Fulham open talks with Benfica over a move for defender Morato and near a new deal for Antonee Robinson – as the Cottagers also offer improved terms to ex-Chelsea and Arsenal star Willian
Fulham have opened talks with Benfica for Brazilian defender Morato and are close to agreeing a new contract for full-back Antonee Robinson.
Morato endured a mixed season at the Portuguese giants in 2022-23, restricted to just nine league appearances.
Having started the first four games and kept three clean sheets, a sprained ankle put him on the sidelines, not playing in the top-flight until after the new year, and then only playing twice in two months.
Morato joined Benfica four years ago from Brazilian giants Sao Paulo, and has since gone on to play 50 times for the senior team, scoring twice.
Marco Silva’s side are looking to build on an impressive first season back in the Premier League by offering new terms to Robinson, while also trying to keep hold of veteran Willian.
Willian has been offered a new deal at Fulham after an initial offer was reportedly turned down
Fulham are also close to agreeing new terms with Antonee Robinson amid Newcastle interest
Marco Silva’s side are looking to build on a 10th-place finish ending the season one point short of their record top-flight points tally
Silva is thought to have included Willian in his plans for next season, despite the player’s future remaining far from certain at Craven Cottage.
For his part, Willian is reportedly keen to stay in the Premier League, and should a new deal not be struck between the two parties he will likely seek offers from Fulham’s rivals.
The ex-Arsenal and Chelsea forward is thought to have turned down an opening offer from the west London side over a new one-year deal at the club.
The Brazilian impressed on his return to west London, playing 30 times in all competitions and offering up five goals and another six assists.
And his contributions helped Fulham achieve a sturdy 10th place finish at the end of the 2022-23 campaign, just one point short of matching their record top-flight points tally.
American full back Robinson has also reportedly been of interest to other sides, with both Marseille and Newcastle linked with a move.
However, they may find themselves perturbed by Fulham’s asking price, as Silva is believed to have valued his player at around £35m.
The Magpies and Marseille are said to be ‘actively pursuing’ the defender while Man City and AC Milan have previously expressed their interest.
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