Fulham are not telling the truth about the cancellation of the deal for PSV Eindhoven striker Ricard Pepi earlier this year.
That’s the opinion of journalist Valentijn Driessen, who believes Fulham haven’t said what really went on with the 23-year-old striker. His comments are relayed by Voetbal Zone.
Fulham cancellation
Ricardo Pepi appeared destined to join Fulham this summer following months of speculation about a move.
Fulham had chased the American striker throughout the January transfer window, with PSV electing to eventually block the deal at the end of the month.
Fulham revived their interest in the following months and a deal seemed likely. The two sides eventually agreed to a transfer and Pepi even travelled to London for a medical. Then came a ‘rollercoaster’ of emotions as the deal collapsed.
Reports in the Netherlands explained that Fulham and PSV had been unable to agree to when the deal would take place and he’d officially leave the Dutch side. That led to the whole affair collapsing, leaving Pepi frustrated with developments.
“Of course he’s been rejected”
Fulham
Valentijn Driessen, though, believes that there’s more to the story than is being told. When asked by fellow journalist Johan Derksen on Vandaag Inside, he made his opinion clear.
“Of course he’s been rejected,” he said.
“But they don’t mention that. It was all sorted. He was only supposed to go to England for a medical, and then suddenly he’s back. It’s going to be difficult to sell that lad.”
He even wonders whether Pepi will get regular playing time at PSV next season. The striker was supposed to demonstrate his ability at the World Cup this summer. But instead, he managed just 202 minutes across five games and failed to score.
The little impression he made will not have been enough to draw new suitors to the table. And it could have hurt his chances at PSV as well.
“Alassane Pléa is fit again now and seems to be making quite an impression. He might end up spending another year on the bench,” added Driessen.