Sky Sports: Fulham launch bid to sign £40m striker | OneFootball

Fulham press on with Pepi pursuit after opening bid rejected

Fulham are preparing a second bid for PSV Eindhoven forward Ricardo Pepi after their opening offer of £26m was rejected, according to reports carried by Sky Sports News. The Premier League club have made clear that Pepi remains a priority target as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the second half of the campaign.

PSV’s stance is firm. The Eredivisie side are understood to value the 22 year old at closer to £40m, a figure that reflects both his age profile and his growing output in front of goal. Pepi has scored nine goals across all competitions so far this season, a return that has reinforced his reputation as a striker on an upward curve rather than a short term punt.

From Fulham’s perspective, the rejection of an initial bid has not cooled interest. There is a sense that dialogue between the two clubs remains open, with Craven Cottage sources indicating that a revised offer is being considered. The willingness to return with improved terms underlines how highly Pepi is rated internally.

PSV valuation underlines confidence in Pepi

PSV’s £40m valuation sends a clear message. They view Pepi as a core asset rather than a player available at a discount. The striker’s development since arriving in the Netherlands has been closely monitored across Europe, and his goal record this season has only intensified that scrutiny.

Those close to the situation suggest PSV feel justified in holding out. Pepi’s age, international pedigree and scoring consistency combine to place him firmly in the bracket of forwards whose value is expected to rise rather than plateau. One view shared within the Dutch club is that Pepi “has earned his status through performance, not potential alone”.

Fulham must therefore decide how far they are willing to stretch financially. The gap between £26m and £40m is significant, yet the market for young forwards with proven output rarely offers bargains. Any compromise may involve add ons or performance related clauses, though PSV’s preference appears to be for a strong guaranteed fee.

Picture:IMAGO

Fulham strategy points to attacking ambition

Fulham’s readiness to push forward with a second bid reflects broader ambition. The club have been deliberate in their recruitment approach, targeting players who can contribute immediately while retaining resale value. Pepi fits that model precisely.

There is also recognition that goals can be the difference between consolidation and progression in the Premier League. Pepi’s nine goals this season suggest a player capable of adapting to higher demands, even if there would be an expected bedding in period.

Sky Sports News report that Fulham remain undeterred, with one source noting that the club “see Pepi as someone who can grow with the team rather than simply fill a gap”. That outlook explains why negotiations are ongoing rather than abandoned at the first hurdle.

Window timeline and next steps

With the transfer window moving quickly, timing will be crucial. PSV have no immediate pressure to sell, while Fulham will want clarity sooner rather than later to avoid missing alternative targets.

The coming days are likely to determine whether the valuation gap can be bridged. A second bid would represent a statement of intent, even if it falls short of PSV’s asking price. Much will depend on whether Fulham believe Pepi’s upside justifies approaching the £40m mark.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Fulham supporter’s perspective, this report is both exciting and slightly nerve wracking. Pepi is clearly a talent, and nine goals across all competitions at 22 years old is the sort of return that suggests genuine quality rather than a hot streak. The fact the club are willing to go back with a second bid shows ambition, something fans have wanted to see sustained rather than sporadic.

That said, £40m is a huge outlay for Fulham. Supporters will naturally ask whether that level of spending represents value, especially when the jump from the Eredivisie to the Premier League can be unforgiving. There is trust in the recruitment team, but also an awareness that big fees raise expectations instantly.

Many fans would argue that a structured deal makes sense. Paying closer to PSV’s valuation through add ons tied to goals or appearances would feel more comfortable, aligning cost with contribution. If Pepi adapts quickly, few would complain about the fee in hindsight.

Ultimately, this pursuit signals intent. Fulham backing their judgement and targeting a young forward with room to grow feels like a club thinking long term. If the deal happens, supporters will hope patience is shown, allowing Pepi time to settle and prove why PSV value him so highly.