Riise is ready to finalise the switch to Werder Bremen.
Fulham left-back John Arne Riise is close to completing a free transfer from Craven Cottage to Bundesliga outfit Werder Bremen, according to Inside Futbol.
The ex-Liverpool defender has been in talks with Bremen for a few weeks with the Cottagers telling the 32-year-old the full-back could leave for nothing if another club is found.
Riise actually has a year remaining on the Norway international’s contract in west London, but Martin Jol is prepared to receive no money for the Scandinavian.
The former Reds star has been at Fulham for two years following a £2.3m switch from AS Roma and previously spent seven years at Anfield.
Riise was part of the side that dramatically won the Champions League in 2005 and then the FA Cup a year later.
The Norweigian is known for a trademark left-boot that has scored some stunning goals down the years, but also broke ex-Leeds United forward Alan Smith’s leg and ankle when the Englishman got in the way of a Riise strike whilst playing for Manchester United.
Last season the left-back played 31 Premier League matches for the Cottagers but is now second choice to 22-year-old Matthew Briggs – who still holds the title of being the division’s youngest ever player.
Leaving for Germany would bring to an end a long and successful career in the English top tier that has seen Riise make 301 appearances and score 21 goals and provide 15 assists.
COMMENTS