Fulham have appointed Javier Arbeloa as their new manager ahead of the 2026-27 season, and the former Spain international is already eyeing up two Real Madrid players as his first targets. The Cottagers, currently 11th in the Premier League with 52 points from 38 games and a -4 goal difference, completed a deal for Jonah Kusi-Asari before Arbeloa arrived at Craven Cottage.
Who is Arbeloa and what does he want?
Arbeloa took charge at Fulham on July 1 after Marco Silva left for Benfica. The 45-year-old stepped in as interim boss at Real Madrid late last season following Xabi Alonso's exit, but he confirmed he wanted a permanent role elsewhere. Now at Craven Cottage, he's turning his attention to Real Madrid's bench. Franco Mastantuono and Gonzalo Garcia are both on his radar, with the Spanish manager keen to bolster his squad early.
Mastantuono made 35 appearances in his debut season at Madrid, mostly as a substitute under both Alonso and Arbeloa. The 18-year-old remains untouchable for now, with Los Blancos unwilling to sell. Garcia, though, is in a different position. The 22-year-old's path to the first team is blocked by Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior, leaving him with limited starting chances in the months ahead.
What could Fulham offer for Garcia?
Real Madrid are in a strong negotiating position with Garcia, who has a contract running until 2030. The Spanish giants are expected to demand around £30 million from Fulham to consider a sale. Arbeloa will need to move fast if he wants to land the striker before the window slams shut. The Cottagers' recent form - a 2-0 win over Newcastle on May 24 - shows they're capable of pulling off a surprise, but this deal won't come cheap.
How does this fit Fulham's plans?
Fulham finished 11th last season with 52 points, 15 wins, 7 draws, and 16 losses. Their attack scored 47 goals but conceded 51, leaving them with a -4 goal difference. With a 33-point gap to leaders Arsenal, the club needs reinforcements to push for a top-half finish. Arbeloa's links to Real Madrid could bring in talent at a discount, but the price tag on Garcia alone may stretch their budget.
Fulham's next fixture is against VfB Stuttgart at home on August 15. The club's recent form - two wins and two draws in their last five games - suggests they're building momentum under Arbeloa, but the window is closing fast. If the manager lands Garcia, it could be the first of several coups to come.
