Exclusive: Fulham submit £20million bid

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Fulham have submitted a £20million bid to sign PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi, as the Premier League club look to bolster their attacking options in the January transfer window. The USA international has emerged as a key target for Marco Silva, who wants more firepower to support Fulham’s push up the table and reduce the team’s reliance on their current striking options.

Pepi, 22, joined PSV in 2023 and has impressed in the Eredivisie and Europe, earning a reputation as one of the most promising young forwards in Europe. His form for both club and country has attracted interest from several sides, but Fulham have moved decisively with an official offer worth around £20million.

However, PSV’s response to the opening bid has been negative, with the Dutch giants rejecting Fulham’s proposal. The Dutch league leaders are under no pressure to sell and are determined to keep their squad intact as they chase domestic honours and continue their European campaign. PSV view Pepi as an important part of their plans and are reluctant to weaken their squad mid-season.

Sources indicate that PSV would only consider a sale if Fulham return with a significantly improved offer that better reflects their valuation of the American striker. The club believe Pepi’s potential, current performances and long-term contract justify a higher fee than the one currently on the table.

For Fulham, the rejection represents a setback but not necessarily the end of their pursuit. The London club are now weighing up whether to increase their bid in an attempt to persuade PSV to sell, with the player understood to be open to a move to the Premier League. The situation is expected to develop quickly as the January window progresses, with Fulham keen to strengthen their squad and PSV holding firm on their valuation.