Fulham’s summer transfer window roared into life on Saturday night with the club announcing the capture of Harry Wilson and Paulo Gazzaniga. Marco Silva made clear in his interview with the official website on Sunday that was eager for the club to press ahead with further signings to strengthen the squad before the start of the new season and I’ve spent some time pondering whether the first team squad could do with improving before the big kick off.
You might be surprised that my first choice is another winger – given Wilson’s recent arrival. I’ve opted for the Arsenal youngster Reiss Nelson. It might seem strange in the first instance as Silva as a surfeit of wide options to pick from at present but another devastating deliverer from the flanks would help Fulham play to the strengths of Aleksandar Mitrovic, which we singularly failed to do last season. Both Nelson, a talented prospect likely to available on loan this summer, and Wilson are excellent crosses of a ball and could provide the sort of service that our Serbian talisman will thrive upon. The pair are also strong set piece takers, possess serious pace and plenty of skills. You can just imagine Matt Grimes, another rumoured impending arrival, spreading the play for Nelson and the England under-21 international feeding Wilson. If Nelson isn’t available, the club could consider looking into the likes of Marcus Edwards or Max Meyer.
There still may well be a gap in Silva’s squad for another creative midfielder and the Midtjylland man Evander may fit the bill. His technical quality, ability to influence game and a versatility that sees him able to fill a number of different midfield roles makes him a very attractive acquisition. The Brazilian has a work ethic that will see him track back effectively, cover team-mates and embark on recovery runs during transitions. His desire to win the ball back could be particularly handy in the Championship. Another skilled set piece threat, Evander is also just 23 – with plenty of time to improve under Silva’s guidance. Another midfield option would be useful and I’m sure that is under consideration currently. Other options might include Jean-Paul Boëtius, a personal favourite and longstanding Fulham target, the Euro 2020 Joe Morrell, Dutch craftsman Dani de Wit, Manchester City’s Ivan Ilic and the versatile Daniel Armartey, who could also cover centre back and right back.
Striking reinforcements are essential. Fulham certainly don’t want to heading into another season without senior back-up for Mitrovic, even if the Serbian is certain to Silva’s first choice up front. The identify of my number one choice might provoke howls of derision but I’d look into luring Wesley to London. His big-money move to Aston Villa might not have worked out, but Fulham have a good track record into reviving careers. At 24, he has time on his side and will be hungry to prove a point in England. He has excellent technical ability, can be an asset if a more direct approach is called for and is also an adept dribbler. Alternatives could include Ajax’s Danilo, Sirki Dembele – who has long been a favourite of Tony Khan – and the Hertha Berlin forward Davie Selke.
My selections are clearly quite controversial, but designed to spark a bit of debate as we look forward to the new season. Which positions would you prioritise in the coming weeks and who would you like Fulham to bring in?
If we get Grimes then a striker will do it for me. Bring in a quality, pacy striker then surely we have enough.
Not sure I agree about a winger. If Wilson is going to take one side then we have Cav or Kebano or BDR on the other. As much as I slate Cav in a central role as a winger he is ok.
Midfield with Grimes and HR is ok along with Cairney Onomah and Anguissa. If Anguissa goes then we may need another given Cairneys knees.
We’re looking good. If Grimes happens then with a striker I’d be very happy. If we can keep Anguissa too then we will walk it (can’t see it though)
A good centerhalf next to tosin would be nice
What’s wrong with playing Bryan wide on the left his crossing is better than the wingers we have while Robinson is better defensively than Bryan
A central defender with pace and one that has good heading ability for crosses. Another out and out central striker.
A good quality centre back for me.
Robinson has pace but similar to Christie on arrival in the corner flag area delays crossing and usually gets closed down. Joe Bryan far superior in crossing a ball.