Oliver Glasner Emerges as Fulham's Dream Successor to Benfica-Bound Marco Silva

Fulham have launched a stunning raid for Oliver Glasner as they look to replace Benfica-bound Marco Silva and kick-start a bold new era at Craven Cottage, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

The West London club have wasted no time drawing up a shortlist after Silva agreed a deal in principle to become Benfica's new manager following José Mourinho's blockbuster move to Real Madrid.

Silva's departure ends months of speculation over his future. With his contract due to expire at the end of June, Fulham made a determined effort to keep hold of the Portuguese boss, tabling a lucrative new three-year contract.

But despite the club's best efforts, Silva has chosen to return home and take charge of one of Portugal's biggest clubs, leaving Fulham facing one of the most important managerial appointments in recent years.

The 48-year-old leaves with his reputation enhanced after guiding Fulham to Premier League finishes of 10th, 13th and 11th. 

He transformed the Cottagers into an established top-flight side, but the club's owners believe the time is right to push for even bigger ambitions.

And that is where Glasner comes in.

DREAM REPLACEMENT

The Austrian has emerged as Fulham's dream candidate after building a formidable reputation during his hugely successful spell at Crystal Palace.

In just over two years at Selhurst Park, Glasner turned Palace from Premier League also-rans into genuine trophy winners. 

He delivered FA Cup glory and signed off spectacularly by leading the Eagles to UEFA Conference League success last week.

That European triumph represented the second major trophy of Glasner's managerial career in less than three years and underlined why he is regarded as one of the brightest coaching talents in the game.

His exciting attacking style, tactical intelligence and proven ability to improve players have attracted admirers across Europe, with Fulham now hoping they can persuade him to stay in London and take charge at Craven Cottage.

Club insiders believe Glasner possesses the winning mentality required to help Fulham break into the race for European qualification and establish themselves among the Premier League's upper tier.

SURPRISE

His availability came as a surprise to many after he announced his departure from Palace earlier this month.

However, the decision was not a sudden one. Glasner informed Palace chairman Steve Parish as far back as October that he would not be signing a new contract and intended to leave at the end of the campaign.

In an emotional farewell letter to supporters, he reflected on his time in South London and the bond he had built with the club.

"It's hard to explain how I feel leaving Crystal Palace after the last two years," Glasner wrote.

Those words appeared to close a remarkable chapter at Selhurst Park.

But with Silva heading for Benfica and Fulham searching for a statement appointment, Glasner could be preparing to write an exciting new chapter just a few miles across the capital.