Fulham defender John Arne Riise nears Werder Bremen switch

Werder Bremen are in talks over signing Fulham defender John Arne Riise

Riise, 32, has one year remaining on his contract at Craven Cottage but has been told he can leave on a free transfer.

Bremen director Thomas Eichin said: “Riise is certainly an interesting player and I have always said that we are on the lookout for a left-back.

“There have been talks, but that does not mean anything yet. I am talking to lots of agents and we are checking the market.”

Fulham lost 2-1 to Parma in their final pre-season friendly on Saturday and captain Brede Hangeland admits there is still work to do before the Premier League season starts.

Martin Jol’s side travel to Sunderland on Saturday and Hangeland said: “We did not play as well as we could but I am sure the mentality will be different when we walk out this weekend.”