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Yves Bissouma unlikely to join Fulham this year despite training
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- Yves Bissouma unlikely to join Fulham this year despite training
(Reuters)
Yves Bissouma is unlikely to become a Fulham player this summer, despite training at Motspur Park this summer, according to reports.
The Mali international has been training with the Cottagers ever since he was released by Tottenham as he awaits his next move.
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And it was previously reported by Sky Sports that there was interest in Fulham signing Bissouma as a free agent this summer.
But, according to The Sun , that is no longer the case and, although Bissouma has been training with the Fulham squad, he will not be plying his trade at Craven Cottage next season.
The deal appeared to make sense for all parties, with Bissouma looking to continue in the Premier League and Fulham looking to add more depth to their squad.
His wages at Tottenham of £55,000 a week seemed to fit into the structure at Fulham but it would appear that the decision has been made between Alvaro Arbeloa, his coaching staff and Tony Khan not to offer Bissouma a contract.
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Bissouma has significant experience in the Premier League with both Brighton and Tottenham, which was another reason a deal made sense after Fulham lost both Harry Wilson and Raul Jimenez , two of their most experienced players last season.
But the Cottagers are looking at many other avenues for potential midfield additions, including Cesar Palacios of Real Madrid .
It also remains to be seen how many of their current midfield depart, with Harrison Reed and Sander Berge both possibilities to exit this summer.
Reed has a year left on his contract but could be deemed surplus to requirements, while Berge is reportedly wanted by Manchester United as they look to finish their midfield rebuild.
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Arbeloa is expected to play a similar formation to the one that had mixed results at Real Madrid, with a 4-3-3 that contains split No. 8s and a traditional No. 6 in the pivot in front of the back four.
Bissouma would probably be able to play in both roles, although possibly not as effectively as the likes of Sasa Lukic and Berge already, while Palacios would suit the No. 8 role perfectly if Arbeloa can get his wish and secure his services.
Fulham's attentions this summer will now likely turn to who they can bring in to replace Wilson, with several names in the mix there, while a striker who can take the mantel and score the bulk of the goals is also something the club need having lost Raul Jimenez.
