Why Fulham failed to sign Fikayo Tomori on deadline day | OneFootball

Fikayo Tomori is set to be reinstated into the first-team squad at Milan, having failed to agree terms with Fulham.

As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, the English defender was in London recently with his agents to discuss terms over a move to Fulham, but the West London outfit did not manage to come to an agreement with Milan. There were no conditions to do so, as even the player could never agree personal terms with the London side.

Tomori is now back at Milanello, where he’s expected to rejoin Ruben Amorim’s squad. The Portuguese coach had made it clear to Tomori throughout pre-season that he could leave, but he’s happy to welcome him back into the fray, with the 28-year-old also keen to fight for his place at the club. This was communicated to the defender in a phonecall with the Portuguese just after the Fulham move broke down.

The Chelsea academy graduate was subject to interest from several Premier League sides, with with Newcastle United, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest having considered making a move for him before Fulham entered the fray.

That Milan did not manage to sign another centre-back is another key reason for Tomori’s quick reintegration into the squad. He’s even going to take back his #23 shirt. Matteo Gabbia’s recent issues with an ankle discomfort could even see him make the bench against Juventus on Sunday.

No need to hurry

Tomori loves Milan. He has said no to moves away from San Siro in the past, including a high-profile one to rivals Juventus, and is keen to make the most of what chances he gets this season.

Another reason Tomori doesn’t need to worry is his contract. He’s in the final year of his €4.49m-per-year deal with Milan; next summer, one can expect him to be on the move as a free agent.

Tomori attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, and while he wouldn’t have suited all of them (case in point, Aston Villa), there are several other landing spots where he could shine and resuscitate his reputation both on the club and national scenes. Next summer, when he’ll be a free agent at 29, he can expect similar interest in his services. And, in the absence of a transfer fee, who knows what more suitors he could attract.

Anshuman Joshi | GIFN