Fulham have reportedly emerged as the best-positioned club in the race to sign Real Betis winger Rodrigo Riquelme ahead of the January transfer window.
According to Estadio Deportivo, the Premier League side are monitoring the 26-year-old closely after his impressive start to the season under Manuel Pellegrini.
However, Betis have yet to receive a formal approach and are reluctant to lose the attacker midway through the campaign.
The Spanish club would reportedly seek around €20million before considering a sale.
Fulham emerge as leading contenders for Riquelme
Riquelme has attracted attention from several European clubs after improving his performances at Betis.
The former Atlético Madrid winger has scored three goals in eleven La Liga appearances this season.
He also struck twice against Navalcarnero in the Copa del Rey, taking his overall tally to five goals.
His form has reportedly attracted interest from Fulham and Coventry City, alongside several Serie A clubs, including Roma, Lazio, Napoli and Como.
Estadio Deportivo claims Fulham are currently best positioned to turn their interest into a potential transfer approach.
Álvaro Arbeloa's side are understood to be assessing wide attacking reinforcements.
However, Betis have not received a formal proposal, and there is no confirmation that negotiations have begun.
Real Betis reluctant to sanction January departure
Riquelme joined Betis from Atlético Madrid in summer 2025, with the Seville club paying approximately €8million for 50 per cent of his rights.
Atlético retained the remaining share, complicating the financial structure of any future transfer.
According to Estadio Deportivo, Betis would need an offer exceeding €16million to recover their original investment.
The club are reportedly more likely to demand around €20million given Riquelme's improved form and growing importance.
His contract runs until June 2030, strengthening Betis' negotiating position.
The winger is also understood to be happy in Seville and currently prefers to remain at the club.
That makes a January departure difficult, although a substantial offer could change the situation.
Fulham may lead the reported interest, but any deal would require a formal approach and terms acceptable to Betis and the player.
Key Points
- Fulham are reportedly the leading interested club for Real Betis winger Rodrigo Riquelme.
- Betis could demand around €20m, with Atlético Madrid retaining 50% of his rights.
- No formal Fulham approach has been confirmed, and Riquelme reportedly prefers to stay.
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