Fulham have revived their pursuit of United States international striker Ricardo Pepi, aiming to secure the PSV Eindhoven forward in a significant transfer deal.
Silva Seeks Striking Reinforcement
Manager Marco Silva is actively pushing the club to bolster his attacking options. The need is driven by the advancing age of 34-year-old Raul Jimenez and the recent return of Rodrigo Muniz from a hamstring injury, leaving the Cottagers light up front.
While the club has also discussed a move for Fiorentina's Italy international Moise Kean – a player Silva previously coached at Everton – the focus has returned to Pepi. Fulham attempted to sign the 22-year-old last summer and are now making a fresh attempt.
The Profile of 'El Toro'
Pepi, nicknamed 'El Toro', is a unique talent hailing from El Paso, Texas. Although born in the USA, his football upbringing was heavily influenced by Mexican football, and he supported the Mexico national team as a boy before committing his international future to the United States.
PSV value their striker highly, with an asking price in the region of £35million to £40m. This valuation was demonstrated a year ago when West Ham United had an offer of around £25m rejected.
Form, Fitness and Future Considerations
The American forward has maintained strong form, scoring nine goals so far this season. This follows an impressive previous campaign where he netted 17 times in 28 games, though that season was also marred by a knee injury.
The key hurdles for Fulham will be persuading PSV to sell mid-season and convincing Pepi that a move is right for his career. The striker is keen to be settled as he aims to secure his place for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Internally at Fulham, opinions on transfer targets are divided. While Kean has some support within the backroom and scouting staff, that view is not universally shared, potentially smoothing the path for a concerted push for Pepi.
