Ricardo Pepi transfer – is the USA star what Liverpool need? Here’s the Whisper+ verdict

Latest developments

• Liverpool are the frontrunners to sign Ricardo Pepi from PSV Eindhoven.
• The United States international has attracted interest from many top clubs.
• The 21-year-old has scored six in 11 Eredivisie outings this season.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3/5): Unnamed source breaks the news

The highly-rated Ricardo Pepi could be heading to Anfield, with Liverpool currently out in front ahead of clubs such as Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid in the race for his signature.

That is according to caughtoffside.com who did not name their exclusive source when breaking the story.

Value (3/5): Double the market value considered a “no-brainer”

While no bid has been offered yet, the same source claims that the 21-year-old could be available for €25 million. They consider that a “no-brainer” for a youngster who has scored 15 times in 55 games for PSV, and 11 times in 31 USA caps.

He clearly has potential, but with a market value of €12 million, a contract until 2028 and plenty of interest from other clubs, €25 million might not exactly be a steal.

Suitability (3.5/5): Versatile forward who Slot could favour

Plying his trade in the Netherlands since the summer of 2022, Pepi will certainly be familiar to former Feyenoord boss Arne Slot, who could well be the driving force behind this interest.

A centre-forward, Pepi has experience filling in on either wing and as an attacking midfielder, allowing him to be an important utility man in a Reds attack which needs strengthening.

Upgrade (3/5): Liverpool need a specialist to replace Salah

If Pepi meets his potential, then he can provide great competition to the erratic Darwin Nunez in the centre-forward position.

With Liverpool likely to lose Mohamed Salah in the summer, they will need cover on the right wing. Even though he is a right-footer, there will be huge question marks over whether the Texan will be capable of filling the Egyptian's boots.

Logic (2/5): A move to Germany could be the better choice

With a short stint at Augsburg under his belt, a return to Germany might be more suitable for Pepi at this stage of his development, given that he has rarely shown elite goalscoring form outside the Netherlands.

Perhaps a switch to Dortmund, linking up with compatriots Gio Reyna and Cole Campbell, would be the best stepping stone?

Whisper+ verdict: 14.5/25

For that valuation price, Liverpool will be better off looking elsewhere to improve their attack going into next season.

There is no reason why Pepi couldn't make a move to Anfield work in the long term, but right now, there seem to be more logical, less-pressured options available to him.