Chelsea are looking to bolster the ranks this winter, and have highlighted a winger plying his trade in Portugal as an addition who would bear fruit…

What’s the word?

FC Porto winger Pepe has been touted as the next big flanker to grace London soil, with the Blues rivalling Arsenal in competition for the ace’s signature. 

Portuguese outlet A Bola (via Sport Witness), remarked that the wily winger allegedly left talent scouts ‘with their mouths open’ after glistening with a blend of trickery and guile.

The report goes on to state that a fee of £65m would be required for the Portuguese giants to permit the departure of their most coveted asset, with the hope that the demands will deter potential suitors from dipping their toes far enough into the waters to create from unwanted ripples.

Pulisic replacement

While Porto are holding out for a fee close to the £65m release clause, they might be convinced to whittle down the numbers somewhat, and one Chelsea star who may be on the way out could aid the club in this pursuit.

With The Athletic reporting that Chelsea are hoping to recuperate £35m of the £57.6m that they paid for the American gem back in 2019, the toll of forking out for Pepe is certainly alleviated.

Pulisic, despite enjoying an excellent 2022 World Cup campaign in Qatar, has failed to solidify a starting role at Stamford Bridge with any regularity, and reports now state that Chelsea would be willing to part with the “magician”, with the likes of Liverpool interested in his name.

Pepe has been immense during his time in Portugal, with journalist Fernando Campos lauding the "important" player for his impact on the side, where he has recently signed a new deal until 2027.

Such a contract extension will make transfer dealings a more strenuous task, but Chelsea boast both the pull and the financial depth to succeed in their lunge for the player.

With three goals and five assists across 22 outings for his club this term, Pepe is flourishing with his deft feet and ability across the park, recording an average rating of 7.21 in the Primeira Liga, creating four big chances and displaying his defensive aptitude with 1.8 interceptions and 1.3 tackles per outing, as per Sofascore.

Pulisic, in retrospect, has only scored one goal this season, and provided just two assists, and his influence on matches for the Blues appears to be waning, all the more fuel for the fire regarding the argument of replacing him with someone of Pepe’s build. 

While not the most prolific of wingers, Pepe’s importance to his team is paramount, with his 4.94 progressive passes received and 3.71 shot-creating actions per 90 invaluable in the fight for silverware. 

Chelsea might have to break the bank, but they would secure a dynamic, relentless player who provides cover and support from a variety of positions, capable of icing the cake in the search for a return to the top of the game.