Fulham ‘to sign’ Ricardo Pepi in £28.5m deal after London arrival | OneFootball

Fulham are closing in on a £28.5m deal for PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi as they look to bolster their attack.

According to BBC Sport, the 23-year-old arrived in London on Wednesday and is set for a medical at Craven Cottage, with final details to be agreed. Fulham also tried in January but PSV opted to keep him for the rest of the season.

He is expected to sign a contract running until 2031. The Cottagers want depth up front with Raul Jimenez out of contract in the coming months, the Mexican having scored twice against Sunderland this season.

Pepi, a 34-cap USA international, has 13 goals in 29 club games this term, including three in five Champions League matches. He is expected to feature prominently at this summer’s North American World Cup.

Sunderland were credited with interest in January, and Everton, Leeds United and West Ham were also linked earlier this year. Pepi has long been open to a move to England.

Eindhovens Dagblad reports PSV’s willingness to sell stems from several factors, including a desire to bank funds early and plan the summer with certainty. While his finishing is rated, elements of his off-ball work are viewed as a less natural fit for their long-term approach.

The Dutch outlet also notes the player pushed for an exit and was particularly keen on London. Once Fulham matched PSV’s valuation, the club were prepared to sanction a deal.

Source: Sunderland Echo