According to Football.London, Chelsea are reportedly set to battle it out with Arsenal as they go head to head for bringing in Pepe of FC Porto. It was also stated that the Brazilian winger would cost at least £65 million if the Blues were to trigger his release clause. With Juventus also in the race to acquire his signature, it remains to be seen if either side make a bid in January.
Pepe’s Campaign With Porto This Season
The Brazilian winger has had a slow start to his campaign this season although he has managed to produce a few impressive displays in the attacking third. He has found the back of the net on two occasions and produced four assists for the Portuguese outfit this season across multiple competitions.
Pepe has been consistent and reliable in the wide areas as he is averaging 1.1 shots, 1.3 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 1.6 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per game in the Liga Portugal. He has also been tidy with his ball distribution after completing 77% of his attempted passes in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
Should Chelsea Boss Graham Potter Bring Him Aboard?
Pepe is an excellent dribbler with the ball and can make a few driving runs with the ball out on the flanks. He has got the pace to leave his marker behind in the final third and can score a few important goals for his team when he plays with confidence. Furthermore, he has got the vision to find his teammates inside the penalty box and deliver the ball accurately to create some decent chances in front of the goal.
The 25-year-old can play at a high level for several years and has got the potential to develop further. Therefore, it seems like a good move from the Blues in going for his signature.
However, paying the £65 million release clause would not be ideal for Chelsea after spending £270 million in the previous transfer window. So Graham potter should make a favourable bid and test Porto’s resolve before going all in for the winger in January as they could certainly find other options in the transfer market for that money.
