Fulham close in on Gonzalo Garcia as Real Madrid negotiate transfer compromise

Fulham are edging closer to an agreement with Real Madrid over the signing of Gonzalo Garcia, although negotiations continue over the structure of the deal rather than the transfer fee.

The Premier League side have stepped up their pursuit of the highly-rated striker after he emerged as one of Álvaro Arbeloa's priority targets this summer, with reports suggesting both clubs are making progress in talks.

However, Real Madrid remain determined to retain significant control over the 22-year-old's future.

According to AS, Fulham and Real Madrid are now getting closer to an agreement for Garcia's permanent transfer.

The Spain international remains under contract until 2030, with Real Madrid valuing him at around €30 million for 50 per cent of his economic rights. A deal for full ownership would effectively double that valuation.

The report claims Fulham are prepared to spend more than the initial asking price in an effort to secure Arbeloa's preferred striker before the transfer window closes.

The Fulham head coach already knows Garcia well from their time together within Real Madrid's academy setup and views the forward as a key part of his long-term plans at Craven Cottage.

While the clubs are moving closer financially, negotiations continue over the player's future ownership.

Real Madrid want to sell only 50 per cent of Garcia's rights while inserting a buy-back clause that would allow the Spanish giants to re-sign him in the future if he fulfils his potential.

The arrangement mirrors deals Real Madrid have completed in recent years with several academy graduates, allowing the club to retain long-term control while giving young players regular first-team opportunities elsewhere.

Fulham, however, are pushing to acquire 100 per cent of Garcia's registration without any buy-back option.

The London club are reluctant to build their future around a player who could be brought back to Spain after just one or two seasons.

Despite the remaining obstacles, both clubs are reportedly optimistic that a compromise can be reached.

Real Madrid are understood to appreciate Garcia's recent development under José Mourinho during pre-season and remain keen to protect one of their most promising young forwards.

Fulham, meanwhile, see the Spaniard as a player capable of leading their attack for years to come and appear willing to invest heavily to complete the transfer.

With negotiations continuing, the structure of the agreement is likely to determine whether one of Fulham's biggest signings of the summer can finally be completed.

Talks between Fulham and Real Madrid are expected to continue over the coming days, with negotiations focused on ownership rights and the proposed buy-back clause. If a compromise is reached, Garcia could become one of Fulham's headline arrivals before the transfer window closes.