Fulham transfer options before January deadline assessed

Fulham could still make their presence felt in the final days of the January transfer window, with recruitment staff assessing whether to act now or delay key business until the summer.

With the deadline set for 2 February, Fulham’s approach has so far been measured rather than aggressive. However, several contract situations and squad needs mean the next ten days remain important at Craven Cottage.

Fulham’s confirmed January activity has been limited and largely focused on squad management rather than headline additions. Goalkeeper Steven Benda has returned to the club after spending the first half of the season on loan at Millwall, adding depth to the goalkeeping department.

Midfielder Luke Harris, who had been playing regularly in the Championship with Oxford United, was recalled earlier this month before being sent out again on loan to Wycombe Wanderers for the remainder of the campaign.

Internally, Fulham are keen to raise the overall quality of their attacking options. Both wide forwards and central strikers are on the club’s shortlist as Marco Silva looks to add more cutting edge in the final third.

A midfield addition is also under consideration, particularly one capable of offering balance and defensive cover, though any move would depend on value and availability rather than urgency.

One of Fulham’s most ambitious targets remains Oscar Bobb of Manchester City. The Whites are understood to be interested in a deal worth around £35m, but competition from other clubs makes that move far from straightforward. If it were to happen, it would likely be concluded this month rather than deferred.

At the same time, Fulham are conscious of looming contract decisions. Striker Raúl Jiménez and winger Harry Wilsonare both out of contract in the summer. Club sources indicate that retaining Wilson, in particular, is a priority given his influence this season.

Fulham’s recruitment team have explored several options without progressing to advanced talks. United States international Ricardo Pepi was monitored earlier in the window, but a broken arm is set to sideline the 22-year-old for around two months, effectively ruling out a January move.

Evan Ferguson, currently on loan at AS Roma from Brighton & Hove Albion, has also been linked, though there is no indication of concrete negotiations.

In midfield, Fulham have looked at French defensive midfielder Arthur Atta, but a £17.5m bid was rejected by Udinese. Their €35m valuation is considered excessive by Fulham, making that deal unlikely to progress this window.

Fulham are expected to remain opportunistic rather than reactive before the deadline. If the right profile becomes available at the right price, the club are prepared to move, but there is no appetite for overpaying.

Much will depend on late-window dynamics and whether contract talks with key players progress smoothly. Otherwise, several targets may be revisited once the summer window opens.

Should Fulham push for attacking reinforcements now or trust their squad until the summer?