Fulham want to keep Samuel Chukwueze beyond his loan spell.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Cottagers are keen to sign the Nigeria winger permanently from AC Milan. They are, however, trying to negotiate a smaller fee.
The framework is already in place. Fulham hold an option to buy the 27-year-old for around €26m.
The London club hope to bring that figure down before committing, rather than simply triggering the clause as it stands.
Fulham push to lower fee in Chukwueze deal
The loan has gone reasonably well. Chukwueze joined Craven Cottage last summer after an underwhelming time in Serie A.
His form in west London has been more encouraging, even if not flawless. A bout of injuries and a spell at the Africa Cup of Nations interrupted his rhythm.
The numbers tell a modest story. He scored three goals and added four assists across the campaign. Yet his direct running and pace gave Fulham a genuine threat down the right.
That end product, allied to his trickery, has convinced the club he is worth retaining.
Milan, for their part, would welcome the sale. The Rossoneri have leaned heavily on their loan strategy to balance the books.
Gazzetta reports those deals have generated close to €70m, with Chukwueze among the most valuable pieces.
His situation also ties into Milan’s wider reset. The club must reintegrate or move on several returning loanees this summer.
A new head coach is yet to be appointed, and the system he favours could shape who stays. A winger may suit some setups more than the back-three Milan used last season.
For now, the will appears mutual. Fulham like the player and the player has found rhythm in England. The only sticking point is the price, and that is where the next move lies.
