Fulham make first move to sign Everton target who once scored last-minute derby goal against them – Sky

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Fulham have made the first move to sign Brighton & Hove Albion striker Neal Maupay on a loan deal.

The report from Sky says that the 26-year-old forward only has a year left on his contract at the south coast club, and Brighton are keen to move him on this summer. “Fulham have held initial talks over a loan move for Maupay.

“Brighton want to do a permanent deal as he’s entering the final year of his contract.

“Maupay is one of a number of strikers that Everton are looking at.”

Maupay has been courted by several Premier League clubs this summer, with Frank Lampard holding talks with the Frenchman over a potential move to Everton.

The report from Sky also suggests that Nottingham Forest are interested in a permanent deal worth around £15m for Maupay.

This may appeal to Brighton more than a loan deal given he can leave on a free transfer in 12 months’ time.

Fulham make first move for Maupay

Since being promoted from the Championship as champions in May, Fulham have acted carefully in the transfer market.

Portuguese midfielder Joao Palhinha and former Manchester United playmaker Andreas Pereira have slotted straight into their starting line-up as the Whites remain unbeaten in the league.

The Athletic believe Fulham are still considering a forward, however it’s a difficult position to recruit for given how embedded Aleksandar Mitrovic is in Marco Silva’s plans.

Therefore, finding a striker who’s happy to play a bit-part role isn’t an easy task, and this will be a key part of the negotiations between Maupay and Fulham.

The 26-year-old isn’t the most popular character at Craven Cottage, after scoring a last-minute equaliser for fierce rivals Brentford back in 2018.

Although nothing is set in stone with regards to Maupay’s future, Everton will be hoping they can identify the right striker soon, and get a deal done as quickly as possible.

Lampard has said he wants a new forward in before the game against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, but this is looking less and less likely.

Maupay’s Premier League record isn’t fantastic, and may not be the answer for Everton if he’s likely to play plenty of games given Calvert-Lewin’s injury issues, but could be the perfect fit off Fulham’s bench.