Fabrizio Romano says Fulham now looking at ‘immense’ PL defender as one ‘for the future’

Fulham is closely monitoring Luton Town’s center-back, Teden Mengi, as a potential addition for the future. With the January transfer window underway, manager Marco Silva is expected to bolster the squad, aiming to build on a relatively positive season so far. Initially prioritizing a striker, recent reports from Fabrizio Romano suggest that defensive reinforcements are now also on Fulham’s agenda.

Silva acknowledged the need for squad strengthening after Fulham’s victory over Arsenal on New Year’s Eve, stating, “We are looking to strengthen the squad; we need it. We believe we have a very good group of players. We missed something last summer that we tried. Let’s see if we can do it in the next month.” While the focus was thought to be on a center-forward following the departure of Aleksandar Mitrovic, attention has turned to the defensive line, especially with Tosin Adarabioyo approaching the final six months of his contract.

Fulham is now eyeing Teden Mengi from Luton Town as a potential replacement for Adarabioyo. The 21-year-old, who joined The Hatters from Manchester United in the summer, has already made 14 Premier League appearances and has impressed with his performances. With Luton currently positioned just inside the relegation zone, Fulham could capitalize on a potential return to the Championship for Mengi, securing the England Under-20 international.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed Fulham and Crystal Palace’s interest in Mengi on social media, stating, “Understand Fulham and Crystal Palace are now following Luton Town’s CB Teden Mengi for the future.” He highlighted Mengi’s status as one of the most promising young players in the Premier League, leading U-21 players with the highest percentage of defensive duels won in Europe’s top five leagues this season.

Luton Town’s manager, Rob Edwards, has expressed his admiration for Mengi, praising the youngster’s performance and versatility. Fulham, with one of the older squads in the Premier League, sees Mengi as a promising prospect comfortable in both a back four and back three. Silva’s tactical flexibility, demonstrated against Arsenal, aligns with Mengi’s adaptability, and the player’s shared agency with Tosin Adarabioyo could facilitate negotiations for a potential transfer.