Shock Belgian deal agreed

Fulham have a agreed a strategic partnership deal with Belgian top flight outfit Germinal Beerschot.

A delegation from Craven Cottage travelled to Kiel this weekend to thrash out the details of the arrangement, which could lead to players and coaches crossing the channel to work.

Fulham have been looking for a partner in Belgium to park non-EU qualified players for a couple of years until they are able to obtain UK work permits.

The Cottagers have already placed Ghana youngsters King Gyan Osei and Daniel Owusu with Germinal Beerschot, who play home matches at Antwerp's Olympic Stadium.

It is understood that no players have been identified for moves at this early stage, but one day it is expected that the Cottagers could have first refusal on any talent at the Belgian club.