Hertha Berlin General manager Dieter Hoeness has admitted he fears Fulham have beaten them to the signature of Bolton's Blerim Dzemaili.

Hoeness confirmed negotiations had been underway with the Swiss midfielder as Hertha look to replace the Tottenham bound Brazilian Gilberto.

Hertha are putting the brakes on Gilberto's move to North London so that they can find an adequate replacement, although he has undergone a medical at White Hart Lane.

Berlin bosses have identified Swiss midfielder Dzemaili as their first choice transfer target.

"I telephoned his adviser several times" confirmed Hoeness.

However, Fulham are believed to be offering the 21 year old former FC Zurich youngster the chance to stay in the Premiership.

"My hopes for signing Dzemaili are only five percent" declared coach Lucien Favre.