Fulham in talks to sign Italy international and could land £18m forward too

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Premier League newcomers Fulham are in talks to sign Juventus left-back Luca Pellegrini, according to Gazzetta dello Sport, and could also sign Bologna’s Musa Barrow for £18 million. 

With Joao Palhinha on his way and Manor Solomon following, an ambitious, big-spending Cottagers side will now turn their attention to reinforcing the left-hand of Marco Silva’s already impressive-looking side. 

Despite boasting two reliable options at left-back – Joe Bryan and the ever-improving Antonee Robinson – Fulham appear to have made reinforcing that particular position a priority with Liverpool’s trip to Craven Cottage now just over a month away. 

Fulham have held talks with Alex Moreno of Real Betis, but understandably have reservations about investing an eight-figure sum on a player who will be 30 years of age 12 months from now. It could be a different story with Pellegrini, however. He is, after all, seven years Moreno’s junior. 

Fulham want Juventus’ Luca Pellegrini and Bologna’s Musa Barrow

The once-capped Italy international will leave Juventus despite making 18 Serie A appearances in 2021/22. Pellegrini’s agent, Vincenzo Raiola (nephew of the late Mino), is reportedly spearheading the deal. Fulham and West Ham have both made contact.  

Juventus signed Pellegrini for £20 million back in 2019, with Leonardo Spinazzola moving in the other direction. It is likely the two-time European Champions will hope to recoup as much of that investment as possible. 

“I’m very happy (with Pellegrini),” Juve coach Max Allegri said in February. “After a few problems, he’s got back in shape and is now reliable.” 

If Pellegrini becomes Fulham’s new left-back, he could be tasked with striking up a partnership with fellow Serie A import Musa Barrow. One of the most exciting, unpredictable forwards in Serie A, Barrow contributed six goals and seven assists last term, many of those curled home with his trusty right-foot like Arjen Robben in reverse. 

TMW claimed on Friday that Fulham were interested. And Bologna are likely to cash in on the former Atalanta starlet. That’s if they receive a bid in the region of £18 million however.