Fulham are preparing to return with an improved offer for PSV Eindhoven's sought-after striker Ricardo Pepi, after seeing an initial proposal of £26 million firmly rejected by the Dutch champions.
Fulham's Striker Search Intensifies
As reported by Daily Mail Sport, the Cottagers have reignited their pursuit of the USA international, who has been in impressive form in the Eredivisie. The West London club had previously considered a move for Fiorentina's Moise Kean, but it is understood that manager Marco Silva favoured exploring alternative targets, leading the focus back to Pepi.
PSV's Stance and Pepi's Stellar Record
PSV Eindhoven are reluctant to sell the 22-year-old forward, who they value closer to £40 million. This valuation is underscored by their rejection of a £25 million offer from West Ham United a year ago. Pepi, nicknamed 'El Toro', has proven himself a prolific scorer in the Netherlands.
His goal-scoring credentials are formidable:
- He has netted nine goals so far in the current campaign.
- Last season, he scored 17 goals in just 28 games before a knee injury interrupted his progress.
Born in El Paso, Texas, Pepi grew up watching Mexican football and even supported the Mexico national team in his youth, before committing his international future to the United States.
The Key Hurdles to a Deal
The transfer hinges on two major factors. Firstly, Fulham must find a financial package that can persuade PSV to sell their key asset midway through the season. Secondly, the player himself has a significant personal consideration. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Pepi wants to be settled and playing regularly to secure his place in the US squad.
Fulham's recruitment team are now weighing up the structure of a revised offer that could test PSV's resolve, in a move that would represent a major statement of intent for Marco Silva's side.
