Fulham have confirmed the signing of Manchester United defender Timothy Fosu-Mensah on a season-long loan deal.

The versatile 20 year-old defender, who can operate as a right back, in the centre of defence or in central midfield, has arrived from Old Trafford to gain more Premier League experience following his loan spell at Crystal Palace last season. The Dutch international made 24 appearances for the Eagles as Roy Hodgson’s side comfortably avoided the drop – and he could be considered to start against the south London outfit in Fulham’s first game of the season at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

Fosu-Mensah remains highly rated at United, whom he joined from the Ajax academy at the age of sixteen, and he has made 21 senior appearances for the Red Devils. He told Fulham’s official website this evening of his delight at finalising his latest loan switch:

I have a good feeling about the Club. It has a nice history, it’s a nice Club. Fulham has a lot of good players, and it’s good for my development to be here. I spoke to the Manager and he gave me a good feeling. I’m happy to be here and I want to keep progressing.

Fulham’s vice chairman and head of football operations, Tony Khan, commented:

I’m pleased to announce that Fulham Football Club has signed Timothy Fosu-Mensah on loan from Manchester United. Timothy is a gifted young defender who excels at multiple positions, and his addition will further reinforce a strong and promising squad that we have assembled to compete in the Premier League.

Fosu-Mensah’s arrival will boost Slavisa Jokanovic’s defensive options ahead of the new campaign. He is unlikely to start ahead of Calum Chambers and Tim Ream at the heart of the defence, but provides an experienced alternative to Irish international Cyrus Christie at right back.