Major coup for Fulham as they sign €35m Liverpool, Arsenal target

Fulham have signed Ivorian midfielder Jean-Michael Seri from French side Nice, the Premier League club have announced.

Seri has signed a contract until June 2022, with the club holding an option to extend by a further 12 months after “beating a host of top European sides to Seri’s signature”.

“We are delighted to confirm the signing of Ivory Coast international Jean Michaël Seri on a four-year deal from OGC Nice,” read the club’s website.

The deal for Seri, who Get French Football News claims has cost in the region of €35m, is subject to international clearance, and the player obtaining a work permit.

Seri, who was believed to be interesting Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea had a €40m release clause in his Nice contract.

The 26-year-old midfielder was recently expected to be moving to Napoli, but agent Franklin Mala denied the Serie A switch on Radio CRC.

“Seri to Napoli? It doesn’t depend on us but on Napoli. I read that Napoli are signing Fabian Ruiz, so if they sign the Spaniard, it’ll be difficult to sign Seri too,” he said.

“We’re open to talks with Napoli, but there’s been nothing so far. Seri’s clause is €40m and it’s valid until July 15. After that, Nice can ask for the amount they want.”

Speaking at Motspur Park on Thursday morning, Seri told the club’s website: “It was a long day yesterday so it was great to get the move finalised.

“Now, I’m ready to get started and looking forward to meeting the squad and getting to know them, the Head Coach and his staff better.

“I’m delighted to be here, it’s a new adventure that starts for me and I’m hoping it will all go well.”

 

Jean-Michael Seri