Fulham tonight prepared to break their transfer record and commence their summer spending spree after agreeing a fee for giant Czech international Jan Koller.
The 6ft 8ins striker will become the first major addition of the summer to Jean Tigana's squad as the Fulham manager bids to turn his Division One championship-winning squad into more than just Premiership survivors.
The fee, as yet unconfirmed but likely to at least double the club's current record mark of £4million paid to Newcastle for Alain Goma in March, will also demonstrate that club owner Mohamed al-Fayed means business.
The multi-millionaire has promised to continue to bankroll Fulham's march into the big time after financing their rapid rise from the lower leagues. As if further evidence was needed of al-Fayed's intentions, Fulham have beaten off the challenge of German giants Borussia Dortmund to sign the powerful hitman.
The Bundesliga club, reportedly ready to meet Anderlecht's £9.5million valuation, lowered their offer today after it appeared that Koller had succumbed to the temptation of Champions League football next season.
But Fulham managing director Michael Fiddy tonight confirmed: "After long discussions we are delighted this fee has been agreed and we now look forward to discussing personal terms with the player." -PA