Ricardo Pepi’s Fulham transfer collapse is not completely off the table yet, but the striker’s latest comments suggest reviving that deal may not be straightforward.
The United States international came close to joining Fulham in March 2026, with a package worth around €40m agreed with PSV. He even travelled to London for medicals, only for the move to break down late due to disagreements over the timing of the transfer.
At the time, reports indicated Pepi was left frustrated by how things unfolded. However, speaking recently to Voetbal International, his tone now feels more measured than reactive.
Ricardo Pepi responds to Fulham transfer collapse
Reflecting on his season rather than the transfer directly, Pepi described a campaign shaped by setbacks but ending on a high as PSV secured the Eredivisie title.
“Yeah, I think it was a little bit of a roller coaster. I had some unfortunate injuries, but it’s not normal to come back from two or three injuries and still perform.” — Ricardo Pepi, via Voetbal International
Despite those interruptions, he still contributed 10 goals in 21 league appearances and highlighted his Champions League moments as particularly memorable.
That context matters. Pepi is not a player coming off a difficult season or looking for a way out. Instead, he finishes the campaign with a title and a strong role within PSV’s squad.
Summer decision still open but not driven by urgency
When asked directly about his future, Pepi kept his options open without leaning strongly in any direction.
“It’s difficult to say. At the moment I’m still with PSV, so as of now, I’m back next year. We’ll see what happens. I’m focused on finishing the season strongly and then seeing what comes up in the summer.” — Ricardo Pepi
There is no clear push for a move and no indication that Fulham remains a priority. Instead, his response reflects a player in a stable position, willing to assess opportunities rather than chase them.
From the last few weeks of PSV’s season, that stability has been evident. Pepi has remained part of a successful side and continues to be valued within the squad.
However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions about where he will be playing next season.
Fulham face different challenge if they return
Fulham’s task now looks more complicated than simply revisiting the same agreement. Pepi signed a contract extension with PSV until June 2030, leaving the Dutch club in a strong negotiating position.
| Stat (2025/26) | Ricardo Pepi |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 21 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Contract | Until 2030 |
| Club | PSV Eindhoven |
source: sofascore match data – 7 April 2026
Those numbers underline his continued importance, even in a season disrupted by injuries.
Pepi’s role has remained significant when fit, and his contributions have come at key moments. That makes any potential transfer less about rescuing a situation and more about convincing both player and club of a clear next step.
Key Insights
- Fulham agreed a €40m deal for Pepi before the move collapsed late
- The striker has since helped PSV win the Eredivisie title
- Pepi does not appear to be pushing for a transfer
- His contract runs until 2030, strengthening PSV’s position
- A summer move remains possible but far from guaranteed
What’s next for Pepi and Fulham?
Pepi is expected to finish the season with PSV before assessing his options in the summer transfer window. Any renewed interest from Fulham would likely require fresh negotiations rather than a continuation of the previous deal.
PSV’s stance, combined with Pepi’s contract situation, means there is no immediate pressure to sell. Fulham would need to re-establish both financial terms and trust around the deal if they decide to return.
If Fulham return for Ricardo Pepi this summer, can they convince him this time or has that opportunity already passed?
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