Throughout the Premier League this summer, there have been notable acquisitions for various teams as clubs look to bolster their ranks ahead of the 2024/25 season.
One exception to this, however, and the only exception, comes in the form of Fulham FC. But is this a concern for them?
The Squad
Fulham will feel that they have a fairly full squad going into next season. However, some names may be added to bolster the quality in a few different areas of the pitch.
The likes of Carlos Vinicius and Willian have departed the club, with Harrison Reed also linked with a move away, thus presenting areas that need to be addressed.
Fulham will also feel that they have to strengthen in the goalkeeping department to find someone to challenge Bernd Leno.
The Whites have recently confirmed new contracts for club captain Tom Cairney and youngsters Luc De Fougerolles and Josh King, therefore addressing some issues.
New contracts for the likes of De Fougerolles and King indicate that they may have a role to play in the first team, thus easing some worries over potential incomings.
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Is this unusual for Fulham?
Although the lack of business may worry some fans, it is notable that Fulham often take time to consider their transfers before making moves. Last summer, the Whites’ first signing was on July 26, and the summer before, July 25.
This consistent pattern regarding the timing of incomings suggests that there is somewhat of a thought process regarding the timing of signings.
Although this may mean that players are acquired for cheaper fees, this means that they do not get to partake in pre-season with their new teammates as much as they may like.
The signings of João Palhinha for Fulham and Joachim Andersen when he first joined the club on loan represent this. Palhinha was acquired before the club’s pre-season tour for a sizeable fee.
However, he was able to hit the ground running and become a fan favourite quickly.
Joachim Andersen first arrived at the club when Scott Parker was at the helm, and, although a loan fee was a cheap solution for the player, he was not properly embedded into the team until ten games into the season.
Throughout this period, Fulham’s defence leaked goals. However, when Andersen and Tosin Adarabioyo cemented their places in the team, their defence became one of the league’s best.
Fulham were relegated that season. However, questions may be asked about how they would have done if the centre back pairing had arrived earlier.
Furthermore, in the most recent January transfer window, Fulham left it until deadline day to acquire a winger.
Fabrizio Romano reported that the Whites were close to acquiring Samuel Chukwueze, but they eventually had to settle for Willian. Willian did not contribute with goals or assists in his most recent spell with the club, indicating that Chukwueze would’ve been a more viable option.
Conclusion
Many will believe that Fulham’s lack of transfer activity is not currently a cause for concern, due to consistency regarding the timing of previous signings. However, it is a transfer strategy that, when used, has to be used correctly.
If the previous dates are to be considered and replicated, the Whites can expect their first arrival soon.
Main Photo
Credit: IMAGO / Action Plus
Recording Date: 10.05.2025