Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert hopes Roma will not stand in his son Justin’s way as Premier League newcomers Fulham look to rescue the Serie A misfit, speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport.
When bursting onto the scene at Ajax a couple of years ago, a baby-faced winger with an iconic name on his back appeared to be following in his father’s famous footsteps; A one-way ticket to stardom in his pocket.
Since then, the flight to utopia has been – if not cancelled – then certainly delayed.
Kluivert Jr has gone from bright young hope to the forgotten man of Rome. Fortunately, this lost treasure could soon be unearthed once again. Dusted off and polished by Fulham; Ready to be put on display to the joy and awe of a receptive new audience.
According to Tuttomercatoweb, and backed up by The Standard, Marco Silva’s side could sign Kluivert for a bargain £8 million. The twice-capped Dutchman – who won Goal’s 2018 Nxt Gen award ahead of Phil Foden, Jadon Sancho and Gianluigi Donnarumma – could even arrive on loan, with an option-to-buy clause included in his Fulham contract.
Justin Kluivert could leave Roma for Fulham
“I would like to believe that Roma will take care of it,” said Kluivert Sr when asked about the prospects of a late-summer move away from the Stadio Olimpico for his still-baby-faced son.
“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.”
First-team opportunities will certainly be easier to come by at Fulham. Especially with Manor Solomon ruled out for an extended period of time through injury.
Harry Wilson is also unavailable, though Kluivert is likely to be utilised by Silva on the left-hand side, where he can cut in onto his right foot to often devastating effect.
It was from that position where Kluivert provided 15 goals and assists during his breakthrough Ajax season in 2017/18.
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