Ricardo Pepi’s strong showing for struggling Groningen has caught the eye of another Eredivisie competitor, as PSV Eindhoven is rumored to be targeting the American for a summer transfer.
The USMNT international has put up surprisingly strong numbers for the relegation candidates in the current season, netting nine goals while contributing three assists through 21 games since joining the club in September.
This has come after the record acquisition for Germany’s FC Augsburg failed do disappoint in his first half-season with the struggling Bavarian team.
While his impressive form for Groningen in the fall was not enough to prevent a snub for the final World Cup roster selection, it has triggered his return to the team in the current window, where he is currently training in Orlando ahead of their two upcoming CONCACAF Nations League games.
Local press outlet Eindhovens Dagblad is now reporting that Dutch powerhouse PSV Eindhoven has taken note of the American’s performances, and has made him one of their potential targets for offensive reinforcement in the summer transfer window.
Pepi scored the opening goal in Groningen’s surprising 4-2 win over PSV back in October, and the current third-place team in the Eredivisie are looking to bolster their front line after seeing star forwards Cody Gakpo and Noni Madueke both depart for England in January for a combined €77 Million.
With Augsburg having paid a reported fee of €20 Million plus add-ons to FC Dallas to secure his services in January, 2021, his price tag for a full transfer will be substantial.
However, with Pepi having excelled in spite of Groningen’s overall horrible form and likely relegation after a more than 20-year stay in the top division.
