Chelsea are reportedly in advanced talks for landing Real Madrid’s outgoing defender, Pepe. The Portuguese international is surely bidding adieu to Santiago Bernabeu at the end of the season after spending 10 successful years with Los Blancos.
As per Spanish news outlet, Marca, the 34-year-old international is having indifferences with the Real board, who are willing to offer him only a one-year extension. The Euro Cup 2016 champion believes he has still a lot left in himself and wants a two-year deal. He is out of contract at the end of the season, and a decision is needed to be taken fast.
There is no dearth of suitors in the market for him with the Chinese Super League being the prime suitors. The Far East is willing to offer him astronomical wages, but also with the options like Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain available, Pepe will surely have second thoughts.
Already 34, he could only play at the highest level for the next two years, and he has to decide whether he would spend it earning money in China, which pretty much obliterates his chances at the 2018 World Cup, or otherwise.
Chelsea have come back with a bang this season, after a forgettable season last year. Under new boss Antonio Conte, the Blues are just seven matches away from the league title, which they lead by seven points, and are in the semis of the FA Cup. With Champions League confirmed for next season, the London club is eyeing to add more talents next season.
And one of the main areas that would need early reinforcements next season is their defence. Conte has been lauded for his successful three-man defence this season, which has proved difficult to break for the opponents, and the Italian boss is looking at options as a backup to step up when the fixtures become hectic next season.
And Pepe could be a brilliant addition to the side given his volumes of experience at the topmost level. Since joining Real Madrid back in 2017, Pepe has made 229 La Liga appearances scoring 12 goals and assisting 13 times. He has won 11 major trophies during his time there. In Portugal, he has 82 national caps since making his debut in November 2007.
At 188cm, Pepe would fit the Premier League physical requirements quite perfectly. His big frame blended with his brilliant passing makes him an unparalleled talent in his position, and Chelsea could challenge for a bigger trophy with him by their side.
