A previous Fulham target has just been made available for transfer, according to a recent report.
Fulham look set to finish in mid-table this term and have firmly consolidated themselves as a Premier League club following promotion in 2022.
As the season draws to a close, transfer rumours are beginning to hot up and they have just been mooted with a move for a young Benfica defender.
Fulham target Morato made available
It was previously reported that Fulham made an offer for Benfica left-back Morato but the Portuguese club rejected their proposal.
Now, Mais Futebol are reporting that Benfica are willing to listen to offers this summer and value the left-back at between £17-21m.
Nottingham Forest also held an interest in him, so such news could spark a transfer battle between the two Premier League sides.
Morato has made 33 appearances this term but of late, he’s found himself as an unused substitute, so it seems Benfica would like to move him on.
Fulham will be aware of their stance and that could help to drive the price down if they are to reignite their interest of course.
Morato statistics
Morato is an ‘aggressive’ left-footed defender and he can operate as a centre-back or left-back, evincing his versatility – which could be enticing to Marco Silva.
The 22-year-old ranks in the top nine per cent for pass completion rate compared to his positional peers across Europe, as per FBref.
That shows his comfortability on the ball and ability to play out from the back, so it seems he’d be a great fit for the Cottages.
Plus, he sits in the top 11 per cent for tackles, further emphasising his aggressive and proactive approach.
If Fulham can lower the asking price, it would represent a shrewd bit of business.