Director confirms: Deal between Fulham and PSV for Ricardo Pepi off

Pepi and Fulham had come to a complete understanding earlier this week regarding a summer transfer said to be valued at €36 million. Following the US forward's medical examination on Friday, PSV and Fulham were close to finalising their part of the arrangement, yet it has now collapsed, as Stewart has verified.

"Ultimately, no consensus was achieved regarding the timing of the player's handover," Stewart shared with ESPN.

PSV insisted that Fulham assume complete liability from the instant the agreement was sealed, ensuring the forward would join regardless of any potential injuries. Conversely, the Cottagers sought the option to withdraw should an injury occur.

Pepi has yet to complete a full season without sitting out multiple matches due to injuries since arriving at PSV in 2023, appearing in only 27 and 17 games over the prior two campaigns. This term, he has sat out 11 fixtures because of knee and arm problems and has begun merely 12 of the 27 matches where he made the matchday roster.

'He harbours no grudge'

"Ricardo was eager for this," Stewart added. "It is an especially challenging circumstance for him. We are certainly glad to retain a capable forward."

"Peter (Bosz) must talk over his availability for this weekend with him, though given Ricardo's nature, it should not affect him. He holds no resentment towards PSV and, in that way, resembles Joey," Stewart remarked, referring to Joey Veerman's failed switch to Fenerbahçe back in January.

A prospective arrangement with Fulham remains possible for Pepi and PSV, Stewart acknowledged.

The 23 year old Pepi transferred to PSV from FC Augsburg in 2023 for €11 million, having shone at Eredivisie club FC Groningen the previous year with 12 goals in 29 appearances. The American has recorded 39 goals and 9 assists in 82 outings across every competition.