Fulham appear to be close to signing German goalkeeper Bernd Leno from Arsenal, with a report from Germany claiming an agreement has been reached.

Arsenal's German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) punches the ball during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s German goalkeeper Bernd Leno (R) punches the ball during the English Premier League football match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park in Birmingham, central England, on March 19, 2022. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

A few days ago, West London Sport reported that Fulham were looking to tie up a deal to sign Bernd Leno from Arsenal, with an agreement appearing close.

Now, a report from Germany claims that Leno has verbally agreed a deal until 2025 that comes with an option for a further year.

The two clubs, however, have not yet found agreement over the fee.

Leno is keen to play regular football this season, and Fulham are on the hunt for a goalkeeper. It seems a good match, even allowing the 30-year-old the chance to stay in the Premier League and in London.

To confirm interest in the player, The Athletic reported this week that Fulham were still in talks to sign Leno from Arsenal.

David Ornstein initially broke the news of the talks, with Sky Sports later confirming contact between the two clubs.

The Evening Standard also then reported that Fulham are interested in a move for Leno. The goalkeeper spoke with Edu before the end of the season and they reportedly agreed he could leave.

Speaking to the media earlier in the summer, Bernd Leno’s agent Joannis Koukoutrigas confirmed the reports but insisted nothing is decided.

“Yes, Fulham is trying hard to get Bernd,” Koukoutrigas confirmed. “Very professionally. This is also true for some other clubs and shows his status.

“But as I said, for me, he is the number 1 at Arsenal and we are therefore also relaxed.”

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND: Bernd Leno of Arsenal makes a save from Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park on March 19, 2022. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND: Bernd Leno of Arsenal makes a save from Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Arsenal at Villa Park on March 19, 2022. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Kicker have since reported that PSV Eindhoven also hold an interest in signing Leno this summer.

Fulham, however, are the only club reported by reliable outlets to have actually opened talks and it seems they’re now close to winning the race.

Leno kept a first-half clean sheet in Arsenal’s opening pre-season friendly against Ipswich Town last week, playing his first 45 minutes of the team’s preparations.