Real Madrid superstar Pepe, who is on the radar of Chelsea and Manchester United, is reportedly set to leave Europe for the cash-rich Chinese Super League
Spanish publication Marca have Real Madrid superstar Pepe as their cover page story with the outlet speculating that the Portuguese veteran, who is on the radar of Chelsea and Manchester United, is set to be the next big name transfer to the cash-rich Chinese Super League that has been grabbing headlines with big-money transfers.
Pepe has been one of the fine no-nonsense defenders in the present footballing era, while also producing moments of technical ability. At the age of 33, Pepe still seems to be at the top of his game. The Portuguese led from the front and played a key role in his nation’s historic maiden international triumph at Euro 2016.
The veteran has managed just 8 La Liga appearances this season, largely due to injury problems and has been in talks with Los Blancos over an extension on his current deal that expires at the end of the season. The talks have hit a snag of sorts due to the difference between the two parties on the terms of the contract.
The veteran has been since linked with a switch to the Premier League, with the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea rumoured to be interested in the 33-year-old. While Manchester United are in need of an experienced face at the back, runaway leaders Chelsea are simply looking to add to the defensive options.
And now, as per the latest reports, Pepe and his representatives have received many inquiries from China as to the player’s availability. Marca report that the player has received astronomical offers from China with the clubs offering to double his current Real Madrid salary.
Also, as per 101greatgoals, Hebei Fortune, which is managed by former Real Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini, are keen on the 33-year-old and are prepared to offer €10 million post-tax annual wages to move to China, which is more than double of the €4.5 million pay he currently earns at Real Madrid.
It would be interesting to see if Pepe would wish to keep playing in Europe, either at Real Madrid or at one of the two Premier League biggies that are interested in him, or choose to take the astronomical pay-package and move to Chinese Super League.
While the 33-year-old is not as big a name as the others Chinese Super League have been targeting and would not warrant much of a transfer fee given that he is in the last year of his contract. The veteran will add wealth of experience to any side he joins, and could turn out to be one of the best signings made by the Chinese league.
