Friday Fulham Stuff - 18/08/23...

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Fulham consider move for £50m-rated Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun with Aleksandar Mitrovic set to leave for Al-Hilal, with Cottagers also asking about Man United defender Eric Bailly

    Fulham are considering Arsenal's Folarin Balogun, who is valued at £50m
    Aleksandar Mitrovic is set to leave for Al-Hilal and Balogun could replace him

Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal's £50m-rated striker Folarin Balogun as they prepare to sell Aleksandar Mitrovic to Al-Hilal.

Fulham also retain an interest in Benfica defender Morato and have asked about Eric Bailly at Manchester United.

Balogun impressed on loan at Reims last season as he scored 22 goals and he could now depart permanently.

22-year-old centre-back Morato is a product of Benfica's academy and has made 51 senior appearances for the club.

Fulham had a bid of £18million for Morato turned down last month. Morato has told Benfica that he wants to leave. 


Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal's £50million-rated striker Folarin Balogun
 

Balogun could replace Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is likely to leave Fulham for Al-Hilal

Bailly is back at United after a loan spell at Marseille.

So far in this transfer window Fulham have brought in Raul Jimenez, Calvin Bassey and Adama Traore.

Marco Silva's side started their season with a 1-0 win away to Everton.

Fulham host Brentford on Saturday before travelling to take on Arsenal on August 26.


Fulham also retain an interest in a possible move for 22-year-old Benfica centre-back Morato
 

In addition, Fulham have asked about Manchester United centre-back Eric Bailly



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12415121/Fulham-consider-50m-rated-Arsenal-striker-Folarin-Balogun-Aleksandar-Mitrovic-set-leave-Al-Hilal.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham now want 'phenomenal' Arsenal player as they prepare for £40m sale
Fulham are considering a move for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as they edge closer to selling Aleksandar Mitrovic to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal this summer.

That is according to a report from the Daily Mail, which notes that Marco Silva's men have their eye on the Gunners starlet in the final couple of weeks in the window.

Folarin Balogun is facing a race against time to get out of Arsenal. The 22-year-old has played no part in their season so far. And it appears that Mikel Arteta is content with the idea of letting him go.

Fulham eye Balogun as potential replacement for Mitrovic
However, Arsenal are not going to make it easy for the USMNT international to leave. The Daily Mail reports that Balogun is valued at £50 million.

And he could get the chance to move across the capital, with Fulham considering an approach. As reported by the Guardian, the Cottagers look set to sell Aleksandar Mitrovic for more than £40 million.

Mitrovic's departure would leave big shoes to fill. But obviously, Fulham are up against the clock at this stage of the window.

Balogun would be an interesting choice for the club. He is still unproven in the Premier League. But Arteta described his form on loan with Reims last season as 'phenomenal'.

If he could carry that form over, he could be an absolutely amazing signing. But that feels like a big if when you also consider that he previously struggled on loan at Middlesbrough.

Understandably, Balogun will argue that he is yet to really get the chance to show what he can do in England. And that may tempt Fulham to roll the dice on a potential deal.

It is certainly going to be interesting to see what happens should Mitrovic now seal his move to Saudi Arabia.



https://tbrfootball.com/fulham-now-want-phenomenal-arsenal-player-as-they-prepare-for-40m-sale/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham eye Balogun as Mitrovic replacement
This morning's Daily Mail carries a report claiming that Fulham are considering the young Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun as a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Whites remain reluctant to let their Serbian striker join Al-Hilal, especially as the Saudi Pro League side have still failed to meet their £52m valuation. The latest bid is believed to be worth up to £46m and head coach Marco Silva still views the 28 year-old striker as an essential part of his strike force after the former Newcastle forward came off the bench to turn Fulham's opening fixture at Everton in their favour by starting the move that led to Bobby De Cordova-Reid's winner. Mitrovic has scored 111 goals in 206 appearances since moving to Craven Cottage in 2018 – initially on loan.

Selling Mitrovic, who scored fifteen times in all competitions last season as Silva's side finished tenth on their return to the top flight, this close to end of the summer transfer window would be a gamble for Fulham. The Mail suggests that they are interested in offering Balogun, who has made just ten first-team appearances for the Gunners scoring twice goals, an opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League – although the Whites would probably baulk at the £50m asking price.

The 22 year-old striker, who scored his first international goal for the United States in CONCACAF Gold Cup final win over Canada earlier this summer having switched his allegiance from England, scored 22 goals in 39 games on loan at Ligue 1 Stade de Reims last season. Arsenal have already rejected an offer from Monaco for Balogun, who has two years to run on his contract at the Emirates.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-eye-balogun-as-mitrovic-replacement/

[WhiteJC]

Bernd Leno believes European football should be the aim for Fulham
Bernd Leno insists Fulham should be looking to finish the job and qualify for Europe this season – and even joked they should be aiming to win the Premier League title.

The Germany goalkeeper saw a run of eight defeats in their last 13 top-flight matches end any hope of reaching the European places last term.

Marco Silva's side still finished tenth, a disappointing end to a superb first campaign back in the top flight but at least this time there was no struggle with relegation.

Now, following Saturday's 1-0 win at Everton, Leno believes the Londoners should be aiming high again.

Asked what Fulham's ambitions should be for the new campaign, he told Metro: 'Same as last season – after 20-25 matches we can change the target and say, "We go for Europe or mid-table or whatever" or for the (league) trophy. No, I'm joking!

'We prepare just for [the next game] and not what could happen next year in May.'

Leno claims running Manchester City and Manchester United close both home and away last term should provide belief that Fulham are on an equal footing with their more established opponents.

'I think now everyone knows we can compete. We can compete with the big teams, especially at home,' he added. 'When you see United and City, they struggled against us.

'At the end we lost these games but you saw they were decided by details – in the last minute against United.

'We know how we can compete against these teams and they also know what they can expect from us so it will be a challenge.'

The Fulham No.1 admits the fact the transfer window remains open, with the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and Joao Palhinha attracting attention, ensures the next few weeks will not be easy.

Striker Mitrovic was wanted by Saudi side Al-Hilal, who are tipped to be back with a new bid of £47million, while boss Silva turned down a £40m offer from Al-Ahli. Palhinha, meanwhile, has been linked to Liverpool and West Ham.

There could also be incomings before Saturday's derby at home to Brentford and Leno said: 'Every season you have the same problem. Last year, I came in one day before the first game against Liverpool. I had no pre-season because I didn't train much at Arsenal, no friendlies, nothing.

'I had zero rhythm so I had to adapt as quick as possible but that's our job and that is why we are professionals. The team is very nice to adapt to and the fans make it very easy for players to adapt and get the confidence so I don't worry about it.'

Leno, who left the Emirates in search of regular first-team football, was close to Aaron Ramsdale, the man who went on to replace him in goal for the Gunners.

Ramsdale recently revealed his wife suffered a miscarriage in January. Asked whether he had reached out to Ramsdale, Leno said: 'No, not yet. I think I really appreciate him as a person, he's a really good guy, even when we were both Arsenal goalkeepers we had a very good relationship

'Soon I am going to speak with him and I think credit to him that he speaks about his personal life very openly and I wish him all the best for the future.'



https://metro.co.uk/2023/08/17/bernd-leno-believes-european-football-should-be-the-aim-for-fulham-19343495/?ito=newsnow-feed

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Leno: 'Everyone knows we can compete'
Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno believes the rest of the Premier League won't be underestimating Fulham this season after their exploits last year.

The Cottagers enjoyed an excellent return to the top flight last season, surprising most of the pundits by finishing tenth. The German international, who was outstanding as Marco Silva's side began the new campaign with a 1-0 win at Everton last Saturday, is full of belief that his side can improve on that impressive finish this time round. Leno told the Metro:

    "Same as last season – after 20-25 matches we can change the target and say, "We go for Europe or mid-table or whatever" or for the [Premier League] trophy. No, I'm joking! We prepare just for [the next game] and not what could happen next year in May."

Leno feels Fulham should take confidence from their strong showings against the top sides last year.

    "I think now everyone knows we can compete. We can compete with the big teams, especially at home. When you see [Manchester] United and [Manchester] City, they struggled against us. At the end we lost these games but you saw they were decided by details – in the last minute against United. We know how we can compete against these teams and they also know what they can expect from us so it will be a challenge.

The former Arsenal custodian admits that the transfer window remaining open until the start of September means Fulham's squad is still in a state of flux – but points to his experience as a late arrival to Craven Cottage last season for proof that new signings can make an immediate impact.

    "Every season you have the same problem. Last year, I came in one day before the first game against Liverpool. I had no pre-season because I didn't train much at Arsenal, no friendlies, nothing. I had zero rhythm so I had to adapt as quick as possible but that's our job and that is why we are professionals. The team is very nice to adapt to and the fans make it very easy for players to adapt and get the confidence so I don't worry about it."



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/leno-everyone-knows-we-can-compete/

[WhiteJC]

Another transfer failure! Man Utd to take £30m hit on Eric Bailly & let him leave for free as Fulham & Saudi Arabia emerge as possible options

Manchester United are willing to let defender Eric Bailly to leave the club for free this summer, with Fulham and clubs from Saudi Arabia interested.

    Man Utd signed Bailly for £30m in 2016
    Player's career blighted by injury
    United ready to let him go for nothing

WHAT HAPPENED? Bailly was signed from Villarreal in the summer of 2016 for £30 million ($38m) but his time at Old Trafford has been blighted by injury, with the Ivorian never having been able to cement a regular place in the first team.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: The defender has only played 70 league games for United in six seasons, while he was sent out on loan to Marseille in 2022-23 and now looks destined to be offloaded by Erik ten Hag, even if he has to take a significant hit and not receive a transfer fee.

AND WHAT'S MORE: According to RMC Sport, are willing to come to an agreement to allow Bailly to leave on a free transfer, with Premier League side Fulham, as well as clubs from Turkey and Saudi Arabia, interested in signing him.

WHAT NEXT FOR BAILLY? Despite his injury-hit career, the Ivorian won't be short of offers should United let him go this summer, with the 29-year-old desperate to get his career back on track.



https://www.goal.com/en-gb/news/transfer-failure-man-utd-eric-bailly-free-fulham-saudi-arabia/blt7fc82b2b3c05e276

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Fulham 'consider' £50m Arsenal youngster as 14-goal striker 'waits' for Saudi Arabia 'green light'
Fulham are eyeing up an unwanted Arsenal player to replace Saudi Arabia-bound striker Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to reports.

Mitrovic – who has also been linked with a move to Tottenham – only played 23 minutes in pre-season as he pushes to join Serbia teammate Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and ex-Wolves captain Ruben Neves at Al-Hilal.

The Cottagers reportedly received a derisory €30million (£25.6million) bid from the Saudi Pro League outfit earlier this summer.

Fulham were not entertaining offers in that region after Mitrovic's impressive 2022/23 campaign in which he scored 14 goals in 24 Premier League appearances.

The Serbian international is eager for the payday in the middle east with personal terms already agreed.

It all went a bit quiet in recent weeks but Al-Hilal appear to have reignited their interest with a "new proposal on the table", as per Fabrizio Romano.

A deal now seems imminent. On Wednesday evening, Romano posted on Twitter: "Understand Al Hilal are finalising move to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic!

"Deal now imminent, waiting for final approval as formal bid has been sent Mitrovic agreed terms with Al Hilal in July.

"He's just waiting for Fulham green light to make it happen in the next hours."

Fulham will need to recruit a new striker if Mitrovic departs, even with Raul Jimenez already through the door.

Replacing the former Newcastle United striker's output in front of goal will be a huge task but Marco Silva reportedly believes Arsenal and United States youngster Folarin Balogun is the man to fill that void.

According to the Daily Mail, Silva is 'considering' Balogun, who scored 22 goals on loan at French club Stade Reims last season.

The Gunners want £50m for the 22-year-old and have received enquiries from Inter and AS Monaco in recent weeks, with RB Leipzig also linked at the start of the summer transfer window.

The report does not give much away but it is added that Fulham are also interested in signing Manchester United outcast Eric Bailly and Benfica's 22-year-old central defender Morato.

Balogun is clearly not in Mikel Arteta's plans as the Arsenal manager looks to add funds to his transfer kitty after the big-money signings of Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.

The American striker was not included in the Gunners' squad for their Premier League opener at home to Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

It is quite surprising to see Arteta not give Balogun much of an opportunity after such a successful season with Reims.



https://www.football365.com/news/arsenal-transfers-folarin-balogun-to-fulham-mitrovic-waits-saudi-green-light

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Fulham consider £50m transfer deal for Arsenal ace and ask about Man United misfit
Fulham are reportedly considering a surprise transfer move for Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun, which could be worth as much as £50million.

The USA international impressed on loan at Reims last season, enjoying a prolific campaign in Ligue 1, but he faces plenty of competition for a place in Mikel Arteta's squad, so could be on the move this summer.

According to the latest from the Daily Mail, Fulham are considering spending as much as £50m on Balogun as they look for a replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic up front.

If Arsenal could receive as much as £50m for a backup player who developed in their academy, that would surely be very hard to turn down.

The Mail also claim Fulham have asked Manchester United about Eric Bailly, who has fallen out of favour at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils will surely be keen to offload Bailly after his recent lack of impact, and an underwhelming spell on loan at Marseille last season.



https://www.caughtoffside.com/2023/08/17/arsenal-transfer-news-balogun-to-fulham-for-50m/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham target Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun as Aleksandar Mitrovic replacement

The Cottagers would attempt to drastically reduce their London rivals' £50m asking price for the former Reims loan star

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun is one of Fulham's key targets to replace Aleksandar Mitrovic if the Serbian leaves the club this summer.

Balogun is ready to depart the Emirates Stadium for more regular first-team football and is now seen as a suitable replacement by Fulham manager Marco Silva, who wants another forward despite already signing Raul Jimenez from Wolves in this window.

The United States international is valued at £50million after scoring 21 league goals in 37 matches on loan at French club Reims last season, but Fulham will likely try to reduce that fee significantly.

Mitrovic, meanwhile, remains in the dark over Fulham's response to Al-Hilal's latest £46m offer for his services. The Cottagers have yet to either accept or reject the approach despite receiving it two days ago.

They appear to be assessing their options over a potential replacement, having asked for £50m for Mitrovic earlier in the summer.

The Serbia international is keen to move to Saudi Arabia where he will triple his current £120,000-a-week wages and play alongside Brazilian superstar Neymar in one of the country's biggest teams.

Mitrovic was upset with Fulham for not accepting several bids in July and spent time training alone. He has since been reintroduced into the group and featured from the bench in the 1-0 win away at Everton on the opening day.

The striker was pictured on crutches after the match at Goodison Park but sources close to the player have played down potential injury concerns and described the measure as "precautionary".

Mitrovic scored 14 goals in 24 games in the Premier League last term and 43 in just 44 matches to break the Championship scoring record during Fulham's title-winning season a year earlier.



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/fulham-balogun-arsenal-mitrovic-transfer-news-b1101203.html

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Adama Traore's feelings about Wolves are crystal clear with latest Instagram post
Adama Traore is now a Fulham player, after leaving Wolves at the end of his contract.

The winger departed at the end of June, along with Diego Costa and Joao Moutinho.

Wolves held talks with Traore after his official exit from the club, according to sporting director Matt Hobbs.

But it was always the case that the Spaniard wanted a new challenge.

Many thought Traore would perhaps move back to Spain.

He also reportedly had a lot of interest from Napoli.

But Traore recently signed for Premier League side Fulham, where he will again link up with Raul Jimenez.

Traore may have moved on from Wolves, but the club clearly still holds a special place in his heart given a post he made on Instagram last night.

Adama Traore shares Wolves fan art on Instagram
Last week, Traore made a couple of posts on Instagram about Wolves.

And last night, five days after signing for Fulham, Traore was sharing Wolves-related things on social media.


CR. adamatrd37 © 2023 INSTAGRAM FROM META

The 27-year-old first shared a reel uploaded by the official Premier League Instagram account, which was a montage of his dribbling and incredible running power.

He then shared what appears to be some fan art.

It is a cartoon of a person in tears outside Molineux with a sign saying 'Arm luber for hire'.

On the floor there is an 'Adama oil' box, which references the winger's trademark of applying baby oil for games.

Traore includes the caption 'Always in mi (heart emoji) Wolves fans'.

Adama Traore loves Wolves
He may have left the club, but you can tell Traore is extremely grateful to Wolves and genuinely loves and respects the club.

He's had his reasons for not extending his contract at Molineux.

It is a shame that he didn't stay, but you can also understand him wanting a fresh challenge after five years at the club.

Many Wolves fans will wish him well, but hopefully he doesn't perform so well to a point that it actually hurts his old club.



https://www.molineux.news/news/adama-traores-feelings-about-wolves-are-crystal-clear-with-latest-instagram-post/

[WhiteJC]

Anfield stadium contractors file for administration – after delays at Liverpool and Fulham
The construction company responsible for Liverpool FC's new Anfield Road Stand, The Buckingham Group, has filed a notice to appoint administrators.

The news arrives two days ahead of Liverpool's first home game of the season, which was due to be the first game in front of the Reds' new stand and with a 61,000 capacity.

However, delays on Buckingham's work have meant that the new target date for completion is mid-October, but even that could now be in doubt.

Buckingham have also been responsible for the building of Fulham FC's new Riverside Stand, but that project is now over two years delayed.

It's the work at Craven Cottage that is reported to have led to Buckingham filing for administration, with Fulham updating their supporters this week that the new stand won't be completely ready until 2024/25 season.

Work on the Riverside Stand started in summer 2019 and was due to be complete in 2021, but Fulham were forced to delay the stand's opening twice, before a phased opening that began last season.

This news will be concerning to Liverpool supporters, who have been told that a similar approach will be taken with the new Anfield Road Stand.

A test event was held at Anfield on Tuesday this week in order to attain the safety certification for the Lower Tier, which remains largely the same as before development.

The new Upper Tier, though, will not host supporters vs. Bournemouth on Saturday and Anfield's capacity will be reduced to around 51,000.

Work on Liverpool's Anfield Road Stand began in September 2021, with an aim of completion in time for the new 2023/24 season.

The major concern now will be whether work can continue on the Anfield Road Stand while the company is in administration or if this will lead to further delays.

The company responsible for the cladding of the new stand, subcontractor SD Samuels, filed for administration in December and was understood to be one of the reasons for the delays at Anfield.



https://www.thisisanfield.com/2023/08/anfield-stadium-contractors-file-for-administration-after-delays-at-liverpool-and-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Report shares Fulham stance on Arsenal wanting £50m for Folarin Balogun
Fulham are unlikely to be prepared to pay £50 million for Folarin Balogun as they consider the Arsenal striker as a potential replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

That is according to a report from the Evening Standard, which notes that the Gunners want £50 million for the USMNT international this summer.

Folarin Balogun may well be one player who is on the move in the final couple of weeks in the transfer window. The Evening Standard reports that the 22-year-old wants to leave in search of first-team football.

Fulham unlikely to pay £50m for Balogun
He was 'incredible' during a loan spell with Reims last season. But so far, no-one has been prepared to meet the Gunners' demands for his signature.

But Fulham could soon make a move of their own for the youngster. The Cottagers are currently considering a £46 million bid from Saudi side Al-Hilal for Aleksandar Mitrovic.

And if the Serbia international does get the chance to move to the Kingdom, Marco Silva is interested in signing Balogun as a replacement.

However, the report claims that Fulham will likely want a discount on Arsenal's asking price for the striker.

Much may depend on what kind of role Mikel Arteta sees Balogun having if he stays. If the Arsenal boss believes that he has three or four options ahead of him, it makes little sense to keep him.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have spent a lot of money in the last couple of years. So they will probably want to bring in some funds. And Balogun is one of the available players who could command a substantial fee.

So it may be that it proves to be best for all parties for a compromise to be reached. Perhaps Arsenal should lower the price in the hope of including a buy-back clause.

That will protect them if Balogun goes on to become the striker many clearly think he could be.



https://tbrfootball.com/report-shares-fulham-stance-on-arsenal-wanting-50m-for-folarin-balogun/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham could present offer in 'next few hours' after making contact – Player's replacement already lined up
Fulham have emerged as a new contender to sign Bologna's Riccardo Orsolini, according to Gianluca Di Marzio.

The 26-year-old can operate across the attacking line but was mainly used on the right-wing last season, where he scored 11 goals and registered four assists from 34 games. His displays seem to have attracted interest from Marco Silva's side.

It's claimed the Premier League side have already made contact with the Italian club for the forward.

Di Marzio adds Fulham could table an offer in the 'next few hours' to secure Orsolini's services. He doesn't specify Bologna's demands or the fee the London club could propose for the Italy international.

The attacker's contract expires in 2024 and the current window would be Bologna's last big chance to earn a fee from his sale.

Orsolini could leave in the next few weeks, which is why Bologna have already identified SC Freiburg's Roland Sallai as a candidate to replace him. Di Marzio states they will bet heavily on Sallai if the Italian were to be sold.

More developments could be expected if and when Fulham present an offer for Orsolini.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-present-offer-next-hours-making-contact-players-replacement-already-lined/

[WhiteJC]

Arsenal (A) Sold Out
Tickets for Fulham's trip to Emirates Stadium to take on Arsenal on Saturday 26th August have now sold out. Thank you for your fantastic support!

A limited number of tickets for disabled supporters remain available, to book please contact the ticket office directly on 0203 871 0810.

Should the Club receive any ticket returns, please register your interest below to join our waiting list for this fixture:



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2023/august/17/arsenal-a-sold-out/

[WhiteJC]

From Craven Cottage to Riyadh: Mitrovic's Next Journey?
Fulham's Gem, Mitrovic, Tempted by Al-Hilal's Lure

The Serbian Maestro in Sight
In the heart of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Hilal has trained their gaze upon Fulham's crown jewel, Aleksandar Mitrovic. Their persistence, having been rebuffed with a £25.5m bid just last month, is proving tenacious. Amidst their recent triumphant acquisition of Neymar for a staggering £86.3m, the club's ambition soars, now believing they're on the cusp of adding Mitrovic to their roster suggest reports from The Guardian.

Changing Tunes & Rising Bids
While Fulham initially stood resolute, declaring their 28-year-old talisman wasn't on the market, the scene appears to be changing. Reports suggest that discussions have resumed, and the very walls of Craven Cottage may soon echo with the news of a deal exceeding £40m.

Al-Hilal's Star-Studded Line-Up
One can't help but admire Al-Hilal's recent transfer strategy. With acquisitions like Rúben Neves, Chelsea's Kalidou Koulibaly, Lazio's Sergei Milinkovic-Savic, and Neymar's fellow countryman Malcom (who stunned with a hat-trick against Abha), Mitrovic could be in illustrious company.

The Rise of Mitrovic at Fulham
Arriving at Fulham from Newcastle in July 2018, Mitrovic has been nothing short of phenomenal. Cementing his place at the core of the Fulham squad, he surprised many by warming the bench during the season opener at Everton. Yet, his credentials are undeniable – a lucrative five-year contract signed two years prior and shattering the Championship goalscoring record on Fulham's path to promotion.



https://eplindex.com/94594/from-craven-cottage-to-riyadh-mitrovics-next-journey.html

[WhiteJC]

Fulham step up interest in Arsenal's Folarin Balogun, but the clubs are still £10m apart in their valuations of the striker with the Gunners holding out for £45m

    Fulham are £10million short of Arsenal's valuation of forward Folarin Balogun
    Arsenal are holding out for £45million for the 22-year-old USA international

Fulham have stepped up their interest in Arsenal forward Folarin Balogun but remain £10million short of the north London club's valuation.

The Gunners are holding out for £45million for the USA international, after he enjoyed a successful spell at in France with Stade Reims last season.

Mikel Arteta's side had initially wanted £50million before lowering their price-tag, however the Cottagers are only willing to pay a maximum of £35million. 

Balogun notched 21 goals in 37 Ligue 1 appearances in the 2022-23 season, with only PSG's Kylian Mbappe, Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette and Lille's Jonathan David scoring more.

The 22-year-old made his debut for the US in June having switched international allegiance from England.


Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been closely monitored by Fulham in recent weeks
 

Fulham boss Marco Silva is keen to bolster his attacking options during the summer window

Balogun has been linked with moves to Monaco, Inter Milan and Tottenham throughout the summer but it appears Fulham are currently frontrunners for his signature.

The Cottagers are looking to boost their forward options with rumours persisting that Aleksandar Mitrovic is set for a big-money move to the Saudi Pro League.

Al-Hilal have reportedly revived their interest in the Serbian striker in recent days, tabling a £46million bid for the 28-year-old.

Mitrovic demanded to be allowed to join Al-Hilal earlier in the summer, although he did feature as a substitute in Fulham's 1-0 win at Everton on the opening day of the Premier League season.

Marco Silva is keen to add Everton's Demarai Gray, Chelsea's Callum Hudson-Odoi and Leicester City's Timothy Castagne to his squad with the windfall from Mitrovic's sale.


The 22-year-old enjoyed a succesful spell at Stade Reims in France last season


Rumours persist that Aleksandar Mitrovic is set for a move to the Saudi Pro League

However, Balogun is likely to act as the direct replacement for Fulham's top-scorer from last season.

The striker trained on his own during Arsenal's tour of the US in the summer, and was left out of the matchday squad for their 2-1 win against Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

Mikel Arteta is looking to trim his squad following another summer of heavy investment that has seen Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber arrive at the Emirates Stadium.

Although it is unlikely that a deal will be agreed in time for Balogun to make his Fulham debut at the weekend against Brentford, he could be set for a quick return to Arsenal as Silva's side visit the Emirates on Saturday, August 26.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12416485/Fulham-Arsenals-Folarin-Balogun-10m-apart-striker-Gunners-45m.html

[WhiteJC]

New Arsenal exit opportunity opens up as Fulham prepare crafty swoop for £50m upgrade
Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has now caught the attention of Fulham as a potential replacement for Aleksandar Mitrovic, according to reports.

Mitrovic is a top target for Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, which means Fulham need a new forward, despite already bringing in Raul Jimenez from Wolves this summer. And according to the Daily Mail, Balogun could be their solution.

The USMNT striker is still at Arsenal after returning from a productive loan spell with Reims in France. However, Charles Watts told TEAMtalk this week to still expect a permanent exit for Balogun before the transfer window closes.

There have been various links with Premier League rivals for Balogun, including some in London. It has been suggested that Tottenham might move for him to fill their Harry Kane void, while TEAMtalk understands he is also of interest to West Ham United.

But now, the Daily Mail has claimed Fulham could also offer him a cross-capital switch, which would cost somewhere in the region of £50million.

There are two years remaining on Balogun's contract with Arsenal, but he wants regular first-team football, which he might not get there even after an injury to Gabriel Jesus.

Indeed, the 22-year-old – who has also been the subject of some bids by Monaco – is yet to feature for Arsenal in their first two games this season.

After scoring 22 goals for Reims last season, Balogun will be eager to maintain his momentum. Therefore, an exit is still on the cards if anyone can make a sufficient offer.

Balogun and Fulham could meet each other's needs
At Fulham, Balogun would likely become a focal point up front in the post-Mitrovic era. He would have big boots to fill after the Serbian star's 111 goals for the club, but given the age difference, could become a long-term successor.

Fulham have already signed Jimenez, Adama Traore and Calvin Bassey this summer – and, according to the report, are also interested in Manchester United's Eric Bailly and Benfica's Morato for their defence – while aiming to reinforce a squad that finished in the top half at the first attempt after their promotion from the Championship.

Things seem to be much more stable at Craven Cottage than the last couple of times they came up into the Premier League, but they will need to consolidate their status this season and any new additions should help.

Jimenez and Traore have both added to their attack, but neither are renowned for being prolific these days. Therefore, Balogun might be the most useful signing they could make to replace Mitrovic.

Whether they can succeed where others have failed, in terms of convincing Arsenal to sell, remains to be seen.

They would also have to persuade Balogun to give up participation in European football, but since that wasn't on offer at Reims last season anyway, theoretically it might not be the biggest issue.

Balogun has plenty of years ahead of him to aim for the highest level, but he needs to take steps to get there and Fulham would provide him with a platform of a decent standard to continue his development while earning a long-awaited Premier League breakthrough.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/new-arsenal-exit-opportunity-opens-fulham-prepare-smart-swoop-50m-star

[WhiteJC]

Fulham want to reduce Balogun asking price
Fulham are not prepared to match Arsenal's asking price for American forward Folarin Balogun, according to a report from the Evening Standard this morning.

The Whites are interested in signing the 22 year-old striker, who is keen to leave the Emirates this summer and gain regular first-team football having starred on loan at Stade de Reims last season. The US international striker scored 21 Ligue 1 goals in 37 appearances during his stint in France and Arsenal have slapped a £50m price tag on his head. The Gunners have already rejected one bid for Balogun's services from Monaco, with the French side apparently preparing a new offer.

Fulham are apparently unwilling to pay such a hefty fee for a forward who remains unproven in the Premier League – and whether the Whites are in the market for another striker will depend on Aleksandar Mitrovic's future. The Serbian striker remains a target of Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, but head coach Marco Silva has successfully reintegrated the talimsanic number nine back into his squad after the Londoners rejected two bids earlier this summer.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/08/fulham-want-to-reduce-balogun-asking-price/

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Fulham Star Still Waiting For Cottagers To Decide On Bid For Him
Aleksander Mitrovic is still not aware of Fulham's response to Al Hilal's bid to sign him this summer, according to the Evening Standard.

The Saudi Arabian outfit have been chasing the frontman all summer and the player has made it clear that he wants the move.

The Craven Cottage outfit however do not want to lose their star man and rejected Al Hilal's first two offers.

They made another bid worth £46m for the Serbian in recent days and it was claimed that the Saudi outfit are very close to capturing Mitrovic.

However, Al Hilal submitted their bid two days ago and the 28-year-old is yet to have any clarity about the Premier League club's decision about the offer.

Mitrovic came on as a substitute in Fulham's opening-day league win against Everton on Saturday even though he vowed to never play for the club again.

He has had an agreement with Al Hilal for some time now and made it known that Al Hilal is the only club he wants to play for in recent days.

Now it remains to be seen if the Cottagers will respond to Al Hilal's offer for Mitrovic with the player desperate to leave before the transfer window slams shut.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/08/17/fulham-star-still-waiting-for-cottagers-to-decide-on-bid-for-him/615951/

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'A consideration': £25m Leeds player could now end up signing for Fulham – journalist
Wilfried Gnonto is pushing to leave Leeds.

The Italian attacker is refusing to train at the moment, and he has been the subject of a £25m offer from Everton in recent times.

However, a move to Goodison Park may not be Gnonto's first-choice.

According to Dean Jones, speaking on the Fulhamish Podcast, Gnonto has worries about Everton's chances of staying in the Premier League, and he may prefer a move to a team in a stronger position in the Premier League.

According to Jones, Fulham are considering a move for Gnonto, stating that the forward has been touted around to a few clubs.

Fulham an option for Gnonto
"Fulham haven't gone for Gnonto but I know it's at least a consideration because he's been to touted around to a few clubs. Gnonto has got Everton on the table as his most firm offer and he's looking at that deal very open minded about it, but his fear is that in a year's time he is relegated anyway and he's back in the same situation, so there's that lingering doubt about where Everton are actually heading,' Jones said.
Leeds United v Southampton - Premier League

Unstable
Gnonto wants to go to a team that is guaranteed survival in the Premier League, and as much as we hate to say it, Fulham aren't in that category right now.

The Whites are in a bit of a pickle at the moment. They're seemingly about to lose Aleksandar Mitrovic, and after just three signings so far this summer, they're massively lacking depth.

They have a talented squad, but as we saw with Leicester last season, a good team on paper doesn't guarantee survival.

Gnonto may want to aim slightly higher and head to a team that is almost certain to stay in the Premier League next term.



https://tbrfootball.com/a-consideration-25m-leeds-player-could-now-end-up-signing-for-fulham-journalist/