Fulham have announced the signing of Fode Ballo-Toure on a season-long loan, having completed the paperwork late last night. In the end, it was the best move available for all of the parties.
AC Milan had been in talks with Fulham during the summer over a permanent deal and they even had an agreement in principle. However, Ballo-Toure rejected the destination up until yesterday, which prompted the loan switch.
On their website, Fulham have confirmed the signing of the Senegalese international: “The Club is delighted to confirm the arrival of Fodé Ballo-Touré from AC Milan. A 26-year-old left-back, Ballo-Touré has signed on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 season,” the statement read.
The English side are expected to cover the player’s entire salary (only €1m per season net) and this will save Milan some money for the current season. It remains to be seen if a permanent deal will be worked out with Fulham after the loan, but the player is not expected to return to San Siro.
Milan have decided to rely on Alessandro Florenzi and the youngster Davide Bartesaghi as backups for the left-back role this season, hence why they didn’t bring in a left-back.
Milan have now also confirmed the exit on their website.
