Fulham are hot on the trail of Real Zaragoza’s Luciano Galletti, but the Argentine has shunned their interest insisting he is happy in Spain.
It is understood that Fulham attended Sunday’s game with Real Sociedad at Estadio La Romareda and witnessed a 2-1 home victory.
The 24-year-old has now confirmed that The Whites held talks with his father – who also acts as his agent.
“They [Fulham] really wanted me, but this is impossible,” said Galleti.
“I told them my answer and they have taken this.
“English soccer has a great level, but, at the moment, the Spanish League is the best in the world.”
The 24-year-old, who has had stints with Parma, Napoli and Estudiantes, is contracted to the club until 2006 and would not come cheaply.
His buy-out clause currently stands at $30 million (£20.3 million) and Fulham would need to offer close to €10 million (£6.7 million) if they wanted to secure his services.
Fulham have already replaced the departed Louis Saha with Brian McBride, while also signing Dutch starlet Collins John – but manager Chris Coleman is determined to continue enhancing his squad and could still make a move for Galleti in the summer.