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In what has been the worst kept secret by Fulham this preseason, on Wednesday the club announced that a fee for Ross McCormack had been agreed upon with Aston Villa.
The Club can confirm that a bid has been accepted from Aston Villa for Ross McCormack > https://t.co/Fzd9KRsehW
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) August 3, 2016
This marks a major shift in direction for the club, having depended so heavily upon the Scot over the past two seasons in order to stay afloat in the Championship. It was apparent that McCormack was keen to leave SW6, especially after his January deal to Middlesbrough fell through. After accepting two contract extensions over the past year, some supporters rightfully feel that it was mostly about the money for the striker, but his performances continued to justify the investment.
Now, Fulham must focus on reinvestment after reportedly gaining £12 million plus add-on bonuses upwards of £2 million for offloading his services to the Villans.
Ross McCormack travelling to Midlands for medical. £12m move from Fulham to Aston Villa - could rise to £14m
— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) August 3, 2016
McCormack leaves the Cottage after compiling two of the best statistical seasons the club’s seen from an attacker. Having appeared exactly 100 times in all competitions for Fulham, he netted 42 times and assisted another 22 times. Thus, the club have quite the boots to fill.
In regards to the actual sale, this is shrewd business from Mike Rigg and the club. McCormack, who is set to turn 30 on the 18th of this month, will never have a higher value than he does right now. £12 million or more for a player at his age is great money, and allows the club to spread it across multiple new signings, if they so choose (something that many are skeptical will be done well or at all).
As of now, our strike force could be better, boasting only new signings Sone Aluko and Floyd Ayite, alongside incumbents Matt Smith and Cauley Woodrow. Aluko and Ayite have been promising this preseason, but cannot fill the space left by McCormack alone. In recent days, Fulham has been linked with several attacking options, and it is expected that a domino effect will occur once Ross’ transfer becomes official.
As for now, all we can do is wait and see as the opener against Newcastle this Friday fast approaches. Life after Ross starts now.