Everton could be handed a fresh opportunity to sign PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi after the Dutch club reportedly softened their stance on a summer sale.
As first highlighted by our friends at Goodison News, Everton have tracked the United States international for several months and have faced competition from Fulham for his signature. PSV were unwilling to sell during the January transfer window, with reports placing their valuation at around £35m.
According to Diario AS, however, PSV are now prepared to listen to offers following the World Cup after Pepi’s tournament failed to increase his market value as they had hoped.
The 23-year-old has yet to register a goal contribution for the USMNT and has been used in more than one position during the tournament, featuring on the left wing against Australia before returning to a central striking role against Turkey.
While his World Cup has been underwhelming, it does not erase the quality he showed for PSV last season.
Pepi impressed in both domestic and European competition, scoring important goals in the Champions League and reinforcing why he remains a player of interest to Premier League clubs.
Everton may have a better chance of striking a deal
The latest reports suggest it is not a release clause that has changed, but rather PSV’s valuation.
The Eredivisie champions resisted interest in January because they believed a strong World Cup campaign would further increase Pepi’s value. With that expectation not materialising, they are now said to be more open to a sale.
That could play into Everton’s hands.
David Moyes is keen to strengthen his attacking options this summer and, although Pepi is still expected to command a sizeable transfer fee, he may now be available for less than the £35m PSV were seeking earlier this year.
Fulham continue to be linked with the striker, meaning Everton may still face competition, but the changing circumstances could make a deal more achievable than it appeared during the winter transfer window.
