Fulham’s pursuit of Roma winger Justin Kluivert is stalling due to the Serie A club’s insistence on an £8 million obligation-to-buy clause included in his Premier League contract, The Standard claim.
With Manor Solomon ruled out until after the World Cup, Marco Silva and co now find themselves in the rather unfortunate position of having to replace someone who was only confirmed as a Cottagers player a couple of weeks ago.
Kluivert, a silky left-winger who loves to cut inside, would certainly help offset Solomon’s long-term absence. Talks between Fulham and Roma have been ongoing since July, though an agreement remains frustratingly elusive.
According to The Standard, Jose Mourinho’s Giallorossi side are ‘insisting’ upon an £8 million obligation-to-buy clause in Kluivert’s Fulham contract. The Cottagers do not seem quite so keen on the idea.
Will Fulham find an agreement with Roma for Justin Kluivert?
Perhaps they have concerns about splashing out a sizeable sum on a player who, while undeniably talented, hasn’t performed with any real consistency since exploding onto the scene as a teenager at Ajax four years ago, named football’s most exciting up-and-coming talent by Goal.com back in 2018.
Fulham cannot afford to dither for long, however, with Benfica and Sporting Lisbon waiting in the wings. Kluivert, the report adds, also has interest from clubs in Serie A and the Bundesliga.
“I would like to believe that Roma will take care of it,” says Justin’s father, the legendary Patrick Kluivert.
“I hope the club will provide (an opportunity to leave). Justin has his own history to write and deserves a club that will play him consistently. It’s crucial for his development.”
Fulham are also pursuing Bayern Munich’s Joshua Zirkzee, Marseille’s Bamba Dieng, Bordeaux’s Hwang Ui Jo and former Arsenal and Chelsea winger Willian. The 70-cap Brazil international is a free-agent after terminating his contract at Corinthians, and has his heart set on a return to London.
Former Craven Cottage youngster Moussa Dembele has, however, rejected the chance to return to his old stomping ground.
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