Fulham are closing in on signing Al Musrati as Marco Silva wants a quality signing to cover the defensive midfield position.
Fulham are seemingly getting closer to signing Al Musrati from SC Braga as Marco Silva eyes the Libyan to slot in the defensive midfield role. As reported by Diario do Minho, the midfielder is one of the top assets at the Portuguese side and they are prepared to sell for a reasonable offer.
Newly promoted sides often learn a stern lesson on their return to the Premier League. Every season, at least one of the newcomers fails to break the shackles of the relegation zone and end up making the journey back to the Championship. Fulham have been found out in similar situation on numerous occasions and are prepared to make necessary adjustments.
Having a manager with Premier League experience often helps teams, and Marco Silva possesses top-flight know-how. The Cottagers struggled for relevance in their previous campaign in the top tier, and are hoping to bring in quality players to avoid a similar occurrence this time out.
The board is ready to back Silva in the market as they eye key players in several positions. Midfield seems to be a priority area for the Portuguese manager as recent links to some established and experienced stars shows Fulham’s intent in the window.
Silva is keen to secure a strong defensive midfielder capable of holding the fort in the face of quality opposition. Braga’s Al Musrati has been on their radar since their promotion to the Premier League was confirmed, and the Cottagers are now getting closer to getting their man.
Silva initially wanted someone like Nemanja Matic, who now seems to be closing in on another reunion with Jose Mourinho at Roma. Hence, the manager is looking at other solutions to fill the defensive midfield area, while keeping an eye out for cost-effective options.
Portugal international William Carvalho has been linked with a move as the midfielder enters the final year of his deal at Real Betis. However, Fulham are reportedly closing in on Braga’s Al Musrati, with a move now looking imminent. The Portuguese side were understood to be open to offers of around €15 million previously, and there is no reason for them to reduce their valuation.
The 26-year-old has been one of SC Braga’s key stars and performed consistently in the previous campaign. Al Musrati is also one of their top assets, capable of bringing much-needed funds into the club. Fulham are seemingly close to landing the midfielder now, with the star believed to be in London to sign a contract.
Al Musrati is somewhat of an unknown commodity in the Premier League, and it remains to be seen whether he can make an instant impact at Fulham. However, the London side desperately need players who could slot straight into the team and he can certainly provide that.