Fulham ‘target’ Serie A defender amid ‘talks’ with Arsenal over out-of-favour star

Fulham are enjoying a superb season back in the Premier League, currently sitting in a European spot.

The Cottagers defeated Leicester City away from home on Tuesday night, and that made it three straight wins for Marco Silva’s men, taking them into seventh place. Fulham are likely only 12 points or 13 points from guaranteed safety, but they will have much greater ambitions having established themselves as a top-half contender at the very least. It will be interesting to see what Fulham’s January transfer says about their ambitions this season.

And with that in mind, have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding Craven Cottage.

Defensive targets

Fulham have already identified targets as they look to strengthen their back-line.

According to SampNews24, the Cottagers are eyeing AS Roma’s Chris Smalling and Sampdoria’s Omar Colley as possible signings, with Silva wanting more depth in the heart of his defence. Smalling previously spent time with Fulham on loan, and he may be an attractive option given his Premier League experience.

But Romas have shown a reluctance to sell as recently as the summer window, so it will be interesting to see where that deal goes, in particular, if anywhere.

Soares chase

Fulham and Arsenal are said to be expected to continue to discuss a potential deal for full-back Cedric Soares.

According to 90Min, Arsenal are said to be hopeful of agreeing a deal with Fulham, who are already said to have agreed a fee for the out-of-favour right-back. Though, it’s claimed the defender’s big wages could be a stumbling block for Fulham, who also want to strengthen other areas.

Soares would likely need to take a pay cut if he wants to work with former Sporting Lisbon boss Silva again, this time at Craven Cottage. Arsenal are said to be keen to complete a deal.