Transfer Talk: Fulham target Wieffer in search for midfield reinforcements

Feyenoord midfielder Mats Wieffer has emerged as a target for Fulham.

The Cottagers could be in the market for a new No6 amid rumours of a potential exit for Joao Palhinha in January.

And Wieffer, 24, may be the man they turn to after an excellent season so far in the Eredivisie.

Ahead of Fulham's clash with Arsenal today, we take a look at what the Dutch international could bring to Craven Cottage.

Midfield maestro

Wieffer has scored twice and provided one assist for Feyenoord this term but he is primarily in the team for his metronomic passing.

Only two players in the Eredivisie — PSV duo Joey Veerman and Olivier Boscagli — have made more progressive passes than Wieffer in 2023-24 (144).

At 6ft 3in, he is a significant presence in midfield and of a similar profile to Palhinha, who would leave a significant void should he depart Craven Cottage.

Replacing him with a like-for-like player who is four years younger could prove to be a masterstroke.

The Netherlands international is more effective in the air too — winning 2.82 aerial duels per 90 in 2023 compared to Palhinha's 1.71.

Flying Dutchman

Fulham are not the first club to have been linked with Wieffer.

The former Excelsior star has been the subject of speculation across the continent, with Napoli, Atletico Madrid, Juventus and Barcelona all believed to be interested.

As such, the Cottagers may be required to battle for a player who has earned plenty of admirers over the last couple of seasons.

Wieffer said in July: "It's very nice to hear that these clubs are interested.

"As far as I'm concerned, I want to stay at Feyenoord for another year. It's the best thing for me.

"We'll see what happens. I feel really good at Feyenoord.

"Sure, it's a good feeling when there's this news, at least you know you're doing well and you're being watched.

"You can say it's not nice, but in the end it's like that. It tickles your ego a bit."

Next step

Fulham's aim for the remainder of the season will be to build on an encouraging 2023 and climb up the Premier League table.

There have been signs of progress in recent weeks, most notably back-to-back 5-0 home wins over Nottingham Forest and West Ham.

But with Palhinha potentially on his way out in January and consistency still an issue for Marco Silva's side, signings may be required when the transfer window opens.

The addition of Wieffer would add both quality and steel to Fulham's midfield and allow them to move further in the direction of a possession-based style of play.