Claudio Ranieri says Fulham must make signings this month to ensure Premier League survival
Thursday 10 January 2019 13:51, UK
Fulham manager Claudio Ranieri says the club must sign players this month if they are to avoid relegation this season.
Fulham are four points adrift of safety in the Premier League and possess the worst goal difference in the division after winning just three of their opening 21 games.
The Cottagers are yet to make a signing this month but Ranieri admits the club desperately need reinforcements in their battle against the drop.
When asked if Fulham could avoid relegation without new arrivals, Ranieri replied: "No. I think we have to bring somebody in to survive.
"I think it will be a very good boost for all my players."
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Fulham are interested in signing Roma striker Gregoire Defrel, according to Sky in Italy, while Bournemouth striker Lys Mousset has also been linked with a move to Craven Cottage.
Ranieri has refused to discuss individual players but insists Fulham are working on a number of potential signings.
"We are looking in every direction, we will see what happens," he said. "The transfer market is open. We are ready to take something that can help Fulham.
"But I won't speak about names, I'm sorry."
Fulham suffered a shock defeat to Oldham in the third round of the FA Cup on Sunday, as Ranieri opted to play a largely second-string side against the League Two club.
The Italian admits he is upset to be out of the competition but insists the priority this season is the Premier League and Saturday's trip to relegation rivals Burnley.
"I have a lot of respect for the FA Cup. I lost the final a long time ago against Arsenal," said Ranieri, who reached the final with Chelsea in 2002.
"I want one day to return to Wembley, because when I made the final it was in Cardiff. I have a lot of respect for the FA Cup, but in this moment the Premier League is the more important thing.
"For this match, I gave the opportunity to players who are not used to playing every week. They missed a chance, I am very sad. But now we start again."
