Brede Hangeland will finally put pen to paper on his new Fulham contract within the next fortnight, according to the Daily Telegraph.
The Norwegian defender, who has been an indispensable part of Roy Hodgson’s defence since signing for Fulham from FC Copenhagen in January 2008, has been heavily linked with a move to either Arsenal or Manchester City throughout the summer. The 6ft 5in centre half has insisted he is happy at Craven Cottage and is ready to commit his future to the Whites by signing a two-year contract extension.
The 28 year-old has been offered a pay packet of £50,000, which will promote him to Fulham’s top wage bracket alongside club captain Danny Murphy. Hodgson said:
“As far as we’re concerned we want Brede Hangeland to stay with us here. We are going to be as desperate as a club can be to hold onto him. In the meantime the speculation will be abounding and we will get on with the job and try not to be too disturbed by them. He is happy here at Fulham and not desperately seeking a move elsewhere.”
Hangeland has made ten appearances for Fulham this season and Arsene Wenger has recently ruled out taking him to the Emirates after being impressed with the form of Thomas Vermaelen.
Arsenal have long been linked with Hangeland although the impressive early season form of Thomas Vermaelen might have seen them drop their interest.