Report: Fulham strengthen goalkeeping ranks with first deal of the summer

Fulham Finally Active in Transfer Market with Lecomte Deal Set to Kickstart Summer Plans

Lecomte Arrival Ends Fulham’s Summer Transfer Silence

Fulham are finally poised to make their first signing of the summer with the arrival of Benjamin Lecomte from Montpellier according to The Standard. The 34-year-old French goalkeeper is expected to arrive as competition for Bernd Leno, with Steven Benda heading to Millwall on loan.

After weeks of frustration for fans and manager Marco Silva alike, this move signals the beginning of some long-awaited transfer activity at Craven Cottage. Lecomte brings with him a wealth of experience, having played 30 games last season as captain for Montpellier. However, he was unable to prevent their relegation to Ligue 2—a chapter now firmly closed as he heads for the Premier League.

Benda Makes Loan Switch to Millwall in Search of Minutes

As Lecomte arrives, Steven Benda departs. The 26-year-old German has struggled for regular first-team football behind Bernd Leno since joining Fulham in 2023, making just four appearances. With his contract set to expire next summer, the loan move to Millwall is seen as a chance to revitalise his career.

Benda played 45 minutes in Fulham’s pre-season friendly against Sevilla, but that brief outing appears to be his last for now in a Fulham shirt.

Youth Takes Centre Stage in Fulham’s Early Summer Business

While Lecomte is the first senior addition, Fulham haven’t been idle behind the scenes. The club has focused on tying down young talent, including academy prospects Seth Ridgeon and Josh King, alongside key senior figures like Kenny Tete and captain Tom Cairney.

Ridgeon, just 16 years old, turned down interest from Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea to sign a long-term deal with the club. “Signing here for a lengthy period shows that Fulham produce young players and allow them to have the opportunity here,” said Ridgeon—a sentiment that reflects a growing confidence in the Fulham academy.

Late Movers Again – But Strategic Patience or Worrying Trend?

Fulham have become the final Premier League club to make a summer signing, reinforcing a familiar narrative of late-window movement. While some fans appreciate the club’s careful approach, others are growing concerned about a lack of urgency—especially with Silva reportedly frustrated by transfer delays.

Photo: IMAGO

Still, with Lecomte through the door, attention will now turn to other priority areas. Silva has been vocal about the need to strengthen, and supporters will hope this deal opens the floodgates.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Fulham fan’s perspective, Benjamin Lecomte’s arrival is welcome, if slightly overdue. While no one is expecting the 34-year-old to displace Bernd Leno immediately, it’s reassuring to finally see movement in the market. Lecomte has experience at the top level in France and will provide solid backup, or even cover in case of injury—something we’ve sorely lacked.

The bigger concern lies in the club’s slow pace. Every summer we seem to leave things late, and while securing young talents like Seth Ridgeon is important, Marco Silva needs reinforcements now. His public frustration is understandable. We’re just weeks away from the season’s start and have gaps to fill beyond goalkeeper.

Benda’s loan to Millwall makes sense—he needs to play, and his development stalled behind Leno. But unless more signings follow quickly, Lecomte’s arrival could feel more like a token gesture than genuine squad strengthening.

There’s still time, but patience is thinning. Fulham must back Silva properly if we’re to push beyond mid-table this year.