Fulham Transfer News: Cottagers Closing in on Signature of Derek Boateng

Fulham have started the January transfer window with a bang by reportedly signing Ghanaian midfielder Derek Boateng. 

Goal.com reports that talks between the London outfit and Boateng began in December and that an agreement is imminent. 

The only thing that is holding up the move at the moment is a work permit hearing for the 29-year-old midfielder (via Sky Sports). 

The Sun is reporting that the move will be a six-month loan deal with a chance for Fulham to buy the player in the summer.

Boateng currently is under contract with Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk of the Ukrainian Premier League, who are managed by former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos. 

Boateng has been with the Ukrainian club since 2011, when he moved to Eastern Europe from La Liga club Getafe. 

Fulham would become the ninth club that Boateng has played for during his professional career, with Panathinaikos, FC Koln and Beitar Jerusalem being just a few of the clubs that the 29-year-old has represented since he became a professional in 1999. 

If the Ghanaian is to join up with the Cottagers, it will have to be after the African Cup of Nations. 

Boateng has been named to the Ghana squad for the continental championship being held in South Africa from January 19 until February 10. 

When he finally joins up with his new club, Boateng will be slotted into the mix of central midfielders that includes Steve Sidwell, Giorgios Karagounis and Mahamadou Diarra. 

If it is needed, Boateng can also play the centre-back position for Martin Jol's club. 

For more transfer news on Fulham and the rest of the English Premier League, follow me on Twitter, @JTansey90.