According to an update by reputed Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Ricardo Pepi is the subject of interest from Fulham. The Cottagers are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a striker before the winter transfer window shuts down. So, the 23-year-old PSV Eindhoven centre-forward emerged as a target for the West London outfit.
However, the Eredivisie champions have blocked the American striker’s departure, as they did not have enough time to land a replacement. While PSV Eindhoven and Fulham had struck an agreement over a deal worth €37 million on Sunday night, the move is now off.
Ricardo Pepi has established himself as one of the most efficient attackers in the Eredivisie since joining PSV Eindhoven from FC Augsburg in July 2023. The 23-year-old has made significant progress in the last two and a half years, with his exploits also helping him in international football.
The USMNT international has been solid thus far in the 2025/26 season, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in 22 appearances across all competitions. Meanwhile, Pepi’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs. Fulham had been among the prospective suitors vying for his signature in the winter transfer window.
Ricardo Pepi has been on Fulham’s wishlist for a long time. The continued interest has been understandable, as the Cottagers have been combing the market for a striker heading into the winter transfer window. Raul Jimenez is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career. Additionally, Rodrigo Muniz has struggled with fitness issues in the 2025/26 season.
So, Fulham entered the winter transfer window wanting to sign a striker, with Pepi emerging as a viable target. Recent reports have revealed that the West London club failed with a bid to sign the American striker from PSV Eindhoven. However, Fulham recently came close to securing Pepi’s services by striking an agreement on a package worth €37 million.
The Eredivisie champions do not want to part ways with Pepi, as they have failed to secure a replacement for the former FC Augsburg striker in time. So, while Fulham may have thought they finally landed the 23-year-old USMNT international in a deal worth €37 million, they must pursue an alternative in the coming hours.
