Martin Jol has insisted that Fulham can see off any summer suitors for midfield pair Clint Dempsey and Moussa Dembele as he looks to build on his team around the dynamic duo.
The Fulham manager revealed during his press conference ahead of today’s home game against Norwich City that Fulham have indicated their eagerness to retain Dempsey’s services by offering the American an improved deal. The Texan has scored 18 goals in his 38 appearances for the Whites so far this season.
We want to keep him and we’ve shown that in our offer.
Jol is also keen to keep hold of Dembele, a £5m signing from AZ Alkmaar in 2010 who has been a revelation since he reverted to a deeper centre midfield role.
He is one of the most talented players I’ve seen. We’re trying to communicate with his agent.
The Fulham boss also had a stark message for any of his stars who were thinking of leaving Craven Cottage:
I always ask how many players have done well after leaving Fulham. I think there’s a lot of players in my team who could play for top-four sides, including Clint. But we want to keep him and he knows that.
