Fulham miss out on signing Porto midfielder Steven Defour

Over the years, perhaps, only Arsenal have been more frustrating in a transfer window than Fulham, who dawdle, drag their heels and inevitably lose out on a great signing.

It seems that even with a change in management, Fulham are still incapable of securing a deal quickly and efficiently.

Expected to join the club on a loan deal, Steven Defour, who had held advanced talks with Fulham, has been told by his club Porto that he is to remain in Portugal after the outward transfer of Lucho Gonzalez.

Talking to The Independent, Defour’s agent, Paul Stefani, said: "Steven has to stay at Porto,

"They sold Lucho Gonzalez and decided that Steven can take his place.

"We had to wait some days because to find out what Porto wanted to do and he had a meeting on Saturday night where they informed him of the decision.

"He is happy to stay but he was also happy go to Fulham. He had some good talks with them and it was a fantastic option but he has two years left on his contract in Portugal.

"Fulham made a very good impression and maybe we will see what happens in the future."

Somewhat reminiscent of a £3.5 million offer tabled for Robert Lewandowski back in 2009, where a little bit of tenacity may well have provided Fulham with a momentous coup.

This one transfer is more than just a minor set back that Fulham can resurrect in a couple of days by signing another quality playmaker before the window slams shut, it's one that shows a serious lack of intent.

Unlike fellow strugglers West Ham, who have recently brought in AC Milan’s Antonio Nocerino and AS Roma’s Marco Borriello in a bid to turn their season around, Fulham are in danger of failing to strengthen adequately in this vital transfer window – arguably the clubs final lifeline.