Latest developments
- West Ham United are interested in signing Ricardo Pepi.
- The Hammers have already made an official bid for the striker.
- PSV Eindhoven are reluctant to part ways with their prized asset.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Romano reveals Hammers bid
West Ham United‘s search for a new striker has brought them to Eindhoven, as they've made a loan with obligation to buy proposal for Ricardo Pepi. However, PSV Eindhoven have turned down their bid.
🚨⚒️ EXCLUSIVE: West Ham submit official bid for USMNT striker Ricardo Pepi worth €25m package, loan with obligation to buy.
Understand PSV Eindhoven have rejected the proposal. 🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/l8AZkZiiXk
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 29, 2025
The story comes from Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, who seemingly has his eyes everywhere when the transfer window is open.
Value (3/5): £21m not enough for PSV
Romano underlines that West Ham's rejected package was worth £21million. With 18 goals across all competitions this season, Pepi has established himself as a key part of Peter Bosz's side. Accordingly, expect the Dutch giants to demand a lot more than West Ham's initial offer to even consider selling the striker mid-season.
Suitability (3.5/5): Fox in the box
The USMNT star is known for his sharpness inside the penalty area, as he uses his movement and clinical finishing to trouble the opposition's backline. West Ham have looked a bit predictable in the final third and could certainly do with Pepi's skill sets.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Potter desperately needs a new striker
With Michail Antonio sidelined and Niclas Fullkrug struggling to find his feet in England, Pepi wouldn't have to work too hard to cement his place in Graham Potter's side.
Logic (3.5/5): Good new challenge
Having joined PSV in the summer of 2023, Pepi has emerged as one of the most prolific strikers in the Dutch league.
However, it now seems the 22-year-old has outgrown the league and it might be a good time for him to look for a different challenge. In that regard, West Ham appear to be an ideal destination.
Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25
West Ham's first bid has been turned down, but considering how desperately they need a new striker, it is not far-fetched to assume they will test PSV's resolve once again before the window slams shut.
