Bournemouth Target Fulham’s Ryan Sessegnon in Summer Defensive Shake-Up

Bournemouth are weighing up a summer swoop for Ryan Sessegnon as they look to reinforce their defence ahead of next season, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The Fulham left-back, now 25, is approaching a crucial point in his career, with his current deal set to expire this summer. 

The Cottagers do, however, hold an option to extend his contract by a further year, a factor that could complicate any potential move for the versatile defender, who can also operate further forward on the left as a midfielder or winger.

Sources close to the situation suggest that AFC Bournemouth have identified Sessegnon as a key target, with the Cherries eager to address a problem position that has lingered since the departure of Milos Kerkez to Premier League champions Liverpool. 

That exit, coupled with other key defensive losses over the past year, has left Bournemouth short of balance and consistency at the back.

Despite those setbacks, Bournemouth have performed admirably this season and currently sit 13th in the Premier League table, a position that reflects both resilience and smart management in the face of significant turnover. 

But behind the scenes, there is a clear understanding that improvements are needed if they are to push further up the standings.

Manager Andoni Iraola has made no secret of his desire to strengthen at left-back, making it clear to the club’s hierarchy that it is a priority area once the transfer window opens. 

It remains to be seen whether Iraola remains at the Vitality Stadium beyond this season. 

Big Decision Looms For Local Lad

Sessegnon, with his pace, attacking instincts and growing maturity in a deeper role, is seen as an ideal fit for Iraola’s high-energy system.

Now in his second spell at Craven Cottage, Sessegnon has re-established himself as a dependable option. 

This is his second season back with the Cottagers, and he has already made 39 Premier League appearances across his return, scoring six goals in 49 matches in all competitions.

The England youth international previously spent three seasons in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur after leaving Fulham, having first burst onto the scene with the West London side, where he famously helped them win promotion in 2018 and enjoyed a top-flight campaign before his big-money move.

However, despite feeling settled back at Fulham, Sessegnon is understood to be open to testing himself at a more high-profile club, a stance that could alert suitors. Bournemouth, though, will need to do plenty of persuading to win that race.

Fulham, for their part, are reluctant to lose a player they view as both reliable and entering his peak years. 

With the two clubs separated by little in terms of league position and ambition, any negotiations promise to be delicate.

Fulham are keen to trigger Sessegnon’s one-year contract extension, but Bournemouth believe a sizeable offer this summer could yet prise him away from Craven Cottage.