Fulham leading race to sign Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge?

Fulham are reportedly ready to press ahead with their interest in Sheffield United midfielder Sander Berge.

Despite suffering back-to-back defeats in the Premier League, the Cottagers are enjoying a terrific season as they currently sit in seventh position in the standings.

The midfield trio of Harrison Reed, Joao Palhinha and Andreas Pereira have played a key role in keeping the the 2022 Championship winners in contention for European qualification.

However, Marco Silva is lacking further depth in that area of the pitch, choosing not to rely on the likes of Nathaniel Chalobah and Tom Cairney at the start of matches.

As a result, Fulham have been credited with an interest in improving their options with Torino's Sasa Lukic known to be on their radar.

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Nevertheless, according to TV2, the West Londoners are said to be ready to launch a big-money move for Berge over the next 36 hours.

The report suggests that Fulham are prepared to pay £20.4m to sign the Norway international, who would be allowed to depart Sheffield United for the right price.

Berge has been with the Blades since the start of 2020, contributing 12 goals and nine assists from his 87 appearances in all competitions.

Although the 24-year-old has consistently been linked with bigger clubs, injuries have played their part in a transfer not materialising.

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Having chipped in with four goals and three assists from 19 outings in the second tier this campaign, there is scope for Berge seeing out the season at Sheffield United as they bid to return to the top flight.

However, there is also a desire from club officials to boost their financial situation, with there being little chance of Berge extending his contract past 2024.

The report adds that Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and Napoli are also monitoring the situation ahead of possibly making a bid of their own.

The Magpies and Seagulls may require replacements for Jonjo Shelvey and Moises Caicedo respectively, while Napoli are open to strengthening as they bid to remain in total control of Serie A.