PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi has been on the radar of the Premier League club for quite some time, but the two clubs have not yet been able to finalise the move. It seemed like the transfer would finally get across the line this time around, but Fulham have pulled the plug on the deal for now.
The Eredivisie club’s director, Ernest Stewart, has now reflected on the situation.
“We were, of course, already in talks with Fulham during the winter break when they came just before the transfer window closed,” he told via .
“We couldn’t bring in a replacement anymore, so at that moment, the transfer couldn’t go through. But a week later we got back in talks and the process got underway.
“That responsibility for the player was a very important detail that always played a role. And while we did get a bit closer to each other in that regard, ultimately, we remained too far apart.
“Ricardo really wanted this. It is an unpleasant situation, especially for Ricardo. We are, of course, happy that we are retaining a good striker.”
Pepi is reportedly carrying an injury, and it is unclear whether that played a part in the collapse of the move. It is still unclear why the transfer has not gone through yet. The two clubs had already agreed on a deal worth around £30 million.
The 23-year-old United States international was really keen on the transfer, and he will be disappointed with the situation. He has been very impressive for the Dutch outfit, scoring 39 goals and recording 8 assists in 96 appearances. He would have hoped to hit the ground running in the Premier League as well.
Fulham need more quality in the final third. Raul Jimenez has entered the twilight stages of his career, and they need to replace him properly. The United States International could have been the ideal acquisition. They have Rodrigo Muniz at their disposal as well, but the Brazilian has found the back of the net just once in all competitions this season.
