Kenny Tete has opened up on his future at Fulham as the Premier League newcomers close in on a deal to bring Kevin Mbabu to Craven Cottage from VFL Wolfsburg, speaking to Ajax’s official website.
After starting just 15 out of a potential 46 games as Marco Silva’s side cruised to the Championship title in 2021/22, things are not going to get any easier for the 26-year-old Netherlands international.
Neco Williams might have gone – joining Nottingham Forest in a £17 million deal on Monday – but Fulham will now to bring in yet more competition for the right-back berth in the shape of former Newcastle United youngster Mbabu.
According to the Standard, talks between Fulham and Wolfsburg are ‘advanced’. The aggressive, adventurous Mbabu will join for a cut-price £5 million with just one year left on his contract.
Kenny Tete out, Kevin Mbabu in at Fulham?
But where does this leave Tete? Well, don’t expect the former Lyon man to accept defeat so readily. Clearly, Tete is not one to walk away from a fight.
“I don’t necessarily need to leave,” he says, Mbabu’s impending arrival.
“I am happy and my family is happy too. I firmly believe that you get what you deserve. First, train well for a week and then play a good match. Then do that for a month. Then I know that things can come your way.”
Tete started his career at Ajax before moving on to France in the summer of 2017. Understandably – given that he did not win a single trophy during his time at the Johan Cruyff Arena – the Amsterdam-born defender feels he has unfinished business at his hometown club.
“I would like to return to Ajax one day,” Tete adds. “It is the place where I played football for eleven years and where I experienced many beautiful moments.
“I have so many memories here, this is my club. This is my home. There have often been times when I (could have gone) to another club in the Netherlands.
“I could, but I never would, because this is my club and my city.”
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