Fulham is facing competition from former manager Marco Silva in a reported chase for ex-Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma. Moreover, Benfica are making their move for the free agent.
The Mali international is available after leaving Tottenham at the end of his contract this summer. His next destination is beginning to take shape.
According to Mais Futebol, Benfica have already made an initial approach for the 29-year-old. Negotiations between the parties have been ongoing since those first contacts.
But Fulham are also credited with an interest. Meanwhile, other English clubs are monitoring the situation.
Marco Silva turns to familiar face
Benfica’s interest comes with that obvious catch. Marco Silva only left Fulham this summer to take charge at Benfica. Now the Portuguese manager is attempting to beat his former club to the 29-year-old’s signature.
Silva knows Bissouma well from their years in England. He regularly came up against him during the midfielder’s spells at Brighton and Tottenham.
The Portuguese coach swapped Fulham for Benfica this summer. He is now looking to strengthen his midfield. After missing out on João Palhinha, who is on the verge of joining Aston Villa, the Lisbon club have turned their attention to other experienced options.
Fulham reunion possible
Fulham’s interest also makes sense given the club’s own midfield plans. A return to London would allow Bissouma to remain in the Premier League after eight seasons in England. He first joined Brighton from Lille before earning a move to Tottenham in 2022.
Benfica, however, are trying to take advantage of his free-agent status. Mais Futebol report that talks have been progressing since the club’s initial approach, suggesting the Portuguese side are serious about bringing him to Lisbon.
That leaves Fulham competing directly with their former manager for the signature of a player who is available without a transfer fee and whose experience in English football makes him an attractive market opportunity.
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