Friday Fulham Stuff - 01/09/23...

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Fulham: Cottagers working on Sofyan Amrabat move
The Fiorentina midfielder looks like he could leave before the 11pm deadline...

Fulham are now "working on" a deal to sign Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, who is also a major target for another Premier League club...

What's the latest Fulham transfer news?
It appears as though Joao Palhinha could be on his way out of the door before tonight's 11pm deadline, with a verbal agreement over a transfer fee now being reached with Bayern Munich, although the final details and clauses still need to be clarified.

As such, the Cottagers will have to bring in a replacement quickly, and they have opened talks with Tottenham Hotspur over a deal for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who is willing to listen to the proposal put forward, given his lack of game time in north London.

In the same report, it is detailed that several players have been contacted, including Manchester United's Scott McTominay and AS Monaco's Youssouf Fofana, with Marco Silva keen to bring in another central midfielder before the transfer window closes.

Man United rejected an offer of £30m for McTominay earlier in the transfer window, indicating the Scotland international could now cost even more, as we are so close to the deadline, particularly if they are unable to bring in another central midfielder themselves.

In fact, the main player the Red Devils have been keen on is Amrabat, with Football Insider reporting they have recently made a breakthrough in talks with Fiorentina, meaning he has been given the green light to travel to Manchester for his medical.

The Telegraph report that Fiorentina are ready to loan the midfielder to Man United, but only if any deal includes an obligation to buy at the end of the season, with a fee of around €30m (£26m) being discussed.

The 27-year-old has been waiting for United's interest to materialise, indicating he would be keen on a move to Old Trafford, but there could soon be another offer from a Premier League club on the table, with Fulham being named as potential suitors.

In an update from Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio on X, it is detailed the Cottagers are actively "working on" a deal to sign the Moroccan for €30m (£26m), so they could end up hijacking Man United's move.

Is Sofyan Amrabat a CDM?
The Morocco international's main position is defensive midfield, although he is capable of playing slightly further forward, indicating he could be a like-for-like replacement for Palhinha, but the two players have different skill sets.

While Palhinha is exceptional defensively, ranking in the 99th percentile for tackles, and the 90th percentile for aerials won and clearances per 90 over the past year, Amrabat's main strength is his passing, placing in the 99th percentile for his pass completion rate.

The Fiorentina star has been lauded as a "raging bull" by Moroccan journalist Amine El Amri, who also dubbed him "the best midfielder" at the 2022 World Cup, so it is clear that he appears to be a top-quality player. However, while Amrabat would still be a good addition to the squad, it may be worth looking at other players who specialise defensively, and Hojbjerg could be a more viable option.



https://www.footballfancast.com/fulham-premier-league-sofyan-amrabat-transfer-news-rumours-updates/

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Everton gain early deadline day transfer boost after 'agreeing £22m' sale of key midfielder

Everton have agreed to sell one of their most important players, as deadline day starts with a sale.

Everton have agreed a £22m deal to sell Alex Iwobi to Fulham, according to the latest reports.

Iwobi, 27, has been an integral part of Sean Dyche's side but with less than 12 months left on his current deal, and no new deal in sight, Fulham have swooped in.

It was reported yesterday that he was in talks over a potential move and now a fee has been agreed and he is set to complete a medical.

Sky Sports News have reported that a fee around £22m, with add-ons included, has been agreed and a medical will take place later today in London.

Fulham had been for Sevilla winger Lucas Ocampos, but that deal broke down after failing to agree personal terms after agreeing a fee with the Spanish side.

Everton signed Iwobi from Arsenal in 2019 for a fee around £35m and they have negotiated well to recoup most of that fee back considering his current contract situation.

He started every game last season under both Frank Lampard and Dyche and was their leading assist-maker with nine in all competitions last season.

Across four years at the club, he played 140 times, scoring nine times and assisting on 16 occasions and was integral to their back-to-back relegation survivals in recent seasons.

That £22m will be a boost for Everton in the market today as limited funds have been a stumbling block for the club when it has come to getting deals over the line.

With Iwobi on the way out, they will have to target another winger/attacking midfielder to help cover for his loss, as the Nigerian was one of their leading creators.



https://www.liverpoolworld.uk/sport/football/everton/everton-agree-ps22m-sale-of-key-midfielder-to-fulham-4276942

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Manchester City v Fulham

TEAM NEWS
Manchester City await news on whether Manuel Akanji and Phil Foden have recovered from a gastric illness that hampered them both last week.

Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones remain on the sidelines.

Fulham defenders Calvin Bassey and Tim Ream return after suspension, while new signing Timothy Castagne is available to make his debut.

Tom Cairney will be assessed, but Willian and Sasa Lukic are not yet ready to return.

MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head

    A victory for Manchester City would see them tie their own record for the most consecutive wins in English football against an opponent (15), which they currently hold versus Watford.
    Fulham are without a win in 20 matches versus City since a 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium in April 2009.
    The Cottagers have scored only two goals in their last nine games against City, conceding 27.
    City have scored in their last 30 games against Fulham in all competitions dating back to 0-0 draw in March 2004.

Manchester City

    Manchester City are looking to win their opening four matches to a top-flight season for the eighth time, and for the first since 2016-17. However, the only time they have gone on to win the title having done so was in the 2011-12 campaign under Roberto Mancini.
    City have won a club record 17 consecutive home matches in all competitions in 2023 by an aggregate score of 55-7.
    They have won 34 of their last 36 games at the Etihad with the two exceptions coming in back-to-back league games last season: 1-2 versus Brentford and 1-1 against Everton.
    Julian Alvarez has scored 13 goals in 13 home starts for City in all competitions.
    Erling Haaland has netted 35 goals in 27 home appearances for City in all competitions, but he's failed to score in his last four at the Etihad.

Fulham

    Fulham lost all eight of their league games against the teams that finished in the top four last season, but have already drawn 2-2 at Arsenal so far in this campaign.
    Marco Silva's side are unbeaten in their opening two away fixtures of a top-flight season for only the third time, after the 1964-65 and 2010-11 campaigns.
    They have won just three of their 28 top-flight away matches versus the reigning champions.
    The Cottagers are without a win in their last 30 Premier League matches against the two Manchester clubs (D5, L25), dating back to a 3-0 victory over Manchester United in 2009. This is the longest ever winless league run by a team against United and City in Football League history.
    A defeat would see Silva equal the Premier League record for the most matches as a manager against an opponent without winning a single point (nine), currently held by Gary Megson in games versus Liverpool.
    Silva has lost against City with four different teams - Hull, Watford, Everton and Fulham.



https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/66625186

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Report: Tottenham Star Eyed as Fulham's Next Key Signing
Fulham Eyes Tottenham's Hojbjerg in Exciting Transfer Dance

Hojbjerg in Fulham's Radar In a play of strategic transfer moves, Fulham Football Club is courting Tottenham's Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Touted as a potential successor to Joao Palhinha, who's caught the eye of Bayern Munich, Hojbjerg's possible arrival at Craven Cottage is gathering pace.

"Hojbjerg is willing to listen to the Cottagers having not started any of Ange Postecoglou's first three Premier League matches."

While Hojbjerg's exit looms large, Spurs might look towards Chelsea's Conor Gallagher to replenish their midfield strength. The dynamism of this transfer market cannot be understated, with the clock ticking away.

Pressure Mounts as Transfer Window Closes But there's more drama on the horizon. Atletico Madrid, with bated breath, hopes Tottenham moderates their expectations. The La Liga giants are keen to jump into the Hojbjerg fray before the transfer curtains are drawn at 11 pm on Friday.

Fulham's Transfer Game Plan Underneath the tip of this iceberg is Fulham's outright rejection of a £47 million advance from Bayern for their star, Palhinha. The London club remains firm, valuing him at a cool £60 million.

"Palhinha is keen to leave Craven Cottage and has already agreed personal terms with Thomas Tuchel's German champions."

As reported by the Evening Standard, this transaction could see Fulham re-investing in a gamut of talent, even as they hold negotiations for Everton's Alex Iwobi, amidst a rejected bid for Harrison Reed from Wolves.



https://eplindex.com/95781/report-tottenham-star-eyed-as-fulhams-next-key-signing.html

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Everton agree £22m sale of outstanding midfielder in shock departure to Premier League rival
Fulham are close to finalising a reported £22million deal with Everton for Alex Iwobi as the summer transfer deadline approaches.

The Evening Standard report that the former Arsenal winger is expected to seal a surprise return to London despite arguably being Sean Dyche's best player as the Toffees fought relegation last season.

Cottagers boss Marco Silva wants to add more quality to his squad, despite already bringing in the likes of Raul Jimenez, Adama Traore, Calvin Bassey, Timothy Castagne and goalkeeper Steven Benda.

Iwobi could also join Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg at Craven Cottage, with the Tottenham midfielder also said to be in talks over a move across London.

The Dane would be a straight replacement for Joao Palhinha, who appears to be closing in on a move to Bayern Munich.

As for Iwobi, the 27-year-old returns to the capital after four years away, having previously graduated through Arsenal's academy.

Iwobi versatility a big plus for Silva
The Nigerian international played against Fulham in the Toffees' opening-day defeat at Goodison Park, and has made two appearances so far this season.

His versatility is also a major asset, with Iwobi able to play on either wing or in central midfield, as he showed to great success last term.

The midfielder scored nine goals in 140 appearances for the Goodison Park outfit but now appears destined to move to The Cottage.



https://www.teamtalk.com/news/everton-agree-22m-sale-outstanding-midfielder-shock-departure-premier-league-rival

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'Medical completed': Crystal Palace and Fulham linked player to leave Chelsea after refusing pay cut

Callum Hudson-Odoi is expected to be announced as a Nottingham Forest player in the coming hours after completing his medical.

Callum Hudson-Odoi has undergone his medical at Nottingham Forest as he brings to an end his more than 10-year stay at Chelsea to an end.

Fulham had been leading the race to sign the English forward with Crystal Palace also interesting him, but it is the pull of manager Steve Cooper that has helped get the move across the line for the Chelsea forward.

Forest have secured the deal despite interest from Fulham in Hudson-Odoi, who spent last season on loan at Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old will provide another attacking option for manager Steve Cooper.

Chelsea have confirmed the signing of Cole Palmer from Manchester City and have made Conor Gallagher available for sale if the £50million price tag is met by either Spurs or any of the teams interested in him.

Hudson-Odoi spent last season out on loan at Leverkusen and had wanted to be given a chance to impress the new manager but issues of his £120k-a-week wages meant he was always looking to be sold alongside the likes of Hakim Ziyech and Romelu Lukaku.

The sale of HudsonOdoi will be a double boost for Chelsea owners who are now looking to raise some funds after spending almost £1billion on players since they took over the club a little over a year ago.

Elsewhere Chelsea would hope that their investment in the transfer window will continue to show dividends on the field when they host Nottingham Forest in the Premier League this weekend.

They have won their last two games and will hope to win three games on the spin for the first time in six months when Steve Cooper's team come to Stamford Bridge.



https://www.londonworld.com/sport/football/chelsea/crystal-palace-and-fulham-linked-player-to-leave-chelsea-after-refusing-pay-cut-4276983

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Sources: Fulham and Nottingham Forest make moves to sign Man United star Eric Bailly
Fulham and Nottingham Forest have now turned their attention to beat-the-deadline moves for out-of-favour Man United defender Eric Bailly, sources have told Football Insider.

United are looking to offload Bailly to balance the books as he does not figure in Erik ten Hag's plans going forward at Old Trafford.

Fulham and Forest have registered their interest in deals for the 29-year-old.

Bailly is under contract until the end of this season after signing a new deal in April 2021.

He has made 113 appearances in his seven years at Old Trafford after he joined from Villarreal in 2016.

The Ivorian has struggled with various injuries in that time, including a knee injury that sidelined him for 32 matches in 2018-19.

Bailly spent last season on loan at Marseille, where he made 17 appearances in Ligue 1 and five appearances in the Champions League.

Prior to that spell, hee played only seven times in total during the 2021-22 season, including just three Premier League starts.

That was despite the fact that United had their worst-ever top-flight season in terms of goals conceded, letting in 57 in total.

A move to either Forest or Fulham will see the defender make his first appearance in the Premier League since 2022, after spending the previous campaign in France.

Man United are ready to sell Bailly despite injuries to Raphael Varane and Luke Shaw in recent weeks.



https://www.footballinsider247.com/sources-fulham-and-nottingham-forest-make-moves-to-sign-man-united-star-eric-bailly/

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Tottenham Star Not Convinced About Move, Feels He Should Be Playing For Bigger Club
Fulham are finding it hard to convince Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to consider a move to Craven Cottage on deadline day, according to the Evening Standard.

The Cottagers have already given permission to Joao Palhinha to travel to Germany to complete his £60m move to Bayern Munich.

Fulham are now working to bring in the Portuguese midfielder's replacement and Hojbjerg is their top target.

Tottenham are open to letting him go and Fulham are expected to work out an agreement with Spurs for the Dane on deadline day.

However, it has been claimed that Fulham have major work to do to convince the player to accept the move.

The west London club are currently struggling to convince the player that a move to Craven Cottage is the right one for him.

The 28-year-old midfielder is not warming up to the idea of joining Fulham in the final hours of the transfer window.

He is of the opinion that he is good enough to start for some of the biggest clubs in Europe still.

Atletico Madrid are amongst the clubs who are interested in him but are yet to make a concrete offer for him.



https://insidefutbol.com/2023/09/01/tottenham-star-not-convinced-about-move-feels-he-should-be-playing-for-bigger-club/618935/

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Player's exit from Fulham getting closer as he arrives for medical – Agreement in place with Silva's side
Earlier on Friday, we covered claims from Germany that Bayern Munich and Fulham have reached a total agreement of €65m plus bonuses for João Palhinha's transfer

It was also said the midfielder was on his way to Munich to carry out the transfer formalities but the deal wasn't done since Marco Silva's side have to bring in a replacement for him first.

Fulham are yet to announce his successor but the 28-year-old has already landed in Germany, according to Sky Deutschland Torben Hoffmann.

He tweeted a video of Portugal international arriving at Barmherzigen Brüder's hospital in Munich to carry out the medical tests with the Bundesliga winners. This is a clear indication the player's move to the Allianz Arena is edging closer.

Palhinha joined Fulham from Sporting last summer and was an integral part of Silva's squad, making 40 appearances in all competitions, managing four goals in the process. He has a goal from three games this season.

The window closes at 11pm today and Fulham have a few hours left to sign Palhinha's replacement.

Ankunft #Palhinha am Krankenhaus der Barmherzigen Brüder. Medical. @SkySportDE @SkySportsNews pic.twitter.com/KyypFse3iL

— Torben Hoffmann (@Sky_Torben) September 1, 2023

http://sportwitness.co.uk/players-exit-from-fulham-getting-closer-as-he-arrives-for-medical-agreement-in-place-with-silvas-side/

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Alex Iwobi arrives at Fulham training ground to seal £22m Everton exit
Alex Iwobi has arrived at Fulham's training ground to undergo a medical and complete a £22m move away from Everton, report Sky Sports.

Writing in their live transfer blog (1 September, 12:08), the Nigeria international has arrived in London to put the finishing touches on his move away from Goodison Park.

Iwobi was into the final year of his deal on Merseyside and wasn't keen on renewing, making an exit inevitable before the 11pm deadline.

"Alex Iwobi has arrived at Fulham's training ground to continue his medical ahead of his transfer from Everton," they wrote.

"The midfielder is set to move to the west London side for £22m."

Sensible
Alex Iwobi will always be a popular figure on the blue side of Merseyside and his performances in recent years during a tough period for the club won't be quickly forgotten.

But football is a business and with his contract running down, managing to get £22m for him is fantastic business by the club and should be applauded.

He did a fantastic job playing in central midfield to help us avoid relegation under Frank Lampard, and then did a stellar job out wide under Sean Dyche.

Now though, entering his prime years, it's no shock he wants to avoid relegation battles and with Fulham's manager Marco Silva being the man that brought him to Everton in the first place it makes sense.

It's a deal that suits everyone and he goes with the best wishes of the fans. Now let's hope we can replace him before the deadline passes at 11pm.



https://www.goodisonnews.com/2023/09/01/alex-iwobi-arrives-at-fulham-training-ground-to-seal-22m-everton-exit/

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Man City XI vs Fulham: Nunes and Doku debut, predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury latest

Manchester City could give debuts to Matheus Nunes and Jeremy Doku in Saturday's visit of Fulham.

Nunes joined on deadline day from Wolves, in a deal worth £53million, while Doku was an unused substitute for the narrow win over Sheffield United last time out.

Kevin De Bruyne and John Stones are still missing for the Premier League champions, Manuel Akanji should be available again after missing the win at Bramall Lane through illness.

Phil Foden started that game on the bench due to an illness of his own, but came on and has now recovered. He is expected to start with one of Bernardo Silva or Jack Grealish making way.

Newly crowned PFA Player of the Year Erling Haaland scored both home and away against Fulham last season and you would not bet against him adding to that tally this weekend.

Manchester City predicted XI: Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, Alvarez, Doku; Haaland

Injured: De Bruyne, Stones

Doubt: Akanji

Time and date: 3pm BST, Saturday, September 2, 2023

Venue: Etihad Stadium



https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/man-city-xi-vs-fulham-nunes-doku-debut-predicted-lineup-confirmed-team-news-injury-latest-2023-premier-league-b1104248.html

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Fulham 'approach Man United over Scott McTominay' as Joao Palhinha 'waits for green light for £55m Bayern Munich move'

    Fulham have made an enquiry over Man United's Scott McTominay, state reports
    The Cottagers 'are looking for a replacement for Bayern-bound Joao Palhinha'

Fulham have made an enquiry to Manchester United about the availability of midfielder Scott McTominay on transfer deadline day, according to reports.

The Cottagers are hunting for reinforcements in the middle of the park after reportedly agreeing to sell Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich.

The Palhinha transfer will supposedly only go through if Fulham can find a suitable replacement, leading to their interest in McTominay.

The United academy graduate has made two substitute appearances for United so far this season, but could be allowed to leave to make room for the Fiorentina's Sofyan Amrabat.

Sky Sports have claimed that the Scottish international is one of several options being considered by Fulham, along with Tottenham's Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, ahead of the transfer window closing on Friday.


Fulham have made an enquiry to Manchester United about the availability of midfielder Scott McTominay on transfer deadline day, according to reports
 

The Cottagers are hunting for reinforcements in the middle of the park after reportedly agreeing to sell Joao Palhinha to Bayern Munich
 

Manager Marco Silva was non-committal when asked if he expected to be able to call upon Palhinha for Saturday's Premier League game against Manchester City

Marco Silva was non-committal when asked if he expected to be able to call upon Palhinha for Saturday's Premier League game against Manchester City.

He said: 'There has been interest from other clubs in Joao. I will not make any comments about the situation as there is nothing new to say.

'But of course, it's the business part of the club. The people who are taking care of that are doing their job. Probably it's the first time this club is receiving so many offers, and big offers for some players.'

Fulham have already lost Aleksandar Mitrovic after last season's top-scorer completed a £46million move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal in August.

The west London club completed the signing of Leicester City defender Timothy Castagne on Tuesday, with goalkeeper Steven Benda arriving from Swansea City two days later.

Silva is confident that more reinforcements will arrive before the 11pm deadline on Friday. He added : 'It doesn't make sense for us to lose a player like Joao, but of course we should have a replacement to come and help us.

'We are talking about so many details, the timing, all that stuff – there are many things involved. I am doing my job and that is to put names forward and give solutions if any player is sold from our squad.'

Having secured a 2-2 draw at Arsenal last weekend courtesy of a late Palhinha equaliser before knocking Tottenham out of the Carabao Cup on penalties in midweek, Fulham are back in Premier League action on Saturday against Manchester City.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12470127/Fulham-approach-Man-United-Scott-McTominay.html

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Player does not want to join Tottenham Hotspur today
Fulham central defender Tosin Adarabioyo reportedly does not want to move to Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham Hotspur on the final day of the summer transfer window.

According to 90min, Tottenham Hotspur hold an interest in signing Tosin Adarabioyo from London and Premier League rivals Fulham.

The report has claimed that Adarabioyo "remains a target for Spurs", but "little progress" has been made on that front.

Tottenham have offered Eric Dier to Fulham in a deal to bring Adarabioyo to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The problem for Spurs is that Adarabioyo does not fancy a move to the North London club.

According to 90min, the 25-year-old English central defender is "pushing to join Monaco instead".

Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham to Tottenham Hotspur unlikely to happen now
We do not think that Tottenham Hotspur will be able to sign Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham today.

If the defender himself does not want to move to Spurs, then there is no point in the North London club trying to change his mind so late in the window.

Tottenham would be better off trying to find another centre-back.

Adarabioyo has made 59 appearances in the Premier League so far in his career.

The defender has scored one goal and kept 12 clean sheets in those games.

Tottenham are aiming to finish in the top four of the Premier League table this season.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/09/01/player-does-not-want-to-join-tottenham-hotspur-today/

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Premier League trio seek deadline day deal for former Liverpool hero as Vincent Kompany's Burnley battle Fulham and Nottingham Forest for late signing of former Reds striker Divock Origi

    Former Liverpool star Origi could return to the Premier League this summer
    The Belgian has struggled during his time at AC Milan and could be on the move
    Burnley, Fulham and Nottingham Forest are all keen on a late deal for Origi

Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Fulham are looking at a late deal for AC Milan's Divock Origi.

The former Liverpool striker could return to the Premier League after a fairly unsuccessful spell in Serie A.

He has struggled for game time after picking up a succession of injuries.

AC Milan have been in the market for a striker this transfer window and have been heavily linked with a move for Porto's  Mehdi Taremi.

Therefore, Origi could be allowed to depart as Premier League trio Burnley, Nottingham Forest and Fulham are seeking a late deal.


Burnley, Norringham Forest and Fulham are looking at a late deal for AC Milan's Divock Origi
 

The forward has struggled since his move to AC Milan from Liverpool on a free transfer
 

Vincent Kompany's Burnley could snatch a late deal for the Belgian forward on deadline day


Fulham saw star striker Aleksandar Mitrovic depart the club as the forward joined Al-Hilal in Saudia Arabia early this summer.

While Raul Jimenez arrived at Craven Cottage from Wolves, Marco Silva's side could still add another striker with Origi.

Burnley may hold an advantage with Belgian legend Vincent Kompany at the helm at Turf Moor.

Origi and Kompany are former teammates at the national team and could link up once more as Burnley look to reinforce their attacking options.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12470243/Premier-League-transfer-Divock-Origi-Liverpool-AC-Milan-Burnley-Fulham-Nottingham-Forest.html

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Palhinha having Bayern medical
Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha has arrived in Munich to prepare for a medical ahead of his proposed move to Bayern Munich, but the deal remains contingent on the Whites signing a replacement for the Portuguese international before the German transfer window closes at 5pm.

Various reports in Germany cite the fee for Palhinha, who has been pivotal to Fulham's progress under Marco Silva since signing from Sporting last summer, at between £60m and £65m. But the deal, which would be a club record sale hot on the heels of the departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic earlier this month, could still be scuppered by the lack of available replacements. The Evening Standard reports that Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Højbjerg is not keen on a move to Craven Cottage and a move for Manchester United-bound Sofyan Amrabat has also floundered. Alex Iwobi, currently at Motspur Park is not a replacement for the man who has made the most Premier League tackles both last term and this one.

Palhinha, who scored the late equaliser that earned ten-man Fulham a point at Arsenal on Saturday and converted a penalty in the shoot-out that saw Silva's side eliminate Spurs from the League Cup three days ago, has made 43 appearances for the Whites and scored five goals.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/09/palhinha-having-bayern-medical/

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Report: £8m Chelsea Ace Pictured At Forest Training Ground
Hudson-Odoi Opts For Nottingham Forest Over Fulham

Hudson-Odoi's Transfer Tango
Chelsea's young starlet, Callum Hudson-Odoi, is currently amidst a transfer tussle, one that's reminiscent of a dance between the clubs of west London. Though Nottingham Forest appeared close to securing the young winger's signature, Fulham have now re-joined the fray, marking an intriguing twist in this ongoing transfer saga. As reported by the Evening Standard, the Cottagers had previously halted talks due to Chelsea's lofty £8million valuation but have since returned, cash at the ready.

🚨| Callum Hudson-Odoi pictured at the Nottingham Forest training ground ahead of his move from Chelsea. 📸 #DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/5Ssf6SsoTs

— Football Daily (@footballdaily) September 1, 2023

The Dilemma: Home or History?
Choosing his next club won't be a walk in the park for Hudson-Odoi. Sure, he's already settled on personal terms with Fulham, seemingly making Craven Cottage his next footballing home. But the allure of Nottingham Forest cannot be understated, particularly with the presence of Steve Cooper, the prodigy's former England youth coach.

Perhaps adding some spice to the mix, it's worth noting that Fulham has had a recent transfer success against Forest, having trumped them to bring back Willian earlier in the year.

At Chelsea: Out of Favour
Despite being nurtured at Stamford Bridge, Hudson-Odoi has found himself practising with the Under-21s recently. It's a sign that, at least for the moment, he's not part of the primary setup at Chelsea.

Fulham's Transfer Carousel
Callum isn't the only name swirling in the transfer winds surrounding Fulham. They're deep in conversation with Everton about a £20m transfer for Alex Iwobi. Should this former Arsenal maestro arrive at the Cottage, it might see Harrison Reed making his way to Wolves, with the latter's terms under discussion.

Furthermore, Fulham's gaffer, Marco Silva, is on the lookout for more additions. He has a spot to fill up front, following Aleksandar Mitrovic's departure. Though there was hope in securing Sevilla's Lucas Ocampos, that ship sailed after the player's decision not to put pen to paper, despite a £15m fee agreement between the clubs.

Finally, the hunt is on for a new full-back. Despite securing Leicester's Timothy Castagne, other names on the radar include AC Milan's Fode Ballo-Toure, Union Berlin's Josip Juranovic, and Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters.



https://eplindex.com/95789/report-8m-chelsea-ace-pictured-at-forest-training-ground.html#google_vignette

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Juanma Lillo gives updates on four Man City players for Fulham

Manchester City assistant Juanma Lillo spoke to the media ahead of the club's game with Fulham in the Premier League

Manchester City will be boosted by the availability of Phil Foden and Manu Akanji against Fulham.

Akanji missed the game with Sheffield United with a minor issue while Foden was on the bench after an illness. He came on to play the final few minutes, and ended up with an assist where Rodri pounced on a loose ball in the box to smash home the winner.

Speaking in place of Pep Guardiola, who is still recovering from back surgery in Barcelona, assistant Juanma Lillo confirmed that the pair are both over their issues and are fit to take on Fulham at the weekend. Lillo also confirmed that John Stones is almost ready to play, despite being left out of the latest England squad for their upcoming games in September.

"Right now, Phil is completely recovered from his illness. Manu's problem was more prevention," he said. "He's more or less there. John is more or less there as well. We're okay, we're fine."

Lillo could not confirm whether or not new signing Matheus Nunes will be available for Saturday's game with Fulham, having completed his £53m move from Wolves on Friday. The fact that he had not trained with the squad would suggest that he will not be in the starting lineup even if he makes the squad, particularly given he stayed away from Wolves training earlier this week as well in a bid to force through his move.



https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/man-city-fulham-lillo-foden-27634933

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Report: Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has rejected deadline day transfer away from Spurs
Despite strong interest from Fulham, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is not believed to be keen on moving to the Premier League side as he feels he is good enough to be a 'regular starter' at one of the bigger clubs across Europe.

Hojbjerg has been a key player for Tottenham Hotspur over the last couple of years. The Danish international was an influential figure under both Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte, but has now fallen down the pecking order since Ange Postecoglou's arrival at the club.

Over the course of the summer, Hojbjerg has been linked with Atletico Madrid primarily (Daily Mail). More recently, the 28-year-old was a surprise target for Manchester United, who are desperate to bolster their midfield (Telegraph).

Now, it seems Fulham have firmly entered the race to sign the combative midfielder (Daily Mail). The Cottagers are thought to have submitted a £30m bid for Hojbjerg today (Football Insider).

Hojbjerg isn't sold on the idea of moving to Fulham
Fulham are about to lose their star midfielder, Joao Palhinha, to Bayern Munich and have identified Hojbjerg as the ideal replacement. However, it looks like the Spurs man is not too excited about the prospect of being transferred to the Premier League side.

That's according to the latest from the Evening Standard, who claim Fulham would "face a battle" to persuade Hojbjerg to join them. Apparently, the player believes he is capable of being a "regular starter" at a top club and the idea of being Palhinha's replacement doesn't carry "huge appeal" for Hojbjerg.

As part of the developing situation, it appears Hojbjerg has indeed turned down the offer from Fulham (Daily Mail). It is now said that his reluctance to leave could affect Spurs and their own pursuits of a new midfielder, with Conor Gallagher thought to be in the cross-hairs.

Spurs Web Opinion
You can't really blame Hojbjerg for not wanting to join Fulham. They are a mid-table Premier League club and he is definitely better than that. I'd be more than happy if he stays at Spurs, as he has done a good job when coming off the bench so far this season.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-pierre-emile-hojbjerg-has-rejected-deadline-day-transfer-away-from-spurs/

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Fulham now want to keep £30k-a-week midfielder at Craven Cottage
Fulham could be set to lose another option in midfield on Deadline Day at Craven Cottage.

Fulham midfielder Harrison Reed has been the subject of Premier League interest at Craven Cottage, as talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook provides a reason as to why he could leave the club on Deadline Day.

Marco Silva is already set to lose a key midfielder before the window's closure at 11 pm tonight, and the Cottagers will want to avoid selling another.

Fulham transfer news – Harrison Reed
On Thursday afternoon, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano revealed that Fulham had turned down a £4m offer from Wolverhampton Wanderers to sell Reed. However, the Black Country outfit could bid again for the 28-year-old midfielder. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has today told GIVEMESPORT that "there is a deal to be done" for Reed to move to Molineux, which will worry the Fulham faithful heading into the window's remaining hours. Meanwhile, The Independent have claimed that Everton want to hijack Wolves' move for the £30,000 per-week earner in the late stages of the transfer window as the Blues look to bolster their midfield following the departure of Alex Iwobi, who goes the other way.

Silva would be frustrated to lose Reed, with Joao Palhinha on the verge of a move to Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, with the Portugal international undergoing a medical for the German champions. And with his midfield partner in crime Reed teetering on the brink of a departure from Craven Cottage today, the west London outfit will be frustrated at losing a duo who helped play a part in the side's top-half finish last season.

What has Crook said about Fulham and Reed?
Crook has revealed that Harrison has been left frustrated at not being offered a new contract, having been promised fresh terms by the club.

The talkSPORT reporter told GIVEMESPORT: "I'm not sure that Fulham, particularly with Palhinha going, will be keen to lose Reed. However, my understanding is that he's been promised a new contract for a while, and it hasn't happened, so he's getting a little bit frustrated."

What next for Fulham on Deadline Day?
Following the signing of Iwobi, Fulham must delve further into the market to replace Reed should the experienced midfielder leave the club today. Transfer insider Dean Jones has namedropped Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana and Leicester City's Wilfred Ndidi have been on the Cottagers' radar in recent weeks, in an interview with GIVEMESPORT this week. Silva will hope his side is in good shape to face Premier League champions Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow afternoon, less than 24 hours after the window's closure this evening.



https://www.givemesport.com/fulham-harrison-reed-transfer-news-contract/

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Man City to welcome back club great ahead of Fulham clash along with pre-match Brazilian celebrations

Manchester City are planning 'O dia da Bahia' celebrations ahead of Saturday's Premier League match at the Etihad.

Manchester City are set to welcome fan favourite Elano to the Etihad this weekend ahead of the club's clash against Fulham.

The ex-Brazilian midfielder, who made 80 appearances for City across two seasons at the club, will be back for the Blues' 'O dia da Bahia' celebrations. The festivities are in recognition of City's new sister club Bahia, who play in Brazil's top tier. City Football Group purchased a 90 percent stake in the club in May.

As part of Saturday's celebrations there will be music from Carlinhos Brown, one of the club's most prominent fans in Brazil. A Dama and O Maestro and Corridor of Timbaleiros will also be playing before the game, while tokens of Bahian culture, including the famous Lord of Bonfim ribbons will be handed out to fans.

Via their website, City said: "Bringing together football and music, the festivities will celebrate Bahia's unique identity and welcome the newest club into the City Football Group family. Other Bahian traditions will be on display at the stadium including a capoeira presentation and the Bahia mascots who will join City's mascots Moonchester and Moonbeam."

As for Elano, he will be pitchside before the clash with Fulham and will be interviewed by club media.

A win for City over Fulham would see Pep Guardiola's side continue their 100 percent start to the season, following wins over Burnley, Newcastle United and Sheffield United. Summer signings Jeremy Doku and Matheus Nunes could also make their debuts for the club. As for Fulham, they have picked up four points from the opening three matches of the campaign.



https://www.manchesterworld.uk/sport/football/manchester-city/man-city-elano-brazilian-celebrations-bahia-fulham-4277369