da dobrowin： Fulham are eyeing a ‘shock’ move for Preston North End midfielder Ben Whiteman as Marco Silva looks for midfield reinforcements at Craven Cottage.

The Lowdown: Fulham flying…

da roleta： The Cottagers boss has enjoyed a stellar campaign back in the Premier League, guiding the west Londoners to seventh in the table and just two points off a Europa League place.

With a win against Spurs on Monday, Fulham could even leapfrog Antonio Conte’s side into fifth – a victory which would highlight their deserved top-flight status after winning automatic promotion last year.

A very impressive post-World Cup run has seen Silva’s side clinch four wins out of their last five in the league, and it took a Champions League-chasing Newcastle to end their winning streak last Sunday with a stoppage time goal.

Despite the Cottagers’ electric form, it is believed that they want to upgrade their options in central midfield, leading Fulham to consider a move for Abdoulaye Doucoure.

The Latest: Fulham eyeing ‘shock’ Whiteman move…

According to The Sun, it appears that Fulham have a ‘cheaper alternative’ in mind to the Everton ace in Preston midfielder Whiteman.

It is believed that the Cottagers are eyeing a ‘shock’ move for the 26-year-old as Fulham surprisingly shortlist the £5m man as a new target.

Fulham also apparently ‘know’ that he would ‘jump at the chance’ to make a move to the top flight.

The Verdict: Good option?

The League One-winning midfielder could come as a solid option for Silva if the Fulham boss wishes to add more depth to his midfield before January 31.

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As per WhoScored, Whiteman stands out as a key player at Deepdale, starting 24 Championship matches this season and playing their fourth-highest amount of league minutes. The former Manchester United trainee also ranks in Preston’s top four overall performers and top three for interceptions made and tackles won per 90.

A defensive midfielder, Whiteman can also contribute going forward, having scored two goals with a further two assists added to his record.

The Englishman would also add to Silva’s homegrown roster, and for £5m, it is a fairly low-risk move financially.