Nottingham Forest have been identified as race leaders in the battle for Porto winger Pepe.
The Reds’ interest in the Brazilian emerged over the weekend. Reports from his homeland suggested the club were in ‘open talks’ with the player regarding a potential move to the City Ground.
Discussions were also said to have taken place with Aston Villa, Fulham and Burnley. The 28-year-old was also said to have interest from Turkish side Fenerbahce and an unnamed Brazilian team.
But it is Forest who are said to be in pole position to snap up the wide man. Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola has provided an update on Pepe’s situation, and it appears he is keen on a switch to the Premier League.
Nicola said on his YouTube channel (via Sport Witness): “Everyone wants to know if Pepe could arrive on loan, but… Porto have already set a price and won’t accept negotiating him under any circumstances other than a sale for €25 million (£21m).
“The tendency is that Pepe, to the general frustration of Brazilian clubs, will go play in England. And the main interested party is Nottingham Forest. Pepe has also recently been the target of official offers from Fenerbahce of Turkey and Olympiacos of Greece.
“It’s important to note that Vasco was even considered the favourite to sign the player due to the presence of Admar Lopes, the new Portuguese football executive… there is no chance of this deal going through. Just like the other Brazilians I mentioned.
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“Pepe is valued at €25m, he even received an official offer from Barcelona of €45m (£38m) last season. But the deal didn’t happen and given the circumstances, including his failure to have a great season, his value has plummeted to €25m.”
With Porto said to be open to selling Pepe, the versatile wide man is expected to head elsewhere this summer. The Portuguese outfit favour a permanent transfer over a loan deal for the former Gremio player, who is reportedly keen to remain in Europe.
Pepe has two years remaining on his contract, which is said to include a €75m (£64m) release clause. However, his club are said to be of the opinion it would be ‘practically impossible’ to find any suitors willing to pay such a fee.
Pepe signed for Porto from Gremio four years ago for a fee in the region of €15m (£13m). He has made close to 200 appearances for the club and has netted 26 goals.
Forest are expected to strengthen their wide resources this summer. Ramon Sosa is in line for a move to Palmeiras and there is a question mark over Jota Silva’s future Trentside.
Additionally, Newcastle United are keen on Anthony Elanga. The Magpies tried their luck for the Sweden international 12 months ago and have come calling once again ahead of the 2025/26 season.
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