Everton are now ready to increase Fulham's concern that they could lose one of their most important stars this summer, having joined the race for his signature.
Marco Silva wary of upset chance against Southampton
After suffering defeat at the hands of West Ham United in midweek, Fulham have the perfect chance to respond against Southampton in the FA Cup this weekend. The Cottagers, who are on course for a mid-table finish in the Premier League, have the perfect chance to enjoy an exciting FA Cup run.
Marco Silva is well aware of the threat that Southampton pose, however. He told reporters in the build-up: "They have been reacting very, very well, definitely. You see their recent form – not so recent, because it’s been already, I think, nine games unbeaten – most of them getting the three points, game by game.
"And, of course, where they came from, in a bad position in the table, right now to be around the play-off positions shows they are in a good moment, definitely.
Fulham manager Marco Silva reacts
"They are in a moment that they can win football matches in a row. That is important, for sure gives them the confidence that they are going in the right direction.
"Coming to the end of the season, important moment of the Championship season, another competition definitely that if they are in the position they are right now, they want to come to Craven Cottage to show their quality."
It could also be the final season for Raul Jimenez in West London. Fulham are reportedly working on a one-year contract extension, but Everton could yet burst their bubble.
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The Toffees have joined the race.
According to Sports Boom, Everton have now joined the race to sign Jimenez on a free deal this summer to increase Fulham's concern that they could lose their star striker.
Everton join race to sign Jimenez
Whilst there are no doubts that Thierno Barry has made the No.9 role his own at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, Everton still have room for reinforcements. And that could see them sign the likes of Christoph Baumgartner or Jimenez.
Without Barry, they've been forced to turn towards Beto throughout the campaign and the 28-year-old has often proved to be quite the downgrade. By signing Jimenez, Everton would solve that problem.
PL stats 25/26 Jimenez Barry Beto
Minutes 1,916 1,615 1,055
Goals 8 6 4
XG 10.1 6.1 6.38
Assists 3 0 0
Even at 34 years old, Jimenez has outperformed the Everton duo so far this season. Given that David Moyes' side are currently flirting with European qualification too, they may need all the attacking depth they can get.
Fulham boss Silva will, of course, be keen to keep hold of his star man this summer. He dubbed Jimenez "amazing" back in 2023 and has watched on as the Mexican has aged like fine wine.
raul-jimenez-fulham
From suffering a head injury which could have ended his career, the Fulham man has bounced back and rediscovered his best form ever since arriving at Craven Cottage.