Fulham’s European push could alter Raúl Jiménez transfer plans

Fulham’s recent surge up the Premier League table could yet reshape Raúl Jiménez’s future, with European qualification now emerging as a decisive factor in whether the striker stays at Craven Cottage beyond this season.

The Mexico international is out of contract in the summer and has long been linked with a return home, but Fulham’s form may be forcing a rethink — both from the player and the clubs circling.

Jiménez, who turns 35 later this year, remains Fulham’s leading attacking figure and has once again earned praise for his performances this season. Despite his importance, there have been no concrete talks over a contract extension, fuelling speculation that his time in west London could be nearing an end.

A return to Club América has been a recurring theme. The striker has never hidden his desire to play for his former club again before retiring, and reports in Mexico have suggested América were planning a high-profile move this summer, potentially boosted by World Cup-related revenue.

However, Fulham’s climb into seventh place — just four points off the top four and two behind Liverpool — has added a new variable.

According to journalist Rubén Rodríguez, Fulham qualifying for Europe would significantly complicate América’s hopes of landing Jiménez.

“If the team enters European competitions, it will be very difficult for them not to renew the contract,” Rodríguez said. “That is what América expects not to happen in order to convince him.”

European football next season would represent a strong pull for Jiménez, who has repeatedly stated his desire to remain at the highest level for as long as possible.

Rodríguez also revealed that even a reduced financial offer from a European club would likely outweigh a lucrative return to Mexico.

“If after the World Cup Sevilla go for Raúl, even if they offer him half of what América give him, he does not go,” he said. “His priority is to stay in Europe if there is a major option.”

That stance underlines where Jiménez’s head is at this stage of his career: competitive level first, sentiment second.

From Fulham’s perspective, the situation is delicately poised. Jiménez’s experience and output have been key to their push up the table, but his age and contract status make any decision complex.

Having followed Fulham closely this season, their upward momentum has quietly shifted expectations. What once looked like a straightforward summer farewell is now far less certain.

Much will depend on Fulham’s league position over the coming weeks. If Marco Silva’s side remain in the European hunt, pressure will grow to open renewal discussions — and Jiménez’s options may narrow accordingly. Without Europe, América’s summer move becomes far more realistic.

Should Fulham push to renew Raúl Jiménez if Europe is within reach — or is this the right moment to plan for life after him?