Fulham transfer news: Marco Silva rules out summer exit for defender

Fulham manager Marco Silva has insisted there are no plans for Jorge Cuenca to leave the club this summer.

The Cottagers signed the 25-year-old from Villarreal last summer, securing him on a long-term deal until June 2028, with an option to extend by a further year.

However, Cuenca has already been linked with a move away after he failed to establish himself in the Fulham side last term.

Cuenca was restricted to just 12 appearances in all competitions, including just four starts in eight Premier League matches.

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Silva rules out Cuenca exit

There has been a suggestion that he could look for a regular game time elsewhere, but Silva has confirmed that he will remain part of his squad for the 2025-26 season.

"We have four centre-backs, Silva told Portuguese outlet Canal 11. "This is my best year at the club in terms of centre-backs."

"Cuenca didn't play as much last year, but we're happy with him."

In addition to Cuenca, the Fulham boss can call upon Joachim Andersen, Calvin Bassey and Issa Diop as his main central defensive options. 

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What next for Cuenca and Fulham?

Cuenca suffered an injury scare during his appearance in Saturday's 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest in Portugal.

However, according to journalist Jack Kelly, Cuenca will be ready to feature in Wednesday's friendly against Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad. 

The Cottagers will then wrap up their pre-season schedule with a game against Eintracht Frankfurt at Craven Cottage.

Silva's charges will kick off the new Premier League campaign with an away clash against Brighton & Hove Albion on August 16.