Fulham are closing in on the signing of Arsenal midfielder Emile Smith Rowe, with a deal worth around £35m reportedly on the horizon. The Cottagers have been long-term admirers of the England international, who has struggled for consistency at the Emirates Stadium since his high-profile switch from Palace in 2021.

Meanwhile, Marco Silva is believed to be finalising the signing of Ryan Sessegnon, the highly-rated free agent who was released by Tottenham last summer. The 20-year-old left-back enjoyed a promising start to his career at Fulham before joining Spurs for £25m in 2020.

Sessegnon’s subsequent struggles and injury woes have seen him fall out of favour with Spurs boss Antonio Conte, leading to his eventual release from the club. However, Silva is understood to be keen to bring the talented young defender back to Craven Cottage, where he will provide stiff competition for the likes of Antonee Robinson and Hwang Ui-jo.

As Fulham look to rebuild under their new manager, the signing of Smith Rowe would be a major coup. The 21-year-old has struggled to nail down a regular spot in Arsenal’s midfield since his £15m move from Palace two years ago. However, Silva is known for his ability to get the best out of players, and he may believe that Smith Rowe can be revitalised under his tutelage.

Sessegnon, meanwhile, will provide much-needed depth at left-back, where Fulham have been lacking since the departure of Joe Bryan to Burnley in 2021. The signing of Sessegnon could also see Robinson and Hwang Ui-jo competing for a place on the right flank.

Fulham are expected to announce both signings in due course, pending the completion of medicals and any other formalities. If successful, these deals would be a major boost for Silva’s squad as they look to push for promotion back to the Premier League next season.