Fulham Reject Pepi Bid as Adama Traoré Nears East London Move

Key Points

• Fulham’s €30 million bid for PSV striker Ricardo Pepi has reportedly been rejected.
• Marco Silva has been offered a new three-year contract, per The Athletic’s David Ornstein.
• Fulham are considering replacements if Silva declines the new deal.
• Samuel Chukwueze wants to remain at Fulham; club considering a £24.5 million permanent deal.
• Scouts attended a Middlesbrough match amid Fulham’s links to midfielder Hayden Hackney.
• Kobbie Mainoo and Oscar Bobb linked with potential loan moves to Fulham.
• Fulham eyeing Moise Kean, who seeks a Premier League return.
• West Ham United — based in East London — are in advanced talks to sign Adama Traoré.
• Timothy Castagne could leave Fulham in summer to secure 2026 World Cup place.

With the January transfer window heating up, Fulham’s activity — both incoming and outgoing — is drawing major attention. The biggest headline surrounds a rejected bid for Ricardo Pepi and a developing transfer that could see Adama Traoré cross the capital to East London, joining West Ham United.

Has Fulham’s €30 Million Bid for Ricardo Pepi Been Rejected?

As reported by The Athletic FC via its official account on X (formerly Twitter), Fulham have had a €30 million bid for PSV striker Ricardo Pepi turned down. The United States international has been a long-term target for the club, having already been linked last summer.

The move signals Fulham’s determination to reinforce their front line, with similarities drawn to their previous American forward recruits, including Brian McBride. Though unsuccessful, the bid underlines Fulham’s ambition to add firepower as the transfer period opens.

Has Marco Silva Been Offered a New Contract?

David Ornstein of The Athletic reports that Fulham have tabled a lucrative three-year contract offer to manager Marco Silva, which would place him among the Premier League’s highest earners. Ornstein also notes that contingency plans are in place, should Silva opt not to renew.

Silva’s current agreement expires in six months, leaving fans uncertain about his long-term commitment. The situation could influence Fulham’s January transfer strategy — particularly how much the Khans are willing to “back” Silva without a firm commitment.

Will Samuel Chukwueze Stay at Craven Cottage?

Dean Jones revealed via social media that Samuel Chukwueze is eager to remain with Fulham beyond his loan, describing the club environment as “a perfect fit.” Italian sports outlet Calciomercato further reported that Fulham are willing to activate a permanent deal worth approximately £24.5 million.

Chukwueze’s dynamic performances have significantly improved Fulham’s attacking play. However, with the Nigerian currently away at AFCON, any formal deal isn’t expected until later this summer.

Who Are Fulham’s Midfield Targets?

Midfielder Hayden Hackney of Middlesbrough remains on Fulham’s list, according to transfer specialist Graeme Bailey, who confirmed via X that Fulham scouts attended Middlesbrough’s recent 4–1 win over Hull City. Hackney, a standout performer in the Championship, would add depth to Fulham’s central options — though his club are reluctant to sell during their ongoing promotion challenge.

Meanwhile, Sports Witness suggested that both Fulham and Everton are monitoring Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. The report claims that any potential loan would likely be finalised later in the window, giving United time to assess their midfield depth.

Could Oscar Bobb Join Fulham from Manchester City?

TalkSport reported that Fulham and Crystal Palace are both interested in Oscar Bobb, Manchester City’s young midfielder. With City focusing on securing the signing of Antoine Semenyo, Bobb’s immediate future could lie elsewhere if opportunities under Pep Guardiola remain limited.

While a loan move could boost Fulham’s creativity, internal sources suggest this potential deal is currently exploratory and not advanced.

Is Moise Kean Returning to the Premier League with Fulham?

As noted by the Daily Mail, former Everton forward Moise Kean is keen on returning to England, and Fulham have expressed interest. The Italian international has struggled for consistency in Serie A but remains a physically gifted striker with potential to thrive under the right system.

Fulham’s ongoing search for an additional striker reflects their recognition that the current squad requires more attacking depth, especially amid potential player departures.

Is Adama Traoré Bound for East London?

According to ExWHUEmployee and the Daily Mail, West Ham United — the iconic East London club — are closing in on a move for Fulham winger Adama Traoré. New Hammers boss Nuno Espírito Santo is reportedly pushing for the reunion, having previously managed the Spanish international during their time at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Nuno’s urgency, reported by ExWHUEmployee on X, suggests this deal could materialise soon. However, Fulham may delay final confirmation until a replacement is secured. With three key players away at AFCON and limited squad depth, Fulham cannot afford to weaken their bench prematurely.

If completed, the move would see Traoré relocate from West London to East London — a narrative that intrigues many local football supporters given the rivalry and proximity of the two clubs along the River Thames corridor.

Could Timothy Castagne Leave Fulham for Regular Football?

Belgian outlet DH, shared via Deadline Day Live, has indicated that Timothy Castagne may pursue a new club this summer in order to secure consistent playing time ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The full-back’s opportunities have been restricted by Kenny Tete’s strong performances, leading Castagne to weigh his options.

This potential move appears more likely to develop in June, giving Fulham the remainder of the season to retain valuable rotational depth.

What’s Next for Fulham and the East London Connection?

As the January window unfolds, Fulham’s business decisions could have a ripple effect across London football. The rejected Pepi bid shows ambition, while Adama Traoré’s likely exit heads East — further strengthening the link between Craven Cottage and East London’s footballing scene.

West Ham United, fresh under Nuno Espírito Santo, appear determined to reinforce their squad, with Traoré’s speed and power viewed as key to revitalising their attack at the London Stadium.

From Marco Silva’s contract uncertainty to prospective signings like Chukwueze, Hackney, and Kean, Fulham’s next steps could define the tone for both clubs’ second halves of the season — and offer another lively chapter in London’s inter-club football narratives.