Kenny Tete in action for Fulham 2025

Kenny Tete snubs Everton and signs new Fulham deal after Silva call

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Jul 1, 2025, 7:55 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Sports Press Photo

Kenny Tete has signed a new contract at Fulham, ending speculation over a move to Everton after a deal had reportedly been verbally agreed.

The Dutch full-back held talks over a switch to Goodison Park this summer, but a last-minute call from Marco Silvaproved decisive. Tete will now remain a key part of Fulham’s Premier League plans under a manager he deeply trusts.

Tete Turns Down Everton After “Crucial” Silva Call

Everton had a deal lined up and Tete was close to joining on a free, with his previous contract expiring in June. According to sources close to the negotiations, the proposal had been verbally accepted — but never signed.

That’s when Silva stepped in.

“Marco reminded me what we’ve built here — the trust, the ambition, the team,” Tete reportedly told club insiders after making his decision.

The defender has been at Craven Cottage since 2020, playing a vital role in Fulham’s promotion and establishing them in the top flight.

Fulham’s Right-Back Problem Solved?

With Tete’s new deal now official, Fulham avoid a major defensive headache. Losing a versatile, Premier League-proven full-back would’ve forced Silva back into the transfer market.

Tete has made 98 appearances for the Cottagers and remains a fan favourite thanks to his consistent performances and leadership.

Stat Value
Fulham Appearances 98
2024/25 PL Starts 21
Interceptions per 90 1.7
Tackles per 90 2.4
Key Passes per 90 1.1

Why Tete’s Stay Matters for Fulham

Fulham are in a critical phase, looking to build on their mid-table finish and avoid another summer of upheaval. Retaining key starters like Tete sends a message: this is a club players want to stay at.

With uncertainty around Tosin Adarabioyo’s future, and João Palhinha again linked to Bayern, this was one situation Silva needed resolved quickly — and he got it.

Analyst Verdict

Tete’s u-turn is not just about loyalty — it’s about project clarity. Fulham have offered him the role, responsibility, and respect Everton couldn’t guarantee. For Silva, keeping a player who understands his system is as valuable as any new signing.

Key Insights

  • Tete signs new deal after Everton offer was verbally accepted
  • Marco Silva made a late call to convince him to stay
  • Fulham avoid losing a starter at right-back for free
  • 98-game Fulham veteran provides consistency and experience
  • Major boost to Silva’s defensive plans for 2025/26

hat’s Next?

With Kenny Tete now committed, Fulham have solved a major defensive question ahead of the new season.

Next up, Marco Silva and the recruitment team are expected to:

  • Secure depth at full-back to support Tete across competitions
  • Target attacking options to ease the creative load on Andreas Pereira

Meanwhile, Everton are back to square one. After failing to land Tete, they must now identify a new right-back target in what’s already proving a difficult window at Goodison Park.

Did Kenny Tete make the right choice staying at Fulham?

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