Fulham ‘make attempt to sign player’ during West Ham United loss v Chelsea
West Ham United rejected several offers from Fulham for Vladimir Coufal on Deadline Day, according to talkSPORT.
Alex Crook reported via the radio station’s website [4 February] that the 32-year-old was only made aware of the interest after the 2-1 loss against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Monday (3 February).
The report adds that Fulham were actively trying to strike a deal while Coufal was in action.
The Athletic reported on 29 November that the right-back could have left the London Stadium in the winter transfer window as he enters the final months of his contract, but it appears the plan is to extend his stay in East London.
West Ham United reject last-gasp Fulham bid for Vladimir Coufal
In true Deadline Day fashion, London rivals Fulham attempted to pry Coufal out of West Ham in the final hours.
It remains to be seen how the Czech Republic international will react to being kept in the dark regarding the interest from Craven Cottage – however, he will play a vital role for Graham Potter this season.
While initially a full-back, Coufal has been tasked with playing in the right centre-back slot of Potter’s three-at-the-back system and has started the last two Premier League games under the new boss.
He has endured his fair share of criticism in East London, with Jamie Carragher dubbing the defender “sloppy” as he gave away possession for Jacob Ramsey to open the scoring in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa (26 January).
However, Coufal has been a stalwart in this West Ham side for years and his experience will prove key in helping Potter escape his early slump as boss.
A contract offer has yet to arrive, and he may not extend his stay beyond the current campaign – nevertheless, he has a role to play at the London Stadium this year, and Fulham will have to wait until the summer to make their move.
In other West Ham news, Stephen Warnock shares a “worrying” Irons claim as an Everton comparison is made.
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