Fulham Move Into Pole Position in Pursuit of Brooke Norton-Cuffy as Everton Fall Behind in Transfer Race
Fulham have emerged as the frontrunners in the race to sign highly-rated defender Brooke Norton-Cuffy, with the West London club stepping up plans to strengthen the right side of their defence during the summer transfer window. New head coach Alvaro Arbeloa is eager to build a squad capable of competing both now and in the years ahead, and adding a younger right-back has become one of the club’s key priorities.
Although experienced defenders Kenny Tete and Timothy Castagne continue to provide reliable performances, both players have now reached the age of 30. As a result, Fulham’s recruitment team believe the time is right to bring in a younger option who can gradually establish himself while also providing immediate competition for places. The club are looking for a player who possesses both present-day quality and the potential to become the long-term first-choice right-back.
Across the Premier League, several clubs are searching for defenders with similar qualities. Modern full-backs are expected to contribute both defensively and offensively, making players capable of operating as traditional right-backs or advanced wing-backs particularly valuable. That growing demand has placed former Arsenal academy graduate Brooke Norton-Cuffy firmly back on the radar of a number of English clubs.
According to TEAMtalk, Fulham, Everton and Brentford are all monitoring the 22-year-old defender, whose representatives are actively working on securing him a return to the Premier League. However, Fulham are currently viewed as the club showing the strongest interest and are believed to have overtaken Everton in the race for his signature.
Norton-Cuffy is currently on the books at Italian side Bologna, where he has continued his development by gaining valuable experience in Serie A. Playing in one of Europe’s most tactically demanding leagues has helped improve his defensive awareness, positioning and overall understanding of the game. Bologna are reportedly open to selling the defender if they receive an acceptable offer, with a transfer fee in the region of £17 million expected to be enough to open negotiations.
While no club has yet submitted an official bid, interest is expected to intensify as the transfer window progresses and teams begin accelerating their recruitment plans.
Why Fulham Believe Norton-Cuffy Is the Perfect Fit
Fulham’s admiration for Norton-Cuffy is not new. The club have tracked his progress for an extended period and believe he has all the attributes needed to become the long-term successor to their current right-back options.
His explosive pace, athleticism and attacking instincts make him a dangerous presence down the right flank. Norton-Cuffy enjoys driving forward with the ball, stretching opposition defences and creating opportunities from wide areas. His ability to overlap wingers, provide natural width and deliver accurate early crosses would add another dimension to Fulham’s attacking play under Arbeloa.
In addition to his offensive qualities, his time in Serie A has helped refine the defensive side of his game. Competing in Italy has exposed him to disciplined tactical systems, improving his positioning, decision-making and defensive consistency.
His previous spell in English football, particularly during his loan at Coventry City, also means he already understands the physical intensity and pace of the English game. That familiarity could help him adapt quickly if he returns to the Premier League.
Everton Still Interested but Exploring Other Defensive Targets
Everton continue to admire Norton-Cuffy and previously explored the possibility of signing him during the January transfer window. Strengthening the right side of defence remains one of the Merseyside club’s priorities this summer.
However, the Toffees are also considering several alternative options as they assess the transfer market. Among those being monitored is Manchester City full-back Rico Lewis, whose versatility has made him an attractive target.
Because Everton are spreading their attention across multiple defensive targets, Fulham have been able to establish themselves as the leading contenders for Norton-Cuffy’s signature and currently appear to hold the strongest position in negotiations.
Brentford Keeping a Close Eye on the Situation
Brentford are also following developments surrounding the Bologna defender and have included him on their shortlist of potential additions.
The Bees are evaluating whether to strengthen at right-back despite Michael Kayode enjoying an impressive 2025/26 campaign, which recently earned him a new contract with the club. With Kayode performing well, Brentford may not view signing another right-back as an immediate necessity, leaving Fulham and Everton with greater urgency in the pursuit.
Meanwhile, Norton-Cuffy’s representatives remain determined to secure a move back to England, while Bologna’s willingness to negotiate has created favourable conditions for a transfer to take place during the current window.
Fulham Appear Best Positioned to Complete the Deal
At this stage, Fulham look like the most suitable destination for the talented defender. The club can offer him a genuine opportunity to compete for regular first-team football without placing the full responsibility of the position on his shoulders from day one.
With experienced players already in the squad, Norton-Cuffy would have the ideal environment to continue developing while gradually becoming a key figure for the future.
Although a fee of around £17 million represents a significant investment, Fulham view the move as one focused on long-term potential rather than acquiring a fully finished product. Given his age, Premier League ambitions, experience in Serie A and continued development, Brooke Norton-Cuffy is seen as a player capable of becoming an important part of Fulham’s defence for many years if the transfer is completed.
