Mitrovic has claimed that he is desperate to join Al-Hilal in the ongoing summer transfer window.

Al-Hilal have been trying to sign the forward all summer and the player is clear about wanting to take up the Saudi opportunity by leaving Fulham.

The Cottagers are reluctant to lose their number one striker but are under pressure to sell him after receiving a £46m bid from Al-Hilal.

Mitrovic has had an agreement with the Saudi side for some time now and is pushing Fulham to let him go in the ongoing summer transfer window.

The striker admitted that he is desperate to join Al-Hilal and they remain the only club he wants to join this summer.

Mitrovic indicated that he is hopeful that he will eventually end up at Al-Hilal in the ongoing transfer window.

The Serbian told journalist Ahmed Ragab: "I want to come to Al-Hilal very much, as they are the only club I want to join.

"And I am praying to God for that."

Fulham are likely to bank a big fee if Mitrovic is sold to Al Hilal this month.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/08/16/only-club-i-want-fulham-star-makes-transfer-admission/615774/

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Fulham reject Monaco bid for Tosin
Fulham have turned down a £8.5m offer for defender Tosin Adarabioyo from Monaco, according to Sky Sports.

The former Manchester City centre back is keen on moving to the Ligue 1 side this summer and has been left out of the Fulham squad for the past fortnight as negotiations continued between the clubs over a possible permanent move. Monaco have improved their bid having had a £4m initial offer rejected last month – but Fulham are not willing to sell the ball-playing centre back on the cheap even though he has entered the last twelve months of his current Craven Cottage contract.

Tosin, who has made 107 first-appearances since signing for Fulham from Manchester City in September 2020, has told Fulham he does not intend to extend his stay with the Whites beyond next summer having been disappointed to lose his place to Issa Diop last season. He had been linked with Inter Milan and Tottenham Hotspur this summer, but would prefer to move to France.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-reject-monaco-bid-for-tosin/

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Monaco's €10m bid for Tosin Adarabioyo rejected by Fulham
According to The Athletic, AS Monaco have seen a €10m bid for Tosin Adarabioyo (25) rejected. The centre-back has just one-year remaining on his deal with the Cottagers.

Monaco are looking to further strengthen their defensive department. The Principality club have already secured the arrival of Mohammed Salisu from Southampton for a reported €15m, whilst Wilfried Singo (22) looks set to join from Serie A side Torino. The club have lost Axel Disasi to Chelsea, and speaking ahead of Monaco's Ligue 1 opener against Clermont Foot, new sporting director Thiago Scuro revealed that they were in the market for more defenders.

Adarabioyo has been on Monaco's radar for some time, and the club had an interest in January without making advances towards securing his signature. However, Les Monégasques have launched two bids this summer. The first of €7m plus add-ons was rejected, and their latest offer of €10m has also been rejected by Fulham. Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring the situation, according to The Athletic.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/monacos-e10m-bid-for-tosin-adarabioyo-rejected-by-fulham/

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Fulham make move to sign Juan Ignacio Nardoni
Fulham are pushing hard for the signatures of the 21-year-old Racing Club midfielder Juan Ignacio Nardoni.

According to a report by Tuttomercatoweb, Fulham are looking to bolster their midfield before the end of the transfer window and have their eyes set on Argentine sensation Juan Ignacio Nardoni. The 21-year-old has been in sensational form over the last 12 months, and he is on the radar of quite a few clubs across Europe.

Nardoni came through the ranks at CA Unión before joining the Racing Club earlier this year. He has since featured in a total of 35 matches and even has seven goal contributions to his name.

The 21-year-old has put in some impressive performances of late. He has been equally effective as a central midfielder as well as a defensive midfielder. His performances have not gone unnoticed, and there are quite a few clubs interested in his signatures.

While his contract runs until the end of 2025, there is a real possibility of him making the move to a European club in the ongoing window. Fulham are one of the clubs that are desperate to have him in their ranks. And amid Joao Palhinha's fresh links with Liverpool, the need a midfielder.

Fulham are looking to add more depth as well as quality to their squad. And, with the clock ticking the Cottagers are looking to land the 21-year-old at the club before deadline day. Recent reports have also linked Fulham with Fausto Vera.

Meanwhile, Marco Silva is a huge admirer of the Argentine midfielder and wants him in his ranks. He has asked his club to complete his signings as soon as possible. And, the Cottagers have started making moves.

They have informed both the player as well as his club about their interest. And the fact that they want to close the deal in the coming days. Fulham are already aware of Racing Club's valuation as the Argentine club are looking for €25 million for the 21-year-old.

The Cottagers have formally informed about their intentions of getting a deal over the line, and they are all set to begin negotiations in the coming days. While they are keen on having him in their ranks, there are other clubs who could make life difficult for them.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2023/08/16/fulham-make-move-to-sign-juan-ignacio-nardoni/

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Portsmouth Tickets

Secure your seat at Fratton Park, where our Under-21s will go head-to-head with Portsmouth's senior side in the group stage of the EFL Trophy.

Tickets can be bought on the gate on matchday, or via the Portsmouth ticket office in person or over the phone (0345 646 1898).

Hayden Mullins' side take on Pompey on Tuesday 22nd August, with kick-off at 7:45pm.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/16/Portsmouth-Tickets/

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Fulham: Cottagers keen on Juan Ignacio Nardoni
Marco Silva's side have already contacted Racing Club to discuss a deal.

Fulham have now made contact with Racing Club over Juan Ignacio Nardoni, and a new report has revealed they may have to shell out a huge fee for the midfielder...

Who are Fulham signing this summer?
Liverpool have now made it clear they are interested in signing Joao Palhinha, meaning Fulham may have an even more pressing need to bring in a central midfielder, having targeted a player in that area of the pitch earlier in the window.

The Cottagers were priced out of a move for Fred, with Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth claiming Manchester United were "asking for too much money", and the Brazilian has since gone on to join Fenerbahce.

An alternative option for Marco Silva's side was AC Milan's Charles De Ketelaere, however he is now poised to join Atalanta, meaning they could be forced to move on to other targets, and they have now identified a surprising new option.

According to reports from Italy (via Sport Witness), Fulham have shown the "most interest" out of all the clubs to come forward for Nardoni, and they are now "seriously thinking" about making him their latest summer signing.

Contact has already been made with both Racing Club and the 21-year-old's entourage to discuss a deal, and negotiations could even be set to start in the next few days. If the west Londoners are to prise the youngster away from Racing Club, they will have to be prepared to spend big, with it being reported the Argentinian side value him at around €25m (£21m).

More recent updates from Argentina (via Sport Witness), state that Racing are trying to price Silva's side out of a transfer, as they are not keen on selling the midfielder this summer because he is considered an important player.

Who is Juan Ignacio Nardoni?
Born in Nelson, Argentina, the starlet has burst onto the scene in his home country, after coming through the youth ranks at Club Atletico Union, making a total of 35 appearances for Racing Club, during which time he has amassed two goals and five assists.

Although he has shown he is capable of posing a threat on the front foot, the maestro often plays in a more defensive central midfield role, indicating that he is a very well-rounded player.

Journalist Fabian Godoy has previously spoken very highly of the Racing star, praising him for his physical attributes, as well as his passing ability, while also branding him a "top player."

However, the Argentine's contract is not currently set to expire until December 2025, leaving Racing in a strong negotiating position, and it would probably be unwise for Fulham to meet their demands and shell out £21m.

A fee of €25m (£21m) would make the former Club Atletico Union man the Cottagers' second-most expensive signing of all time, which would be a huge risk, considering Nardoni is unproven outside of Argentina.

If Fulham choose to accept Al-Hilal's £46m bid for Aleksandar Mitrovic, they will have the funds to strengthen multiple areas of their squad, but they should target players who have more experience at the top level.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-juan-ignacio-nardoni-transfer-news-rumours/

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Why Fulham must finish the summer strongly
You could make a decent case for this summer's transfer window for being one of the most insane ever. The Saudi Arabian intrusion into the not-so-beautiful came has threatened the Premier League's hegemony as well as the major European leagues with the PIF-backed sides splashing the cash on every star name going. Turkish clubs have attracted a number of big names and the big money has flowed all over the place. Chelsea's extravagance have seen them spent nearly £170m on two midfielders, Arsenal splurged more than £100m on Declan Rice, Bournemouth have quietly conducted some smart business whilst Wolves have sold a host of key players and changed their manager.

How have Fulham fared meanwhile? The Whites have been very quiet over the close season, adding just three players to what remains a threadbare squad with only a fortnight of the window remaining. There's no doubt that Marco Silva has, like his predecessors, become frustrated with the glacial pace of Fulham's recruitment and it is hard to agree with the prevailing view that Whites have failed to build on the momentum generated by last season's tenth place finish.

In the Premier League, if you don't spend every summer you run the risk of standing still. With teams winning promotion and others spending big over failing to hit their targets over the previous nine months, the top flight is in a constant state of flux. Fulham needed to strengthen in order to establish themselves in the Premier League to try and extend their stay amongst English football's elite as Mohamed Al-Fayed did following promotion in 2001. Shahid Khan has spoken of the need to become sustainable, which requires more supporters sponsors, and revenue, as well as building the brand. On the pitch, it is vital for Fulham to avoid the pitfalls of 'second season syndrome': you'd expect a winner like Silva has bigger ambitions than merely staying up.

You can't quibble with Fulham's three summer signings. Calvin Bassey has undoubted potential, as shown by his outstanding performances as Rangers reached the Europa League final. Raul Jimenez was one of Europe's most potent goalscorers before his shocking head injury disrupted his progress at Wolves. Adama Traore is a smart signing on a free transfer after leaving Molineux – and all three are likely to bring experience, flair and goals to Fulham – but there's no doubt that the Whites need more before the window slams shut.

As ever, Fulham have been linked with a whole host of names but are they really the players to take the Cottagers to the next level? Are the likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Demarai Gray, whom we've apparently been close to signing for the past three weeks, better than the wingers who departed Craven Cottage last season? Neeskens Kebano showed us what a tireless winger can achieve in the top-flight. Hudson-Odoi hasn't pulled up any trees for Chelsea in recent years and struggled during last season's loan spell with Bayer Leverkusen. He might still have some potential at 22, but we've seen how wide man can flatter to deceive in a division where the fixtures come at you fast. Remember Ademola Lookman or even Manor Solomon?

Fulham also missed out on some important targets. Roger Ibanez, known to interesting Fulham over the course of the summer as a classy centre half, signed for Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League and Fred, who held that impromptu post-match meeting with Marco Silva before the Whites left Old Trafford after their final fixture of the season in May, went to Fenerbahce. The small nature of Silva's squad means that a strong finish to the transfer window is vital – and we know how Tony Khan loves a late trolley dash.

The elephant in the room is what will happen to Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is still the subject of serious interest from Al-Hilal. The Saudi Arabian side, who flirted with Silva as well over the course of the summer, have still yet to meet Fulham's asking price for the Serbian striker but if they do then that will deliver a huge blow to Silva's plans. Fulham's whole gameplan is structured around our talismanic number nine, who made the winning goal at Goodison Park on Saturday with a peach of a pass. Any sale would be something of a gamble – as Fulham would lose a proven Premier League goalscorer and have little time to find a replacement. Beto could be an option, but he appears likely to join Everton. Who else could we get? Whoever they are they will need help filling Mitro's boots?

The calibre of signings is also vital if Fulham are to move forward. The Whites still need to strengthen our options at full back and in midfield before the start of September. We can't afford to end up with another loan deal for Timothy Fosu-Mensah. We've been regularly linked with Luca Pellegrini as if the last few years haven't happened. Acquisitions are important if only to get more bodies through the door – so thin were Fulham's defensive resources during the Premier League Summer Series in the Stats, that without the services of Tim Ream and Tosin Adarabioyo, who is still hankering after his own move, Silva had to rely on teenage defender Luc de Fougerolles.

Silva would have wanted a pre-season with some of his new signings in order to drill them in his tactical approach and get them gelling with their new team-mates. There remains a question over how much Financial Fair Play headroom Fulham have at present, even though their summer of sensational spending in 2018 now drops off the profit and sustainability ledger. I know that pulling off big money savings is far from easy, what with agents, clubs and players playing potential destinations off against each other. Fulham also like to procure bargains by waiting until the tail end of the transfer window – but the margin for error is now scant.

The Fulham hierarchy, like the fans, have immense faith in Silva after his fabulous first two years at the helm. But matching the head coach's ambition will prove pivotal in convincing him to commit his long-term future to the Craven Cottage project. At the moment, the Whites risk making his job much tougher by waiting until the last minute. From the outside, it seems a wholly unnecessary gamble given Fulham's remarkable revival under Silva since he succeeded Scott Parker.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/why-fulham-must-finish-the-summer-strongly/

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Fulham interested as Manchester United agree to Eric Bailly free transfer
After an underwhelming loan spell with Marseille last season, Ivorian international defender Éric Bailly is now back at Manchester United, with the Ligue 1 club opting against triggering the permanent option in the deal that first brought him to Ligue 1 last summer.

The 29-year-old, who is under contract until the end of the upcoming campaign, now looks set to be on the move again. According to RMC Sport this evening, Bailly has reached an agreement with the Red Devils by which he will leave on a free transfer.

The former Villarreal man could remain in the Premier League, with Fulham reportedly interested in making a move. Bailly also has potential suitors in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, although he has already turned dow an offer from Beşiktaş.

Bailly left Les Phocéens having made 23 appearances in all competitions, including a Coupe de France clash against Hyères in which he was sent off after 15 minutes for a high boot into the chest of an opponent.



https://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2023/fulham-interested-as-manchester-united-agree-to-eric-bailly-free-transfer/

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Fulham fancy Bailly deal
Fulham are interested in signing Eric Bailly on a free transfer after the Ivorian international reached an agreement with Manchester United to terminate his current contract.

The Whites are seeking defensive reinforcements in the final weeks of the transfer window with Marco Silva preparing for life after Tosin Adarabioyo, even though Fulham today rejected a £8.5m bid from Monaco for the wantaway centre half. Bailly, who endured a disappointing loan stint at Marseille last term, has finally reached agreement on the terms of his departure from Old Trafford according to a report from RMC Sport this evening.

The 29 year-old defender, who has made 113 appearances for United since joining in a £30m move from Villarreal in 2016, is apparently keen on remaining in the Premier League and has already rejected an approach from Be?ikta?. Bailly, who has 49 senior caps for the Ivory Coast and helped his country win the African Nations Cup seven years ago, lifted the Europa League and League Cup during his time at United.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-fancy-bailly-deal/

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Fulham interested in signing Manchester United defender Eric Bailly
Fulham have emerged as a potential destination for Manchester United's wantaway defender Eric Bailly according to a report from France.

The Cottagers are the latest club to be linked with a move for the Ivorian, whose future certainly lies away from Old Trafford.

A report covered by The Peoples Person explained that despite reaching an agreement over personal terms with Besiktas, Bailly's transfer to the Turkish giants collapsed.

This is because United would not budge on their stance of letting the player leave for nothing.

It was relayed that the Red Devils rejected a demand from Bailly for him to be paid a ridiculous £700,000 loyalty bonus.

On his part, the centre-back also elected to no longer pursue a switch to Besiktas.

RMC Sports' Fabrice Hawkins has revealed that the 29-year-old has reached an agreement with the 20-time English champions over a free exit.

This means that Erik ten Hag's side will no longer demand a fee from anyone looking to secure Bailly's signature.

This arrangement between the parties could allow the Ivory Coast international to finally move on and find regular gametime somewhere else.

Such an opportunity would give him the chance to still play at the highest level under a top boss in the form of Marco Silva.

Bailly also has options in Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Al-Nassr were thought to be keen on re-uniting the United star with Cristiano Ronaldo but that deal has broken down after they chose to chase Manchester City's Aymeric Laporte.



https://thepeoplesperson.com/2023/08/16/fulham-interested-in-signing-manchester-united-defender-eric-bailly-268162/