Werder confirm Riise talks

Werder Bremen sporting director Thomas Eichin has confirmed that the club are in talks to sign full-back John Arne Riise from Fulham.

The 32-year old defender is thought to be available on a free transfer after the Premier League outfit agreed to allow him to leave.

Norwegian Riise has fallen out of favour under boss Martin Jol after spending two seasons in west London, making 75 appearances.

He has a year remaining on his contract but revealed earlier this week that he is likely to exit Craven Cottage in the transfer window.

And Eichin has now confirmed that Werder are keen on taking the Norway international to the Bundesliga, although he is not the only option for boss Robin Dutt.

Eichin told Sky: “I’m talking with many agents and we’re checking the market. Riise is certainly an interesting player and I have always said that we are looking for the left-back position.

“There has been a discussion, but that does not mean anything yet.”

Riise made 32 appearances in all competitions for Fulham last season, having previously featured for Roma and Liverpool.