Fulham have opened talks with Atalanta over Raoul Bellanova, with the Italian international emerging as one of the club’s options as they search for a new right-back. The negotiations have now begun, although no agreement has been reached and Bellanova is also attracting interest from other clubs in Italy and abroad. Fulham’s opening move therefore places them in the race, but certainly does not guarantee that the 26-year-old will be heading to Craven Cottage.
The interest comes against a backdrop of growing uncertainty over Bellanova’s future in Bergamo. Atalanta officially confirmed that the right-sided player returned to the club in 2024 after his earlier spell and that he had accumulated 79 appearances with 12 assists by May 2026. However, reports throughout the summer have indicated that the club could consider a sale, particularly as Maurizio Sarri reshapes the squad and considers his preferred defensive structure.
Raoul Bellanova Becomes a Fulham Option
The latest development puts Raoul Bellanova firmly on Fulham’s recruitment radar. The Cottagers are exploring several possibilities for the right-back position, and opening talks with Atalanta represents a meaningful step beyond simply monitoring the player’s availability.
Earlier reports had already identified Fulham among the clubs interested in Bellanova, alongside Premier League rivals and Italian sides. Atalanta were previously reported to have valued the player in the region of €20m-€25m, although the eventual fee would depend on the strength of offers and the Italian club’s final decision over his future.
Bellanova’s appeal is understandable. He offers considerable athleticism, attacking energy and the ability to operate as either a conventional full-back or in a more advanced wing-back role. Those qualities make him an interesting option for a Fulham side looking to strengthen its defensive depth without sacrificing attacking width.
Bellanova Transfer Competition Could Complicate Fulham Plans
The biggest complication for Fulham is competition. Bellanova has been linked with multiple clubs, with reports previously naming Tottenham, Nottingham Forest, Everton and Roma among those monitoring his situation. More recent reporting has also suggested interest from Napoli and Fiorentina, demonstrating that the Italian’s market remains active.
Atalanta’s position is equally important. The club have been considering alternatives for the right side, with Nicolò Savona previously identified as a potential replacement should Bellanova depart. That suggests a transfer could become easier to execute if Atalanta secure their preferred replacement, although the club have also indicated at different stages that Bellanova could remain part of the squad.
There is also a reason for Fulham to conduct their due diligence before making a major financial commitment. Bellanova’s 2025/26 campaign was less productive statistically than his previous season, with reports noting a significant drop in assists and concerns surrounding injuries. That does not erase his qualities, but it explains why a club negotiating for him may be reluctant to simply accept Atalanta’s highest valuation without discussion.
The situation is therefore developing rather than decided. Raoul Bellanova is under consideration by Fulham, direct talks with Atalanta have begun, and several other clubs remain interested. Fulham’s next step could be the most revealing: whether they move from exploratory discussions to a formal proposal. For now, Bellanova’s transfer phone appears busier than ever—and Atalanta have plenty of clubs waiting to see what number they put on the screen.
