FC Porto Transfer Market: Pepê on Italian Giant's Radar

Pepê concluded his fifth season with FC Porto by clinching the national championship title, his second with the club. The Brazilian winger had previously contributed to the Dragons' 30th league title in his debut season (2021/22). At 29, he is one of the squad's most experienced players and longest-serving members, yet, much like younger talents, he continues to attract interest from abroad.

AS Roma is among the clubs monitoring the Brazilian international. Reports began circulating on Thursday on websites affiliated with the Italian capital club, and A BOLA has confirmed that Pepê is indeed on the Giallorossi's target list, an interest that dates back some time.

According to information gathered by our newspaper, the Italian club sounded out the player's representatives last summer and even considered submitting a formal offer to Porto's SAD. This intention never materialized, but the versatile attacker's name remained well-regarded in Roma's offices, with emissaries regularly sent to the Estádio do Dragão throughout the season.

A BOLA understands that Roma has not made any recent approaches to FC Porto's leadership regarding Pepê, and such a move is unlikely in the coming days or weeks. Currently, the club lacks significant financial liquidity, as they aim to secure UEFA Champions League qualification this weekend in their final Serie A matchday 38 visit to Hellas Verona.

However, should they secure the coveted Champions League spot—the most probable scenario—and considering potential summer sales, the situation could change. The versatility of the Dragons' number 11 would likely appeal to Gian Piero Gasperini: in the 3-4-3 formation favored by the experienced coach, there could be a place for the Brazilian in various positions.

Furthermore, Pepê is not the only name in the Portuguese market attracting Roma's attention; they have also scouted Noah Saviolo from Vitória de Guimarães, who is also a target for Benfica. As for the FC Porto player, he is highly rated in other countries, including England.

His contract with the Dragons is valid until June 2028, with an additional year option, and includes a release clause of 75 million euros. However, the SAD led by André Villas-Boas might be willing to entertain offers naturally below that figure, although they still view Pepê as an important asset for the future. In the recently concluded season, the winger made 48 appearances in the blue and white jersey (41 as a starter), scoring four goals and providing six assists.