Fulham announce loan deal for Lyon defender Joachim Andersen

Fulham have announced the loan signing of Lyon defender Joachim Andersen, who will remain at Craven Cottage for the rest of the season.

The 24-year-old, who featured in the Champions League last season, will add mettle to a leaky Fulham defence.

He told the club’s official website: “I’m really happy to make this move. I’m looking forward to playing in the Premier League and playing for a nice club like Fulham.

“It’s a league I’ve been following since I was a child and it’s a big, big dream to play in the Premier League, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Fulham owner Tony Khan, meanwhile, said: “I’m thrilled to announce the arrival of defender Joachim Andersen to Fulham Football Club on a season-long loan from Olympique Lyonnais.

“Joachim has gained experience and built his reputation throughout top leagues in Europe, playing in Eredivisie, Serie A, and Ligue 1, and this past year at the highest level in Champions League.

“He was a top target for us this summer, we worked hard to bring him here, and it’s so great that he’s joining us and that he wants to help us fight to maintain our status in the Premier League! Come on Fulham!”

Andersen hoping to improve Fulham defence

Andersen’s signing comes after Khan controversially declared on Twitter that he was keen to sign more defenders.

Indeed Fulham have conceded 10 goals in their four Premier League games so far this season.

What’s more, Scott Parker’s men conceded three to Brentford in last week’s Carabao Cup tie.

As such, the Cottagers are yet to claim a point in the top flight this season, but they did improve somewhat against Wolves on Sunday.

Parker changed his back four, with Antonee Robinson making his Premier League debut. However their opponents continued to dominate proceedings at Molineux.