Thursday Fulham Stuff - 16/04/26...

[WhiteJC]

Fulham and Aston Villa now want Chelsea outcast Axel Disasi amid West Ham form
Axel Disasi was a mainstay at Chelsea in his first season. After 18 months on the sidelines, he is once again proving why Chelsea signed him – and Premier League clubs are taking notice.

Now 28, Disasi is proving he is more than capable of shining in the Premier League. He joined Chelsea in the summer of 2023 from Monaco for a £39m fee, and became first choice under Mauricio Pochettino.

But the arrival of Enzo Maresca saw the five-time France international's game time drop. He became a part of the infamous bomb squad under Maresca, along with Ben Chilwell and Raheem Sterling.

A loan to Aston Villa in January 2025 failed to do the trick for Disasi, and he returned to Chelsea last summer. Unable to find another move, he remained before joining West Ham on loan earlier this year.

Axel Disasi's revival at West Ham is attracting suitors
Before the January window, relegation was staring West Ham in the face. But the arrival of Disasi has changed that. The French defender has been a powerhouse at the back for Nuno Espirito Santo.

In his eight Premier League games with the Hammers, Disasi has helped his loan side pick up 12 points. Three wins, draws against Man City and Man United, and only two defeats. Four clean sheets, too.

If West Ham stay up, Disasi will have played a key role. But the Hammers are not the only side expected to show interest in Disasi, if they stay up. Indeed, according to Sebastien Vidal, Fulham and Villa are keen.

Vidal said on X: "Aston Villa join race to bring back Disasi, but the competition is real with West Ham and Fulham. The Hammers hold the advantage for now, but everything depends on the price Chelsea sets."

Chelsea need central defenders. Could Disasi be the man?
Over at Stamford Bridge, the biggest priority this summer is likely to be sorting out and improving the club's options at centre-back. The Blues have a whole wealth of centre-backs, but none good enough.

Plenty have been linked with a move to West London. Strahinja Pavlovic, Mario Gila, Kim Min-jae, Dayot Upamecano, Marcos Senesi, and plenty more. But could the solution be one within their own ranks?

Disasi's form at West Ham is hard to ignore, and under Liam Rosenior, the £78k-a-week star could be tempted to reignite his Chelsea career. But, at this stage, there may be too much water under the bridge.



https://www.thechelseachronicle.com/transfer-news/fulham-and-aston-villa-now-want-chelsea-outcast-axel-disasi-amid-west-ham-form/

[WhiteJC]

Don't be concerned about Marco Silva's contract - there's work to do
The situation is frustrating, but it shouldn't change what Fulham ought to be doing right now.

With seemingly not that much left to play for this season after our tepid defeat at Anfield, it feels like the discussion around Marco Silva's contract situation has reached its noisy peak this week.

It's completely reasonable; obviously fans want to have some sort of feeling of direction around what is going to happen next season and who will be at the helm of this football club.

Standing in the away end at Anfield, watching Fulham pull off arguably the most insipid performance we've put together all season, I'd wager there weren't many people more frustrated with what the Whites put out than me - especially given that Liverpool were reeling from a few bleak results of their own and the protest-driven atmosphere meant we weren't facing the full power of a Kop in its pomp.

A lot of the post-match discourse has been around the idea that this team is not giving everything because they're unsure about the future, the manager's position, and where this team is going to be next year. Respectfully, I would say that's bollocks.

For the last few seasons, there has been none of this uncertainty around Marco's contract - but we've seen this movie before.

Last term, after the March international break, Fulham were on course for a potential European finish, and we lost seven of our last 10, including that incredibly painful quarter-final cup exit to Crystal Palace on the first weekend back.

The season prior, we won just two of our last nine, with three draws and four losses. And in our first campaign back up, we won just four of the last 11 after the break, losing six.

Having nothing left in the tank as we get to the final stretch is a massive frustration, but it's not new, and thus I struggle to tie it to Marco Silva's future being unresolved.

Many people will point to these end-of-season slumps as a reason why Fulham and Silva should part ways at the end of the campaign, which is as fair an argument as any. I think there's a trade-off there, and personally I fall on the side of keeping Marco around if we can, but it's perfectly legitimate to ask the question on whether these tired finishes put a ceiling on Fulham's ambitions. That argument though, is not really what I'm getting at here.

We haven't seen Fulham in a managerial search for five years. That's a very long time in football, highlighted by the fact that Marco is our longest-serving manager since Bedford Jezzard left in the mid-1960s, frustrated that football was abolishing a maximum wage. We've come a long way since then.

In truth, we have no idea what a managerial search now looks like, but the long-buried lede of this piece is that Marco's contract situation shouldn't really change what Fulham are doing. There is a contract on the table, as Drew points out in his piece, and a pretty good one at that. That's fine - because in no world are Fulham and Marco going to go our separate ways before the season is out.

What it doesn't change is that the club hierarchy should have been exploring our options for months - the lack of a signature on the dotted line means that nobody, least of all Marco, should have any issues with that going on.

There is going to be a very interesting group of managers who come onto the market this summer, whether post-World Cup or before it, but the ducks need to be in a row. If the club's ideal situation is that Marco continues at the helm. That's reasonable, but you can't bank on it before the ink is dry and the contract is done.

Whether the club look to a young manager doing well in Europe - which is personally what I would prefer, although it obviously comes with inherent risk. Whether they're planning to promote from within, or to bring back someone from Silva's previous coaching staff who would provide a sense of continuity - I've said on the pod that I'm a big fan of what Hugo Oliveira is doing at Famalicão this season, and there's a clear cultural club connection given that he's of Silva's coaching tree.

Whether they're going for a bigger, more globally recognised name - this might sound outlandish but Fulham are a well-established Premier League club based in a nice part of London, who have money to spend and a squad with a lot of talent already set up. The truth is, we don't know what this strategy is going to be, but perhaps most importantly, the work should already be well in progress by this point in terms of sounding out options and exploring names who would be interested in coming in to manage this side.

If Silva signs, that is not wasted work. It's due diligence on a complicated situation. If he doesn't, Fulham are able to spring into action quickly because it has been done. There will be plenty of clubs on the hunt this summer - almost certainly our neighbours on the other side of SW6, probably Liverpool, maybe Manchester United and Newcastle United as well, definitely Crystal Palace - and that's just the Premier League. We need to be proactive, and diligent - we know what a mistake can mean in this division.

So the contract hangs over this end of season, sure; but while I remain in the camp of "let Marco make up his mind", those hard yards in the background should already be being run by the club, whatever the outcome ends up being with our incumbent boss.



https://www.fulhamish.co.uk/p/dont-be-concerned-about-marco-silvas

[WhiteJC]

£25m claim regarding Leeds United, Fulham, Aston Villa and Everton-linked Southampton star Leo Scienza emerges
Leeds United could reportedly have the chance to sign Leo Scienza from Southampton for £25m.

The 27-year-old arrived on British shores in the last summer window, joining Southampton from Bundesliga outfit 1. FC Heidenheim.

He penned a four-year deal at St Mary's but his scintillating form in the Championship has fuelled talk of interest from the Premier League.

A winger who can also operate as an attacking midfielder, Scienza has delivered seven goals and nine assists across 33 league outings this term.

Leeds are among those to have been linked with the Brazilian, who is also thought to be of interest to Aston Villa, Everton, Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur.

Leo Scienza claim
According to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte, there is a £25m release clause in Scienza's contract that could pave the way for a Premier League move.

The report has suggested the Saints are aware of interest from elsewhere and are working to renew Scienza's contract terms.

A lot may hinge on Southampton's fate in the Championship, as the fourth-placed Saints are challenging for promotion.

After he was recruited by the Saints, Southampton's sporting director Johannes Spors said: "Leo is someone we feel can adapt well to English football. He is a creative player, a progressive dribbler and a strong set-piece taker.

"He is a player who has consistently produced goals and assists in every league he has played, and is an exciting addition to our forward line."

Always a place for flair
Leeds boss Daniel Farke has shown a clear preference for physical and mobile workhorses this season, although there is always a place for flair.

This was evident on Monday (April 13), when the fleet-footed Noah Okafor fired the Whites to a 2-1 win over Manchester United with a brace.

Scienza has adapted well to the rough and tumble of English football, suggesting he could be a shrewd addition for a Premier League club.



https://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/sport/football/leeds-united-leo-scienza-southampton-fulham-everton-aston-villa-ps25m-6575522

[WhiteJC]

Aston Villa rival Fulham, West Ham United in Axel Disasi chase
Aston Villa will reportedly compete with Fulham and West Ham United in the race to sign 28-year-old French centre-back Axel Disasi from Chelsea this summer.

According to an update by French journalist Sebastien Vidal, Axel Disasi is the subject of interest from Aston Villa. Fulham and West Ham United are also keen on completing a permanent deal for the Chelsea misfit in the upcoming transfer window. However, the Hammers "hold the advantage for now" in the battle for the 28-year-old defender's signature, although "everything will depend on the price set by Chelsea".

Axel Disasi and his topsy-turvy Premier League stint
Axel Disasi has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Chelsea from AS Monaco in a deal worth €45 million in August 2023. The 28-year-old was solid in his debut season, but he gradually fell in stature before becoming a peripheral figure at the West London club. A loan spell with Aston Villa during the second half of the 2024/25 campaign was unsuccessful, and he spent the first half of the ongoing campaign on the sidelines at Chelsea.

However, the French defender has been resurgent during his loan spell with West Ham United, making 11 appearances for the East London outfit thus far. Meanwhile, Disasi's exploits in his first few weeks at the London Stadium have compelled West Ham to seek a permanent move. However, they will face stiff competition from Aston Villa and Fulham for the Frenchman's signature.

A man in demand
Aston Villa may dip into the market for a centre-back in the coming months, as Tyrone Mings is on the wrong side of 30. Additionally, recent reports have claimed that the West Midlands outfit may sell the experienced Englishman this year. So, Disasi has emerged as a viable target for Aston Villa, as he can become Ezri Konsa's central defensive partner.

Meanwhile, West Ham United's interest in a permanent move for Axel Disasi makes sense. The Hammers are scouring the market for a centre-back, as Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Konstantinos Mavropanos have been inconsistent during their spells with the East London club. So, with Disasi being impressive in his early days at West Ham, a deal for the 28-year-old Frenchman will be sensible.

As for Fulham, it is unclear why the Cottagers need a centre-back. Joachim Andersen and Calvin Bassey have been consistent at the heart of the defence. However, if a centre-back leaves the West London club this summer, they can dip into the market for a replacement. So, Disasi is an option worth considering.

However, Aston Villa and Fulham are behind West Ham in the battle for Disasi's signature, as the Hammers are best-placed to secure his services. It will be interesting to see how much Chelsea will demand to part ways with the French international ahead of the 2026/27 season.



https://thehardtackle.com/transfer-news/2026/04/15/aston-villa-rival-fulham-west-ham-united-in-axel-disasi-chase/

[WhiteJC]

Fulham Football Club nominated in the Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026

Fulham Football Club nominated in the Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026

The Club is delighted to announce that it has received excellent recognition by Stadium Experience with three matchday hospitality nominations for the forthcoming Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards 2026 in July.

Fulham FC has been nominated for the Visiting Football Directors, Matchday Hospitality (Large Stadium) & Overall Matchday Hospitality award categories.

The awards will take place at Hill Dickinson Stadium, the new home of Everton FC on Thursday 2nd July 2026 where there will be a total of 15 different award categories and 45 awards presented on the evening.
The prestigious event aims to recognise the efforts and dedication shown by the catering, conference and events teams at football, rugby, and cricket stadia across the UK.

Stadium Experience Chair, Collette Salmon, commented:
 
"Stadium teams go above and beyond to create outstanding experiences, whether on matchdays or for non-matchday events. These awards celebrate that passion, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Congratulations and best of luck to all of this year's nominees—we look forward to revealing the winners in Liverpool on 2nd July!"
 
Fulham FC Head of Sales and Business Development, Jimmy Ord, added:

"It's a privilege to see The Riverside recognised with three nominations at this year's Stadium Events & Hospitality Awards.

"While we've already been fortunate to receive industry recognition this season, these nominations further reflect the dedication and standards our teams bring every day to delivering consistently exceptional, fan- and guest-led experiences.

"Across the Club, a committed and pioneering group of colleagues take genuine pride in shaping The Riverside into a leading destination for sports and hospitality. We're grateful to see their efforts recognised, and remain wholly focused on continuing to raise the bar as we welcome more supporters, guests and members into The Riverside community next season."

For more information on Fulham FC Matchday Hospitality -  register your interest or speak to the team here.

https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/april/15/fulham-football-club-nominated-in-the-stadium-events---hospitality-awards-2026/

[WhiteJC]

BSL interpretation at FFCW fixture

Fulham FC is proud to announce that BSL interpretation will be trialled at Fulham Women's game against Luton Town on Sunday.

As part of the Club's ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion, a qualified BSL Interpreter will appear on the in-bowl big screens to translate both the pre-match and half-time entertainment.

Whenever Ivan Berry is featured, the live interpreter will also be displayed on the stadium's large screens so that every supporter can follow and engage in our interviews and announcements.

Through our ongoing collaboration with our Disabled Supporters Association (DSA), we've recognised that this addition should enhance accessibility on matchdays. Their insight and feedback have been invaluable in helping us understand this service better.

As we introduce this trial for this weekend's match, we would love to hear any feedback on the service from supporters who use BSL. Anyone wishing to provide feedback can email: enquiries@fulhamfc.com

If you have ways this BSL service could be improved, or if you would like to see it as a regular service, then please also contact us.

For more information on accessibility at Craven Cottage, or to request assistance ahead of your visit, please view our Disabled Supporter Information page here, or contact enquiries@fulhamfc.com.



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/april/09/bsl-interpretation-at-ffcw-fixture/

[WhiteJC]

"I wouldn't go" – Player told to reject Fulham and wait for World Cup
PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi should reject any more approaches from Fulham and wait for the World Cup before deciding his future.

That advice comes from journalist Mounir Boualin, via PSV Fans. He believes that the striker should now abandon any plans for a switch to Craven Cottage.

Fulham transfer disaster
Ricardo Pepi appeared destined for a move to Fulham after the club struck a deal with PSV Eindhoven last month.

Marco Silva's side had tried for the 23-year-old in the January transfer window. That failed, but they revived talks with PSV about a deal for the summer after it.

All was going to plan, with Pepi even travelling to London for a medical. However, the deal then collapsed as Fulham and PSV couldn't agree on when they would transfer responsibility for the player.

Reports in the Netherlands have explained that Fulham are expected to come back at some point. But they may now need to convinced Pepi, who was left very disappointed by the transfer collapse.

Reject Fulham and wait
Now journalist Mounia Boualin believes if Fulham do return, Ricardo Pepi should be turning them down. With the World Cup on the horizon, he may have better options on the table.

"Ricardo Pepi's transfer to Fulham fell through, but the expectation is that Fulham will come back with another offer," he said on Soccer News' Transfermind podcast.

"If I were Pepi, I wouldn't go—but that's just my opinion. If he has a strong World Cup, other clubs will surely come calling for him."

Growing idea in the Netherlands
The idea that Fulham may have shot themselves in the foot with Ricardo Pepi isn't a new one in the Netherlands. In fact, Sport Witness covered a report at the end of last month saying as much.

The belief is that he will have a good World Cup. And not only will that increase his value but also add to his potential suitors.

That, of course, is something we've seen before in the past. Whether the transfer collapse comes back to haunt Fulham with Pepi, remains to be seen.



https://sportwitness.co.uk/i-wouldnt-go-player-told-to-reject-fulham-and-wait-for-world-cup/

[WhiteJC]

White signs first pro deal

The Club is delighted to announce that Alfie White has signed his first professional contract at Fulham.

White, who has been with Fulham since the Under-14s stage, has put pen to paper on a pro deal following an impressive couple of years as a scholar.

An all-action midfielder, White has enjoyed a solid mix of U18 and U21 football this season. He's played 30 games in total; 17 times with the U18 and 13 with the older age group. White has also played minutes at right-back and centre-back in recent months.

The 18-year-old has been in top form lately, scoring his first PL2 goal with a diving header in the win over Chelsea last Friday, while he also has three goal contributions in his last five U18 appearances, scoring a 94th minute equaliser from a free-kick against Crystal Palace last month.

White told fulhamfc.com: "I'm really delighted to sign my first professional contract. If you said to me when I joined the Club at 14 that I'd be signing my first professional contract now, I wouldn't believe you.

"I'm grateful for the chance and hopefully I can now push on. My main target is to be around the First Team environment and to get that experience. Being around those players, who have high standards, makes you a better player."



https://www.fulhamfc.com/news/2026/april/15/white-signs-first-pro-deal/