Chelsea have signed a couple of young forwards in recent transfer windows, but it looks like they could target another one.
During the summer, Chelsea brought in 18-year-old Marc Guiu from Barcelona. He has made seven appearances for them this season and recently scored his first goal for the club.
The Blues also signed Deivid Washington from Santos last year, but the 19-year-old is yet to make an appearance under Enzo Maresca.
It has now been reported that Washington could leave Chelsea in the January transfer window.
PSV Eindhoven forward Ricardo Pepi participates in the match between PSV and Shakhtar at the Philips Stadium for the UEFA Champions League - League...
Photo by EYE4images/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Chelsea monitoring Ricardo Pepi
Despite having Washington and Guiu on their books, Chelsea could turn to PSV Eindhoven’s Ricardo Pepi.
According to TBR, Chelsea are one club who are watching Pepi closely. Liverpool, Manchester United and Manchester City are also said to be looking at the 21-year-old, so the Blues could face competition for his signature.
Pepi has been in great form for PSV this season. In 12 Eredivisie appearances, the American has scored nine goals.
Chelsea have recruited from PSV recently, signing Noni Madueke from the Dutch club in 2023. The winger is proving to be a success at Stamford Bridge, bagging a hat-trick against Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier in the campaign.
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Darren Bent was really impressed with Madueke during the last international break as he starred for England.
What has been said about Ricardo Pepi?
In the past, Pepi has been praised for his efficiency inside the box, something that he has shown this season.
USA legend Landon Donovan spoke about Pepi’s finishing ability as early as 2021.
Speaking to MLS Commentator Chris Wittyngham and the late Grant Wahl on a podcast, Donovan said: “He’s competitive. Forget about the goalscoring. He’s competitive. He works hard. He really grinds when he plays. And then when he gets a chance in the box, he’s absolutely lethal.”
If Chelsea do not want to sign a high-profile striker that could ruin Nicolas Jackson’s development and would prefer to bring in a deputy, then Pepi could be their man.
The USA international, who has 33 caps for his country, could provide cover for Jackson and rotate with him when necessary.