The transfer window may have closed at 11 p.m. BST on September 1. But deals were still being completed after this time, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that a “surprise deal” had been done by Fulham for AC Milan defender Fode Ballo-Toure.
Fode Ballo-Toure Joins Fulham as ‘Surprise Deal Completed’
Deal Sheet On for Fode Ballo-Toure
Romano had reported that Fulham had a “last minute” deal sheet in for the loan signing of Toure from Serie A giants AC Milan. Initially, it seemed any deal would include an option to buy, but Romano has since confirmed there is no such clause.
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Toure is a Senegalese left-back, and his surprise signing will see him give competition to Antonee Robinson, giving Silva much-needed strength in depth.
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At Milan, the defender has struggled to gain the left-back berth on a regular basis and will see the Premier League as an ideal opportunity to try a new challenge with the Cottagers.
Having made just 26 appearances for the red and black side of Milan. Toure will be keen to prove his worth in a new league and country.
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He was not part of AC Milan’s pre-season tour, seemingly making him surplus to requirements. In the 2022/23 season, he only managed 650 minutes in 14 appearances.
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The full-back is quick and covers a lot of ground. He will provide energy and width for Fulham, as he often overlaps the wide midfielder, who can drift inside to create the space for Toure to attack.
He still has two years remaining on his current deal and will not be giving up on making the grade in Serie A just yet, with a stint in the Premier League a perfect opportunity to show good form and match fitness.
Photo provided to Wikimedia commons by Christian Wood. CC by 4.0
