Thursday Fulham Stuff - 28/12/23...

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Results

Wednesday 27/12
Brentford	1-4	Wolves
Chelsea	2-1	Palace
Everton	1-3	Man City

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'Up for the move to Spurs' - Alasdair Gold claims defender would be keen on switch
Alasdair Gold has claimed that Fulham centre-back Tosin Adarabioyo would be prepared to join Tottenham Hotspur next month if both clubs can agree on a deal.

It has been widely reported over the last couple of weeks that Adarabioyo is one of a number centre-back options on Spurs' radar with the North Londoners looking to bolster their backline following the hamstring injury sustained by Micky van de Ven (The Athletic).

Over the last few days, multiple outlets have suggested that the 26-year-old, who is out of contract next summer, has declined a new deal offered by the Cottagers and is expected to once again attract interest from the likes of Tottenham and Monaco (90 min).

However, Football Insider reported on Sunday that Marco Silva's side does not want to sell the defender next month despite the fact he has declined a new deal since he is considered too important a player for Fulham to allow to head of the door halfway through the campaign.

Adarabioyo open to Tottenham switch
Gold has now stated that Adarabioyo is willing to move across London to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium if a deal can be struck, however, the journalist pointed out that it would be in the centre-back's best financial interests to leave on a free transfer next summer.

He said on Gold and Guest Talk Tottenham Podcast: "We've spoken about Tosin Adarabioyo at Fulham, Spurs have certainly retained an interest there.

"He's an interesting one, like Eric Dier he's available in the summer, I understand that if all parties were able to agree on a deal he would be up for the move to Spurs, but financially it probably wouldn't benefit him as much."

Spurs Web Opinion
I would expect Spurs to test the waters with an offer for Adarbioyo to see if Fulham are willing to talk, given the player's contract situation. However, the 26-year-old will be aware that he will have a lot more options to choose from next summer if he runs his contract down and pocket a healthy signing-on fee at his next club.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/up-for-the-move-to-spurs-alasdair-gold-claims-defender-would-be-keen-on-switch/

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Is the Bayern Munich and João Palhinha transfer saga finally over?
During the summer, Bayern Munich found themselves caught in the middle of multiple transfer sagas. With the signing of Harry Kane as well as their unknown goalkeeping situation, Der Rekordmeister could not stay out of the headlines for longer than a day.

However, there was one saga that failed to diminish after the transfer window came to a close, and that was their desire to sign a number six, and more specifically, Fulham's João Palhinha. Nevertheless, after almost signing for the Bavarian giants, to then agreeing a new contract with Fulham before being linked back to Bayern, it appears that the Portuguese international is set to remain in London.

As reported by Bild, while Thomas Tuchel would ideally like to sign a number six in January, the record champions are prioritising further defensive reinforcement. Due to a number of injuries suffered to Bayern's backline, the club are looking to recruit a player who can cover across the entire defence and even in midfield if required.

With Palhinha being more of a midfield specialist, he is not considered a necessity this winter. As well as this, Raphaël Guerreiro's return to the squad from injury has seen him become an important figure in Tuchel's midfield, while the young Aleksandar Pavlović has impressed in recent weeks and looks set to establish himself in Bayern's senior squad.

Therefore, it is expected that Der Rekordmeister will look elsewhere for signings this January. However, if the record champions were to return for Palhinha, they would want to spend significantly less than the €65 million they offered on deadline day.




https://www.getfootballnewsgermany.com/2023/is-the-bayern-munich-and-joao-palhinha-transfer-saga-finally-over/?expand_article=1

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AFC Bournemouth 3-0 Fulham: Player ratings
Bernd Leno: Hot on the heels of an afternoon where he might have been disappointed with both Burnley goals, this was comfortably the worst performance of Bernd Leno's Fulham career. He looked uncharacteristically uncertain under the high ball early on, having to be bailed out by Tosin Adarabioyo from a Bournemouth corner, and certainly should have done better with Justin Kluivert's shot that squirmed through his legs. The German had little chance with the other two goals – but his frustration was evident in an unedifying clash with a ball boy that may yet bring further sanction. 4

Kenny Tete: We've been waiting for the Dutch international to get another chance in the first team after how ably Timothy Castagne has deputised for him at right back but this was a forgettable day for the usually consistent full back. He was posed problems by the fluidity of Bournemouth's movement from the outset and their pace on the counter attack left him well out of position when Kluivert gave the hosts the lead just before the break. When he did get forward, his decision making and crossing was nowhere near the usual standard and it was no surprise that Castagne replaced him well before the end. 5

Tosin Adarabioyo: In amongst some lethargic performances, Tosin did his best to prevent our Boxing Day being a complete write-off. His reading of the danger meant that Fulham were not a goal down long before they could have been. As well as the header beneath his own crossbar referred to above, the apparently wantaway centre-back blocked shots from Dominic Solanke and Kluivert to maintain parity and kept battling to the end. 6

Calvin Bassey: Some of Bassey's positioning was questionable, but he was less culpable for the sloppiness that undermined the Whites than his team-mates. Made two decisive interventions to ensure Bournemouth didn't pile on even more misery: one terrific tackle prevented the dangerous Antoine Semenyo from streaking clear and he produced an important challenge to deny Dominic Solanke after the prolific strike had already made it 2-0 from the penalty spot. 6

Antonee Robinson: It was one of those days where nothing really came off for Robinson but you couldn't fault his effort. He raced up and down the left flank throughout the afternoon and tried pretty much everything, including an audacious effort from at least 35 yards when the hosts had half cleared a corner. On the occasions when he did get into the final third, Fulham invariably only had a single white shirt to hit – which is symbolic of a bigger problem. 6

Joao Palhinha: People leaving the ground in front of me suggested that this display was indicative of the fact that Palhinha's mind might already be on a big-money move in January. I don't subscribe to that theory but this was certainly a tamer version of the Portuguese than we have been fortunate enough to see during his Craven Cottage career. He allowed Alex Scott to sprint through the middle of the park with uncharacteristic ease to make the first goal and his clumsy tangle with Semenyo ruined any chance the Whites had of getting back into the contest. 4

Tom Cairney: The captain looks like a little less effective of late than he did upon his return to the team. There could be many causes of that: a) tiredness due to a hectic December schedule, b) opposition planning to nullify his creativity, c) a lack of fluidity in Fulham's football. A player with Cairney's eye for a pass and ability to hurt opposition defences shouldn't be doing most of his work in our own half, but that's what happened yesterday. 5

Bobby De Cordova-Reid: A pretty poor showing from somebody who has often sacrificed himself for the team. De Cordova-Reid had a couple of good openings along the right flank in the first 20 minutes with the score at 0-0 but chose the wrong option both times and, unusually, offered little in the way of protection for an off-colour Tete. He was fortunate to remain on the field after the interval with Fulham needing to chase the game and coughed up possession before Bournemouth won their penalty. 4

Alex Iwobi: Marco Silva must revisit playing the Nigerian international on the left, especially when De Cordova-Reid has filled that role effectively in the past. Shoehorning Iwobi into the side on a wing where he looks so uncomfortable ends up being detrimental to the team as a whole. He worked hard, dovetailing well with Robinson on occasions, but couldn't impose himself on proceedings or deliver a telling final ball. 5

Andreas Pereira: The Fulham head coach is also persevering with Pereira when the Brazilian is manifestly out of form. His early corners posed some problems for the Bournemouth defence, but he offered little in the way of creativity from open play. The attacking midfielder shouldn't escape censure for the way he allowed Alex Scott to waltz away from him at the start of his match-altering run towards the end of the first half, either. 5

Rodrigo Muniz: The Brazilian isn't the answer to Fulham's striking problem and this was the second game where he struggled to impose himself on a well-drilled defence. He produced a brilliant piece of control in the Bournemouth penalty area as early as the second minute but was unable to follow up on it. Worked hard for the remainder of the afternoon without anything in the way of frequent service. 5

Substitutes:

Timothy Castagne: Got forward to greater effect than Tete but produced poor crosses before allowing substitute Luis Sinisterra to cut inside towards goal for the Bournemouth third in stoppage time. 5

Harry Wilson: The Welsh winger deserves some credit for putting himself about having been brought on at a time when the game appeared well beyond Fulham. Ventured off his wing in search of possession and was one of the few Fulham players alert to the danger posed by Sinisterra late on – even if he couldn't stop it. 6

Sasa Lukic: A shocking cameo from the Serbian that included a horribly misplaced switch of play that located the dug out rather than Timothy Castagne and a lack of urgency at closing down Sinisterra. Might be waiting a while for another opportunity. 5

Carlos Vinicius: Hard to judge Vinicius on the less than a quarter of hour that he got but the Brazilian did bust a gut to create a crossing opportunity for Iwobi, which was promptly squandered. 6

Fode Ballo-Toure: More minutes for our second-choice left back who had little opportunity to influence proceedings as Bournemouth had long since put the game to bed. 6



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/afc-bournemouth-3-0-fulham-player-ratings/

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Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno to escape FA punishment after altercation with a ball boy during his side's 3-0 defeat at Bournemouth

    Bernd Leno was involved in an altercation with a ball boy at Bournemouth
    The German goalkeeper is set to escape further action for the incident

Bernd Leno is set to escape further action from the Football Association for his altercation with a ball boy during Fulham's defeat at Bournemouth.

Goalkeeper Leno made contact with the youngster - touching rather than pushing him manager Marco Silva insisted - as he went to retrieve the ball in the second half.

Leno had already been booked at that point but did not receive any further sanction from referee Tim Robinson.

The only action taken was the removal of the ball boys from around the pitch and ending of the multi-ball protocol for the closing stages of the game.

With such incidents like the one Leno was at the centre of left to the match officials to deal with he is poised to avoid any retrospective punishment.


Bernd Leno was involved in altercation with a ball boy during Fulham's game at Bournemouth
 

Leno is set to avoid punishment from the FA after publicly apologising for the incident

Leno did publicly apologise to the ball boy, giving him a hug, soon after the flashpoint in a clear show of contrition.

The incident sparked suggestions from Silva that the ball boys were under instruction to slow down their involvement once Bournemouth were in the lead.

They were firmly denied by his Bournemouth counterpart Andoni Iraola.



https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-12903543/Fulham-goalkeeper-Bernd-Leno-escape-FA-punishment-altercation-ball-boy-sides-3-0-defeat-Bournemouth.html

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Liverpool eye Fulham's Antonee Robinson as left-back injury crisis mounts

    Liverpool are without a natural left-back after injuries to both Andy Robertson & Kostas Tsimikas
    Robertson dislocated his shoulder; Tsimikas suffered a broken collarbone
    Talks have been held with Fulham over United States star Robinson

Liverpool have reached out to Fulham to discuss a deal for left-back Antonee Robinson in the January transfer window, 90min understands.

The Reds are currently without a natural left-back after starter Andy Robertson suffered a dislocated shoulder and understudy Kostas Tsimikas broke his collarbone, leaving the versatile Joe Gomez playing out on the left in Liverpool's last two games.

To try and address their concerns, 90min understands Liverpool are exploring a move for a new left-back in January and have made contact with Fulham to discuss Robinson's availability.

26-year-old Robinson signed a new five-year contract in July as a reward for his excellent form, and the United States international has been equally impressive this year with a return of three goals from 18 appearances.

Sources have confirmed to 90min that Robinson is open to moving to Anfield and Liverpool are now working in the hope of striking an agreement with Fulham.

Another solution for Liverpool would be recalling 21-year-old Welsh youngster Owen Beck from his loan with Dundee FC.

Beck has shone during his time in Scotland and Dundee boss Tony Docherty has confirmed Liverpool have reached out to discuss his continuation with the club beyond January, with the loan deal including the option for a recall this winter.

"We are in the middle of discussions," Docherty said of Beck's future with Dundee. "There is no confirmation [Beck will remain] just now but we are in discussions."

Docherty added last week: "We are still in talks just now. We are happy and [Liverpool] are happy."



https://www.90min.com/posts/liverpool-eye-fulham-antonee-robinson-left-back-injury-crisis-mounts

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Liverpool make first move to sign 'fast' player who Everton sold for just £2m
Liverpool are now interested in signing Fulham left back Antonee Robinson just over four years since Everton allowed him to walk away.

Liverpool are having real problems at left back.

The Reds saw Andrew Robertson go down with a shoulder injury in October and he hasn't yet returned to action.

Kostas Tsimikas has been filling in but he has now picked up a collarbone injury and faces months on the sidelines.

Liverpool are down two left backs and now asking Joe Gomez to play in that role with youngster Luke Chambers next up in the pecking order.

Liverpool want Antonee Robinson
90min now report that Liverpool are looking towards the transfer market for a potential left back signing.

It's stated that Liverpool have now made contact with Fulham as they chase a deal for Antonee Robinson.

Robinson is allegedly 'open' to joining Liverpool in January and the Reds are attempting to strike a deal with the Cottagers.

Robinson is under contract until 2028, so this won't be a cheap deal for Liverpool to pull off, especially in the middle of the season.

The 26-year-old has started 18 Premier League games this season, registering three assists in an important role under Marco Silva.

Robinson's greatest attribute is his pace and he has been praised for being 'athletic' and 'fast' by Wolves defender Matt Doherty.

That may appeal to Liverpool and a move to Anfield would see Robinson make a return to Merseyside...

Robinson to Liverpool would sting for Everton
USA international Robinson hails from Milton Keynes but started his career at Everton, joining their youth ranks at the age of just 11.

Robinson progressed through the ranks but was never given even a single first-team appearance.

The Toffees sold Robinson to Wigan Athletic for just £2million in 2019, allowing him to join the Latics permanently after a strong loan spell.

The 26-year-old stepped up to the Premier League with Fulham in 2020 and hasn't looked back, making Everton look rather foolish.

Seeing him shine elsewhere will sting enough, but seeing Robinson join bitter rivals Liverpool would really rub salt into the wound for Everton, who may end up having to face Robinson in Merseyside derbies in the near future.



https://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2023/12/27/liverpool-make-first-move-to-sign-fast-player-who-everton-sold-for-just-2m/

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Fulham star's performances causing transfer concern – Drama has impacted player
Bayern Munich are starting to question whether they should renew their interest in Fulham star Joao Palhinha, with his recent performances causing concern.

That's according to FCB Inside, who say a second move for him in January 'seems rather questionable' at this moment in time.

They explain that Bayern are targeting big deals in the January transfer window to bolster Thomas Tuchel's squad and find him the players he wants, particularly a number six.

Joao Palhinha was considered the 'top favourite' after the German giants tried to sign him in the summer but saw the deal fall through.

A new attempt next month was planned but those in charge at Bayern 'could have second thoughts' after watching the Portuguese midfielder in recent weeks.

They believe that Palhinha is 'not producing the same consistently strong performances' he once was, and which made him so interesting for Bayern in the first place.

The belief is that the transfer drama in the summer 'may have left its mark' on the 28-year-old and this was seen again this week as he put in a sub-par performance in the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth.

There are also questions about his price tag, with those in charge at Bayern wanting to pay considerably less than the €65m they were happy to pay Fulham in the summer.

They don't consider that as value for money, particularly after youngster Aleksandar Pavlovic impressed in central midfield and seemingly lessened the need for a signing in that area.

In simple terms, Bayern are questioning whether signing the Fulham man would be a good idea, and one of the more obvious January transfers may not be on the cards after all.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-stars-performances-causing-transfer-concern-drama-impacted-player/

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Liverpool 'working to strike agreement' for left-back contingency as PL star gives green light
Antonee Robinson is reportedly open to a move to Liverpool, as the Reds have contacted Fulham to discuss the potential of a transfer for the left-back.

Jurgen Klopp's side have been without Andy Robertson since October, with a shoulder injury keeping him out. Kostas Tsimikas was doing well filling the gap at left-back, before a coming together with Bukayo Saka saw him break his collarbone.

The Arsenal attacker apologised for his role, despite obviously not injuring him deliberately.

In any case, Tsimikas' injury leaves Liverpool without a fit senior left-back in the squad. While Joe Gomez has filled in since the injury to the Greek defender, Klopp clearly wants a natural left-back instead.

According to 90min, the Reds have 'reached out to Fulham' to to discuss a deal for Robinson. It's said the American is 'open to moving to Anfield' and Liverpool are 'working in the hope of striking an agreement' with the Cottagers.

It's unclear at this stage whether Fulham share the openness that the defender does regarding the move.

He seems a useful option for Liverpool if they were to get him. They play with full-backs that get involved with the attack and create, chipping in with assists.

Tsimikas had assisted three times in 10 league games before his injury, and right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has two goals and eight assists in all competitions this term.

Robinson is a similar style of player to the Liverpool pair, having notched three league assists this season, as well as one in the League Cup. It seems he'd fit the style Klopp wants to play.

Another option for the Reds manager that's mentioned in the report is recalling youngster Owen Beck from his loan with Dundee. Beck has played 16 times in the Scottish Premiership this term, scoring twice and assisting once.

While those are good numbers, he's played just two senior games for Liverpool, and the step up may be too far right now.

Robinson has played 81 times in the Premier League, so there would likely be no such growing pains. It remains to be seen if Klopp will get his wish with the American, though.



https://www.football365.com/news/liverpool-working-strike-agreement-left-back-contingency-pl-star-green-light

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Bernd Leno: FA's punishment stance after Fulham goalkeeper pushed ball boy
The Fulham goalkeeper will escape retrospective action for placing hand on boy during 3-0 defeat away to Bournemouth because referee Tim Robinson dealt with the incident during the match

 Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno is expected to escape punishment from the Football Association after appearing to shove a ball boy during the 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth on Boxing Day.

Leno, 31, placed his left arm on the boy as he hurried to retrieve the ball for a goal kick during the second half at Vitality Stadium. He later apologised to the boy and referee Tim Robinson intervened following the incident to instruct that all ball boys be stood down from action.

The FA view in such instances is that because the match officials dealt with it during the game, no retrospective action should be taken. Leno had already received a yellow card for attempting to delay Dominic Solanke from taking a penalty kick.

Speaking about the incident post-game, Fulham boss Marco Silva insisted that while Leno "touched" the boy it was not sufficient to call it a "push." He also suggested that the ball boys had been instructed to take their time so Bournemouth could preserve their two-goal cushion.

Silva said: "It's clear that Bernd went to speak with the boy after that moment as the top professional he is, a really experienced player. We wanted to play quick. I don't know who gave instructions for them to hold always the ball to delay the beginning of the game again.

"I didn't see him pushing. He touched the ball boy, not pushed the ball boy. They are different things. I am not English but I know the difference between one word and the other.

"To the fourth official it is so clear that the ball boys were delaying the game. At the moment it was already 2-0 but the rules are there. We wanted to play quick like Bournemouth before they had the chance to play quick.

"After they start leading, the ball boys did their job probably with instructions to delay the game and what the referee did in the moment was say we will finish the muti-ball to stop that situation. They were always delaying to avoid some problems. The referee took that decision."

But Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola said there were no instructions provided to the ball boys. He said: "I don't know what happened exactly but everyone has to be careful because they are boys who are trying to help everyone, not only Bournemouth, all parties involved."



https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/bernd-leno-fas-punishment-stance-31755422

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Fulham send scout to watch in-form star in action – Contract situation can lead to transfer
Fulham recently sent scouts to watch AZ Alkmaar striker Vangelis Pavlidis as they look to potentially bolster their forward line.

That's according to Sport 24 in Greece, who say Marco Silva's side have their eyes on the 21-year-old thanks to his performances this season.

They report that Pavlidis is 'on Fulham's list', with the current Eredivisie top goal scorer, who has 18 goals in 16 games in the league this season.

Those numbers, and his 'consistency in scoring' during his time in the Eredivisie so far have automatically placed the striker in a 'special position' for scouts looking for strikers.

AC Milan already saw a proposal turned down at the end of the summer but they're not the only ones scouting him and last Sunday saw their stadium 'flooded with scouts' from all over Europe.

More than 20 were accredited for the game with PSV Eindhoven and a Fulham scout was one of the ones in attendance.

Initial reports had them there to watch PSV star Yohan Bakayoko, but the 20-year-old was not the only reason they were there.

They're also looking for a striker, perhaps even two, with their plans depending on what happens with Raul Jimenez, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

Either way they want a big deal and have the money to get one done, leading them to check up on Pavlidis in this game.

AZ Alkmaar are aware of the interest and the need to sell in the coming months as his current contract expires in 2025 and he's made it clear he won't renew.

The Dutch side are eyeing €25m but that is a price which Fulham can likely negotiate given his contract situation. They will need more than the €15m Milan offered in the summer, though.

Whether they're willing to pay remains to be seen but he's a player on their radar nonetheless and something to potentially keep an eye on in the coming weeks.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-send-scout-watch-form-star-action-contract-situation-can-lead-transfer/

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Fulham boss Silva: Bournemouth deserved to win – we didn't create enough
Fulham boss Marco Silva conceded that his side deserved their 3-0 defeat at Bournemouth on Boxing Day.

Justin Kluivert opened the scoring for the Cherries before half-time when Alex Scott played through the former Roma winger inside the area to finish underneath Bernd Leno.

Dominic Solanke doubled Bournemouth's lead in the 62nd minute from the penalty spot and Luis Sinisterra rounded off the scoring when he unleashed an effort from the edge of the box into the top right-hand corner.

"Bournemouth won and they deserved to win – we have to say that," Silva told Amazon Prime.

"We didn't deserve anything from the game when you concede the goals the way we did. The first half was really balanced – both teams were in the game. They had their chances but we had our chances as well.

"They scored before half-time and made it difficult for us. We wanted to react in the second half but we didn't create enough."

Fulham will have striker Raul Jimenez available for their New Year's Eve home game against Arsenal after he completed his three-game suspension.

Brazilian attacker Willian missed the trip to the South Coast with a hamstring injury.

"We didn't play with two players who have been key for us," said Silva. "But when these types of things happen, others have to step in and show their quality – it was not the case at all. Now it's time for us to really analyse this game and realise things are going to be much more difficult for us if we play this way."



https://londonnewsonline.co.uk/fulham-boss-silva-bournemouth-deserved-to-win-we-didnt-create-enough/

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Fulham still 'favourites' to sign midfielder despite Manchester City approach
In the past few days, Fulham target André has been linked to Manchester City.

With Fluminense facing Pep Guardiola's side in the Club World Cup final, it was said he caught their attention. We even featured a story explaining how that rumour may have been misunderstood, but it got quite some attention from the Brazilian media.

Now as Globo Esporte journalist Marcello Neves speaks about André, he explains everything that has been happening around the player.

The reporter claims that Fulham are still the favourites to land the midfielder, as they're the only club who made a concrete offer.

It's said that Fluminense currently wait for bigger bids, but in case they don't arrive, then Craven Cottage 'should be' André's destination.

In Manchester City's case, Neves basically says what we wrote this week, claiming the reports got mixed up. He says there was an approach from Manchester City, who follow him, but nothing that became concrete.

The same goes to Liverpool, who, despite their interest, haven't made a bid. So Fulham look clear from the competition in their pursuit so far.



http://sportwitness.co.uk/fulham-still-favourites-sign-midfielder-despite-manchester-city-approach/

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Report: London rivals reach agreement to sign midfielder linked with Spurs
Journalist Pete O'Rourke has revealed in his column on Football Insider that Fulham have now reached an agreement in principle with Fluminense to sign Tottenham target Andre Trindade.

Trindade has emerged as one of the best midfielders in the Brazilian top flight over the last couple of seasons, playing a key role in Fluminense's Copa Libertadores triumph this year.

The youngster has now broken into the Selecao set-up and looks set to be the next Brazilian export to the Premier League.

Reports over the last couple of months have indicated that Spurs are one of several English clubs who had expressed an interest in the youngster, who is allegedly valued at £30m (Globo Esporte).

This was also backed by a Lance last month, with the outlet asserting that the Lilywhites had sent scouts to Brazil this season to assess the 22-year-old.

However, The Sunday Mirror (19/11, page 74) subsequently claimed that Fulham had moved to the pole position in the race for the defensive midfielder's signature.

Deal agreed for Fulham to sign Andre
O'Rourke has now said that the Cottagers have reached an agreement in principle with Fluminense and are poised to bring Andre to the Premier League.

He adds that Marco Silva's men are now only waiting for the player to give the green light to a move, with the Brazil international said to be keen on the idea of moving to England.

The journalist says that on the back of this development, the likes of Spurs, Arsenal and Liverpool are set to end their interest in Andre.

Spurs Web Opinion
Andre might have felt that he stood a better chance of getting regular game time at a mid-table side like Fulham and the fact that Marco Silva speaks the same language might have also been a factor in the Cottagers' success.



https://www.spurs-web.com/spurs-news/report-london-rivals-reach-agreement-to-sign-midfielder-linked-with-spurs/

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Ipswich Town gain will firmly be Birmingham City's loss if Jay Stansfield deal gets done: View

    Birmingham City's Jay Stansfield has shown promise during his loan spell, despite the team's inconsistent form under Wayne Rooney.
    Stansfield has contributed nine goals to Birmingham's campaign so far, with his scoring often coming in bursts.
    Ipswich Town could benefit from Stansfield's abilities, but he must carefully consider his options, including staying at Birmingham for their track record of developing young talents.

With the January transfer window less than a week away, now is a prime time for managers across the Championship to assess where their respective squads are currently at, with the aim of strengthening in the subsequent 31-day period.

Despite both clubs starting the season on strong runs of form, Birmingham City and Ipswich Town are two sides who will have differing aims as we officially enter the second period of the second tier campaign. Kieran McKenna's side currently sit five points inside the top two, whilst Birmingham have regressed under Wayne Rooney's management and could be precariously looking over their shoulder if results are to follow in a similar, inconsistent pattern.

Birmingham City's bright spark
Despite Birmingham's inconsistencies whilst adapting to Rooney's style of play, although the former Derby County boss has been at St Andrew's for over two months now, Jay Stansfield has continued to show glimpses of a promising future career throughout his loan spell.

Since making the temporary move from Fulham in John Eustace's final transfer window in charge in B9, the former Exeter City loanee has nine goal contributions to his name across 21 appearances for the Blues.

Seven of those have been through his own strikes, although these have often come in bursts in the first period of the campaign. After making his scoring debut against Plymouth Argyle on August 26th, Stansfield would score another two in the next three games, before failing to score until 28th October, which saw two in consecutive outings against high-flying Southampton and the aforementioned Tractor Boys.

Subsequently, his opener in the 3-3 draw at Home Park on Saturday was his first goal since then, which he backed up with a consolation in Wednesday's 3-1 home defeat to Stoke, which owed much to fellow prospect Romelle Donovan's hard work on the right flank.

Ipswich Town to potentially benefit from Jay Stansfield
As previously highlighted, Kieran McKenna's side will be all too aware of the threats Stansfield could pose after he opened the scoring in the sides' 2-2 draw back on November 4th, added to the fact he more than fits the bill when it comes to his philosophy.

Back in Town's League One days, the Northern Irishman set his stall out in terms of squad building, stating he wanted a "balance of different types and different ages, but primarily I want the squad built around a young, hungry, technical and athletic group of players who have a real passion to play for this football club. That will be the base," he said via the East Anglian Daily Times back in March 2022.

Town have more than showcased those qualities upon their return to the Championship, with McKenna's all-action playing style seeing the East Anglian outfit find the net 48 times - the division's joint highest, with an array of attackers at the centre of such statistics.

The fact that Ipswich reportedly have a £3m transfer pot for a striker in the upcoming window opens the door for a number of targets, especially as Dane Scarlett has been recalled by Tottenham Hotspur after the England youth international failed to score in 12 appearances.

Whilst the opportunity to add a Championship promotion on his CV will no doubt excite Stansfield, the circumstances surrounding Scarlett's loan agreement means he mustn't fully commit to the idea of moving to Portman Road, as staying at a club such as Birmingham, with their track record of developing young talents potentially more beneficial in the long run despite their lowly league position.



https://footballleagueworld.co.uk/ipswich-town-gain-will-firmly-be-birmingham-citys-loss-if-jay-stansfield-deal-gets-done-view/

[WhiteJC]

Positives and negatives: AFC Bournemouth 3-0 Fulham

He maybe should've stayed at home to play endless games of Monopoly Deal but Cam made the trip down to the seaside to bring you this, the Lynx Africa gift set equivalent of positives and negatives.

I can't believe I willingly swapped Boxing Day bubble and squeak for post Christmas depression. Bournemouth play at the Vitality Stadium, which is befitting because they approached the game with energy and if it were Fulham's home ground, it would probably be renamed the Cant Be Arsed Arena.

Andoni Iraola has straightened the Cherries out, they're a cohesive, organised unit and Marco Silva's Whites, who had achieved their very best form in recent weeks, have seemingly lost their way. It's a far cry from last season's 3-0 victory at Selhurst Park, our lack of competent squad depth is coming to the fore and our abrupt lapse has to be addressed before title hopefuls Arsenal visit SW6 on New Year's Eve.

We had excelled at the turn of December, we were scoring at will, keeping clean sheets and there was a very real feel-good factor amongst the squad. Almost inexplicably, that optimism and inspiration has dissipated and now, while the campaign's far from over, Marco Silva has to find solutions and we have to rediscover our rebellious edge, that do-or-die ethic that made us an extremely difficult side to subdue. The festive feast of football isn't over just yet, so get stuck into those leftovers, put the past behind you and look forward to the coming Sunday, our final game of 2023, an occasion Fulham have to rise to without excuses.

Positives

The slimmest of pickings

Salvaging positives from matchday 19 is nigh on impossible, I'm reaching for the slimmest of pickings here and even if I can identify one single reason to be chipper, it'll be at a stretch. Calvin Bassey was probably the only player in black and white that wanted to make a difference, he carried possession with intent, he was combative when he had to get involved directly but it was all for naught. His efforts alone would never be enough, his teammates weren't up to the task and actually, from a reassuring standpoint, I don't thing anything more can be said. If you've any suggestions, feel free to contribute because I am fresh out of enthusiasm.

Negatives

No Christmas cheer

Sluggish on the ball, soft as poo at the back and atrociously restrained on the offensive. Silva's Whites were comprehensively outplayed by the Cherries but it's not as though the hosts were even made to toil for the spoils. Without question, Fulham's laboured showing at the Vitality was one of the worst we've had to suffer through in recent times, the lads were visibly knackered, we've no competitive depth and the strikers we have at our disposal simply aren't cut out for the Premier League.

Without Raul Jimenez up top, as strange as it is to admit, we had no imagination in the final third and Rodrigo Muniz cannot hold up play whatsoever, as any supposed number nine should. He couldn't get a game at Middlesbrough last season, so why did anyone at the club believe he was ready to lead the line in the world's most challenging division? Obviously, he isn't a first-choice but as injuries and indeed suspensions occur throughout the season, the likelihood of him being involved out of necessity was always high and other than Carlos Vinicius, I don't think I've ever seen a striker more inept than the Brazilian back-up dancer. He offers zilch and I doubt he'll ever acclimatise to the English game.

Containable, predictable, hesitant, at a total loss in virtually every aspect, Fulham depicted a side that could quite easily sleepwalk into a relegation scrap and I don't think anyone could argue against that. Our sudden U-turn in the space of a fortnight is criminal, we've gone from smashing teams 5-0 to barely registering a single meaningful shot on target, a team that set about their business with urgency to a disordered shell fresh out of ideas. I genuinely hope this is a blip blamed on lethargy, but I am concerned and I think there's valid reason to be so.

Bournemouth were in complete control, they gradually chipped away and they soon exploited our weaknesses out wide on the right and they consistently pinpointed both Kenny Tete and Bobby Decordova-Reid. It wasn't Tete's finest outing, by his standards it was one of his worst, BDR's defensive input was also minimal and that spelled serious trouble. That's where Bournemouth found joy, they isolated Kenny, hit the overlap and worked the target with certainty. Our defensive concentration was amateurish, although it definitely wasn't helped by our inactivity in attacking scenarios.

We didn't move possession convincingly, it was plodding, tedious, and every time play was listlessly slung up field, it was hijacked by the Cherries commanding central defenders and we were pushed onto the back foot by our own inefficient design. The only time Neto laid glove to ball is when he scooped up tame crosses headed for nowhere, we shaded possession but as it was against Burnley, we did bugger all with it because we weren't equipped to force the initiative, our midfield was bypassed yet again as Alex Scott called the shots, Joao Palhinha was chasing his own tail and there's only so much Tom Cairney can achieve when there isn't any movement ahead of him.

Frustrations boiled over as Bernd Leno shoved a child, our collective confidence has plummeted to an all-time low from a stratospheric high and now, tough questions will need to be answered and actions will need to be implemented both on the training field, and in the January transfer window. It was the toughest watch of the Silva era, it will be the easiest three points Bournemouth will pick up this season and defeats such as our latest cannot become a trend because even against the Cherries, a team of similar ability on paper, we were distinctly inferior and that is the cold reality of where this team is currently at.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/post/2023-12-27-positives-and-negatives-afc-bournemouth-3-0-fulham/

[WhiteJC]

Leno escapes punishment for pushing ball boy
The Football Association have this afternoon ruled out punishing Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno after he pushed a ball boy during the 3-0 defeat at Bournemouth on Boxing Day because referee Tim Robinson dealt with the incident at the time.

The German international pushed the ball boy as he sought to retrieve a ball to take a goal kick with the Whites 2-0 heading into the closing stages at the Vitality Stadium. Leno later apologised for his actions and Robinson included in his referee's report that he had instructed the head of stewarding to remove all the ball boys from the perimeter of the pitch after the incident occurred.



https://hammyend.com/index.php/2023/12/leno-escapes-punishment-for-pushing-ball-boy/

[WhiteJC]

Antonee Robinson open to Liverpool move
Liverpool are looking to sign a new left-back and they have reached out to Fulham to discuss the possibility of a deal for left-back Antonee Robinson, according to a report from 90min.

The Reds are currently without a natural left-back. Andy Robertson suffered a dislocated shoulder while Kostas Tsimikas broke his collarbone, which means Jurgen Klopp has no other option but to use Joe Gomez in the left-back role.

Liverpool, as a result, are exploring the possibility of signing a new left-back and they have earmarked Robinson as a potential option.

90min claims that Robinson is open to moving to Anfield and Liverpool are now hoping that they can reach an agreement with Fulham for the 26-year-old.

Emergency
Both Robertson and Tsimikas are long-term absentees and it will be too risky for Liverpool to wait for their return with Gomez as the only other option. Gomez is a versatile defender but he is not a natural left-back.

Ideally, Liverpool would have loved to sign a new right-back and a central defender or a defensive midfielder, but this is a crisis for them. They cannot take a big gamble and it could hamper their title bid this season.

It won't be easy to prise Robinson out of Craven Cottage cheaply. He signed a new five-year contract in July and the United States international has been equally impressive this year having managed three goals from 18 appearances.

Another option for Liverpool would be to recall 21-year-old Welsh youngster Owen Beck from his loan with Dundee FC.

Liverpool have a good relationship with Fulham having signed Fabio Carvalho from them. Meanwhile, the Reds have moved into the top of the Premier League after they defeated Burnley 2-0 on Boxing Day.



https://sports-view.co.uk/2023/12/antonee-robinson-open-to-liverpool-move

[WhiteJC]

Report: Bayern Munich consider Fulham FC midfielder João Palhinha "not a necessity" this winter
Is the courtship finally over?

Bayern Munich remained loyal to João Palhinha after he nearly moved to Munich at the end of the 2023 transfer window, but they have steadily distanced themselves from the Fulham FC midfielder. Now, it looks like the Bavarians are on the brink of ditching their Palhinha pursuit for good.

German news outlet Bild via Get German Football News reports that although Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel wants a CDM in January, the club is looking for a player who can cover defense and midfield as a secondary need. Raphaël Guerreiro returning from injury and being able to play in the middle is another reason why Palhinha is not as high a priority as he was a few months ago.

Bayern is also reluctant to pay the €65 million quoted by Fulham for the Portuguese international and with other options proving to be more feasible, the Palhinha saga is close to being put to bed.



https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2023/12/27/24016354/bayern-munich-consider-fulham-midfielder-joao-palhinha-not-a-necessity-thomas-tuchel-rapha-guerreiro