Ricardo Pepi of FC Dallas has exploded onto the scene, the USMNT forward scored 1 goal and added 2 assists in the USMNT dramatic come from behind victory over Honduras in World Cup qualifying. Now after four years in MLS, Pepi has already caught the eye of various scouts in Europe.
Pepi has played in a total of 46 games and scored 14 goals, 12 of which have come this season in MLS. Pepi who has shown a good knack for finishing and hold up play is coming along nicely at Dallas but according to Fabrizio Romano, come January Pepi could be moving to Italy.
On CBS Sports Que Golazo podcast Romano mentioned that “Italian clubs are already looking for him. So maybe, sorry Dallas fans, enjoy the player, but I think his future will be in Europe because this boy is really interesting.” Here are the three reported Italian clubs interested in Ricardo Pepi.
AC Milan
Ricardo Pepi at the All-Star Game (Getty)
AC Milan have gotten younger and see Pepi as a valuable asset in a world post Zlatan. Pepi would be integrated into the squad and be brought along slowly. Milan is said to have scouted the player previously and have kept an eye on Pepi. Pepi is also seen as a great way for Milan to tap the American market with a player that can play first team minutes.
Bologna
Ricardo Pepi #24 of FC Dallas competes in the All-Star Touch Challenge during the 2021 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge (Getty)
Bologna is the rumored Italian team that tried to sign Pepi in January, but Dallas was not keen to sell him. Bologna is hoping to make a good case to Pepi’s people since if the club gets into a bidding war with other teams, they will surely be at a loss.
Udinese
Ricardo Pepi #16 of FC Dallas scores a goal in the 93rd minute against the Portland Timbers (Getty)
With an international squad, Udinese is said to also be looking towards the United States and have Pepi on their short list, again with clubs from many leagues looking at Pepi, Udinese will have to make a huge bid, something Italian clubs have not done for American players.
