Fulham sent scouts to watch Koln defender Timo Hubers yesterday as the Whites prioritise defensive reinforcements ahead of their return to the Premier League.
The Championship leaders, who made certain of their place in the top flight with a comprehensive win over Preston at Craven Cottage on Tuesday night, have identified the 25 year-old as a potential acquisition with Tim Ream, Michael Hector and Alfie Mawson poised to leave SW6 this summer. Fulham will have competition for the 6ft 3in centre back, with Leeds and Crystal Palace also monitoring his progress.
The ball-playing Hubers has had a fantastic first season with Koln, making twenty appearances and scoring a single goal, after signing from Hannover in July. Hubers learnt his trade with Hannover before heading to Koln as a teenager and returning to the Reds a year later. His outstanding displays at the heart of Stefan Baumgart’s defence have been a key reason why the Billy Goats are surprise contenders for Europe.
Hubers, who impressed in a 3-1 win over Bielefeld on Saturday, could be available for £6.7m at the end of the season according to the release clause in his contract.
One area where we need beefing up. Tim Ream was outstanding at Bournemouth and ensured we at least drew though we could have nicked it. He along with Mitro our outstanding players in a good team this season.
One of the problems (and its not a bad one) of going up. We will be linked with everyone. Therefore playing our hand early. I would rather hear that we have signed someone. Not rumour.