La Liga heavyweights Barcelona are reportedly tracking the progress of FC Porto winger Pepe, a target for Chelsea.
According to a report by Spanish outlet SPORT, Pepe is the subject of interest from Barcelona. The Catalan giants are scouring the market for a winger heading into the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, the Brazilian international is also a target for Chelsea, with his contract with FC Porto containing a release clause worth €75 million.
Who is Pepe?
Eduardo Gabriel Aquino Cossa, better known as Pepe, has established himself as one of the best wingers in the Portuguese Primeira Liga since joining FC Porto from Gremio in July 2021. While he has not been highly productive, he has played his part in Porto’s success in the last three seasons.
The 27-year-old enjoyed a decent 2023/24 campaign, contributing to 18 goals in 50 appearances across all competitions. The Brazilian international found the back of the net ten times while providing eight assists. Meanwhile, Pepe’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs across Europe.
Premier League bigwigs, in particular, have been interested in securing Pepe’s services for a long time, with Chelsea keen on signing him. The FC Porto winger has now emerged as a target for Barcelona. However, his release clause, worth €75 million, might complicate matters for the Blaugrana.
Big summer move beckons?
Chelsea’s interest in Pepe is intriguing. Enzo Maresca’s squad has three wide attackers, while Kendry Paez and Estevao Willian will arrive at Stamford Bridge next year. So, it is somewhat perplexing that the Blues are still keen on signing a winger. Nevertheless, the FC Porto forward is a target for Chelsea.
As for Barcelona, the Blaugrana might look to balance the books by selling Ferran Torres and Raphinha. That will compel the Catalan giants to dip their toes in the market for a wide attacker. The FC Porto winger has thus emerged as a viable target for Barcelona.
However, it is unclear if Barcelona can afford to cough up €75 million to secure Pepe’s services in the summer transfer window. For now, they are keeping tabs on the 27-year-old Brazilian international, with Chelsea also vying for his signature.
