Transfer update emerges on Fulham’s pursuit of 19-cap international

Fulham have failed to agree terms with shot-stopper Thomas Strakosha despite previously being reported to be closing in on a move for the Lazio man, according to 90min.

The Albanian is available for free with his contract at the Italian side due to expire this summer, potentially enabling the Cottagers to come to a bargain agreement with the goalkeeper as they seek a new first-choice shot-stopper.

Although Marek Rodak was a regular starter for Marco Silva’s side last term, with Paolo Gazzaniga also available as another option for the promoted side, they have been linked with several keepers in recent weeks.

Nick Pope and Dean Henderson were both thought to be on their radar, though the former’s £40m price tag may rule out a move for the Burnley shot-stopper this summer, even with the England international potentially keen to remain in the top tier to remain within Gareth Southgate’s thoughts for the World Cup later this year.

It previously looked as though that was no longer an option for him when Strakosha came along – but the 27-year-old has failed to strike an agreement with Silva’s side and the latter seem to have moved on.

Instead, they are now targeting Arsenal’s Bernd Leno, with Aaron Ramsdale looking set to remain ahead of the German in the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium for the foreseeable future.

The Verdict:

Although Rodak will feel he deserves to have a crack at being number one – Silva needs to put the team first before any individual’s interests and this is why he should bring in a new option in this area if he feels he needs to strengthen.

A man of Strakosha’s pedigree would have been useful for Cottagers and would’ve been a particularly good addition on a free transfer, enabling them to address