Although the recent buy of Oumar Niasse has been effective for Marco Silva up front, Hull have otherwise been very poor in front of goal. Things were supposed to improve with star striker Abel Hernandez returning to the squad after a long injury, but their heavy defeat away at Craven Cottage indicates that a lot of improvement is still needed.
The Tigers have managed to score just 20 goals in 22 games so far, which is not even a goal per game and Silva’s options are limited at the moment. Although the return of Mbokani from the AFCON after DR Congo crashed out in the quarters would be a huge boost, the manager is looking to add more options up front before the window closes today.
And according to reports, Hull are eyeing a move for Ligue 1 side Angers forward Nicolas Pepe. With the sale of Robert Snodgrass to West Ham United, Hull now have £10million to invest wisely in the final stage of the transfer window and they have chosen to go for the player who has been on Hull’s radar for quite a long time this January.
Reports in France reveals that that the Premier League club made an offer for Pepe on Monday morning. And although the exact amount of the bid is currently undisclosed, it was previously stated that Angers want around £7.5million for the 21-year-old. The price tag is well within Hull City’s reach after Snodgrass’ sale, but they will face stiff competition from the likes of Newcastle United, West Bromwich Albion, Watford and Everton to land the Ivory Coast international.
Pepe has scored thrice in 19 appearances for Angers this season registering one assist and is a regular starter for the side this season. A winger by nature, Pepe can also play well in the striker’s role due to his neat finishing and runs on and off the ball. He tenacity in the game enables him to chase defenders and force them to make mistakes and his burst of pace really complements his style of play.
With Markovic on the left flank and players like Mbokani and Hernandez up front, Pepe could be a potent addition for Hull City. And the enormous positivity Silva has brought to the team will only magnify his performance. Pepe is contracted with Angers until 2019 but Hull have the money to tempt him.
With Hull in such a precarious position, they need to make the best use of the transfer window and seal a deal for the attacker to ensure they give themselves a chance.
