Fulham have rejected a £10m bid from Tottenham for Moussa Dembele, according to the Telegraph.
Tottenham were understood to have been rebuffed in an attempt to sign the Belgian international striker on transfer deadline day back in January after he starred in Fulham’s 4-0 FA Cup romp but Spurs have now tested their resolve to hold onto Dembele with a much greater offer. The deal is understood to be a straight cash offer as Harry Redknapp seeks to improve his options up front.
The paper goes on to speculate about the possibility of Robbie Keane joining Fulham, but despite previous rumours, the club have shown little interest in signing the Republic of Ireland’s record scorer. Holding onto the likes of Dembele will be the acid test of just how ambitious Fulham are. Despite having his first season in English football interrupted by two serious injuries, Dembele has become an important part of the Fulham side. He might have only scored three Premier League goals, but his creativity ensured Fulham’s slump without Bobby Zamora wasn’t more serious.
Ironically, Jol recognised this earlier today in comments published on the offal:
I know a lot about the squad I inherited. I enjoy watching players like Moussa Dembélé, who I have known for a while.
Not surprised others are sniffing around. Hope we hold on to him, I reckon next season could be a big one for him.
Any idea how much we paid for him? I’m thinking 4 million but could be getting confused with Steed.
Pretty sure it was £5m, Chopper. We desperately need to retain him – was thinking the same as you regards next year, even if there may be a question mark over his best position.
Sounds made-up to me. If there was a bid in January you’d have definitely heard something about it before now imo
I read about it in January. It wasn’t a huge secret, Seb.
The offer of £10m. is correct but that was for the stadium.