Benfica centre back Rafik Halliche is reportedly close to completing a £2m move to Fulham.

The 23-year-old, who was impressive at the heart of Algeria’s defence in their 0-0 with England at the World Cup, has been tipped to move to a number of English clubs this summer. He was linked with a £4m to Arsenal earlier in the close season and has also apparently interested West Ham.

This report suggests that Halliche and Benfica held talks with Fulham on Friday and the latest word from Portugal is that Fulham have agreed a fee with the Portuguese club. Halliche, who played all three games for Algeria in South Africa having spent the last two seasons on loan at C.D. Nacional, is expected to fly to London today for a medical. He should receive a visa from the Algerian Embassy upon arrival – the paperwork has been held as the embassy was closed for the past three days.