EXCLUSIVE: Fulham target trio including Arsenal's Charlie Patino

Steve Kay

• 23 Jan 2024 06:50 CST
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Fulham are actively seeking to reinforce its squad with Arsenal youngster Charlie Patino, Luton defender Tenden Mengi, and FC Nurnberg's Can Uzan, FootballTransfers has been told.

Sources have informed us that the two players are catching the eye of head coach Marco Silva, who is hoping to conclude deals ahead of the latter stages of the season.

Uzan stems from the desire to bolster their attacking options. The Turkish Under-21 International - who has also been scouted by Newcastle, Brighton, and Everton - is viewed as a potential solution to the team's goal-scoring challenges. Raul Jimenez currently leads the scoring charts with five goals in 22 appearances since joining the South London club, but the Cottagers are hopeful of securing the signing of another attacker who can play in behind the leading man as a No.10.

The striker has enjoyed a stellar season at FC Nurnberg, having contributed eight goals and one assist in 16 appearances in the Bundesliga so far this term. The 18-year-old's impressive form has contributed significantly to Nurnberg's push for a Champions League spot. However, securing Uzan's signature may come at a cost, with Nurnberg placing an asking price of around €15 million on the teenager, we are told.

Fulham monitor Arsenal youngster?

On the defensive front, Fulham are monitoring the situation of Luton defender Tenden Mengi. The 20-year-old former Manchester United prospect has caught the attention of Fulham's recruitment staff, but prying him away from Luton may prove challenging. The Hatters are reportedly hesitant to part ways with Mengi unless they secure an immediate replacement for the England U21 International.

This poses a potential stumbling block for Fulham, especially considering the aging defence they have at the moment, with Tim Ream approaching 37, and Tosin Adarabioyo's future remains uncertain with his contract expiring in 2024.

In addition to their defensive and attacking pursuits, we understand Fulham made an early window approach to sign Arsenal midfielder Charlie Patino. Currently on loan at Swansea, the youngster has delivered impressive performances under manager Luke Williams in the Championship.

The Gunners, however, have conveyed that there are no plans to recall the midfielder from his loan spell at Swansea. While a summer move for Patino remains a possibility, their primary target remains Andre, who FootballTransfers revealed the Premier League club returned for last week.