Report: Fulham fend off Everton to keep key player in major contract twist | OneFootball

Kenny Tete signs new Fulham contract until 2028

Fulham have secured the long-term future of their right-back, who has signed a new deal running until the summer of 2028, putting an end to mounting speculation linking him with a move to Everton.

With his previous contract set to expire, there had been a growing expectation that the 29-year-old would be heading to Merseyside. Everton had shown strong interest and were confident of securing his signature. However, Fulham have now tied down the experienced defender on a three-year contract extension, reinforcing their back line heading into the new season.

Tete, who joined the club in 2020, said:

“I’m really happy to have signed, for myself and for my family, and I hope I can give more for the fans in these three years. After my first year I knew this was a family club, a really special club where I can develop. I want to be part of this group and hopefully we can push for more.”

This commitment is a boost for Fulham as they look to build on recent stability and avoid disruption in key areas of the squad.

Everton forced to rethink summer strategy

Everton had prioritised strengthening their options at right-back this summer, particularly after veteran Ashley Young was not offered a new deal. With Seamus Coleman extending his stay for another year, manager David Moyes had targeted a younger, long-term solution on the right flank.

Having considered the Fulham man their primary target, Everton had believed negotiations were progressing towards a successful outcome. Tete’s decision to remain at Craven Cottage has now left the Toffees with limited options in a market that continues to narrow as pre-season preparations intensify.

Among the possible alternatives are Kyle Walker-Peters, who is available on a free transfer, and Vladimir Coufal, who previously played under Moyes. Both players offer Premier League experience and versatility, but neither were seen as the club’s first-choice solution.

Moyes evaluating in-house alternatives

In the meantime, Moyes may look internally to address his defensive needs. Jake O’Brien, brought in from Lyon primarily as a central defender, impressed in an unfamiliar right-back role during the second half of last season. His emergence has added depth, though questions remain over whether he’s a long-term solution in that position.

Nathan Patterson is another option, though the Scotland international has been used sparingly since Moyes took charge, and it remains unclear whether he features in the manager’s long-term vision.

Fulham stabilising ahead of new campaign

The west London side have been proactive in retaining key members of their squad, and Tete’s extension will be viewed as a signal of continuity and ambition. Fulham are aiming to build on their mid-table finish and potentially challenge for a top-half spot next season.

The decision also reinforces the club’s reputation as an environment where players can develop and settle long-term — a point underlined by Tete himself in his comments. It marks a notable moment of resolve, particularly with interest from another established Premier League side intensifying in recent weeks.