FULHAM “remain keen” on signing Harry Arter to a permanent deal, according to a report by the Evening Standard.

It had been understood the Cottagers had an obligation to purchase the midfielder on certain performance-based criteria, including whether they sealed promotion to the Premier League.

But the Daily Echo now understands the Republic of Ireland international also had to start a certain number of games for the obligation also to be triggered – which he did not.

However, the London publication claims the Cottagers are pressing ahead with permanent transfers for Arter and Southampton midfielder Harrison Reed.

Arter was not included in the Fulham squad for their 2-1 extra-time Championship play-off final victory over Brentford on Tuesday.

He also missed both semi-finals against Cardiff through injury.

The Sidcup-born ace, who made 21 Championship starts in total, is under contract at Cherries until 2021.