In a strategic move to bolster their defensive ranks, Fulham Football Club has cast its attention towards Manchester United’s Eric Bailly. This inquiry marks a significant step in Marco Silva’s quest to solidify his team’s defensive capabilities.
Mail Sport reports that Fulham, under the leadership of Marco Silva, is actively considering the prospect of securing Eric Bailly’s services. While not the primary target for the central defensive role, Bailly could emerge as a viable alternative in the remaining time before the transfer window concludes.
As the September 1 deadline looms, Silva’s determination to acquire a new defender remains unwavering. The central defensive position stands as a priority, given the manager’s pursuit of bolstering the squad’s defensive assets. With the situation surrounding Tosin Adarabioyo’s future yet to be definitively resolved, Fulham is poised to explore suitable alternatives.
Having already secured the acquisition of Calvin Bassey from Ajax earlier in the summer, Silva appears intent on fortifying his defensive roster further. Among the prospects under consideration are Benfica’s Morato and Manchester United’s Eric Bailly.
Bailly’s name surfaced in the realm of Fulham’s interest last month, introducing an element of depth to the deliberations. With a history of injury struggles, the Ivory Coast international might emerge as a pragmatic solution, potentially standing in for the preferred target, Morato.
Erik Bailly, a Manchester United acquisition in 2016 for a substantial €38 million, has found himself on the outskirts of the club’s immediate plans, following a loan stint at Marseille. The trajectory of his career at Old Trafford has taken a downturn, rendering his availability for a new chapter a distinct possibility.
Fulham’s steadfast interest in Morato, dating back to July, has been met with resistance from Benfica, who reportedly turned down an initial offer for the center-back. Morato’s aspiration to join Fulham may influence the ongoing negotiations, potentially compelling his transition if deemed mutually beneficial.
Should the pursuit of Morato yield no fruition, the contingency plan involving Bailly becomes pivotal. While the valuation of Bailly, given his injury history, is expected to undergo an adjustment, Manchester United could consider capitalizing on the opportunity to offload the player.
Bailly’s contract with Manchester United, set to conclude in 2024, features the provision for an extension by another season. This contractual flexibility could play a role in influencing his market value, albeit minimally. The Fulham camp could move forward with a firmer direction once clarity emerges on their pursuit of Morato.
In the unfolding narrative of Fulham’s defensive rejuvenation, the signing of Morato stands as the preferred avenue. However, the intrigue surrounding Eric Bailly’s potential inclusion persists until the final moments of the transfer window. The dynamics of the football market continue to evolve, and Fulham’s calculated approach to reinforce their defense underscores the tactical intricacies at play.