Borussia Dortmund’s Transfer Rumors: Potential Interest in Ricardo Pepi

In recent transfer windows, Borussia Dortmund has demonstrated a penchant for acquiring attacking talent. During the last summer transfer period, the club undertook significant restructuring of its striker position by offloading Niclas Füllkrug, Sébastien Haller, and Youssoufa Moukoko, and welcoming Serhou Guirassy and Maximilian Beier. The move was met with skepticism but has seen Guirassy thrive, continuing the form he exhibited at Stuttgart. Guirassy brings a robust striking presence that Dortmund arguably lacked since Erling Haaland‘s departure. Meanwhile, Beier has shown versatility, operating both upfront and in wide positions, though he is still finding his footing.

Despite these changes, speculation persists that Dortmund might seek to bolster their attacking options further, with reports linking them to Ricardo Pepi of PSV Eindhoven. Pepi has scored seven goals and provided one assist in 15 appearances for PSV this season and has consistently impressed in the Eredivisie over recent seasons. The American forward’s performances have caught the attention of not only Dortmund but also their Bundesliga rivals, Bayern Munich.

The potential move for Pepi raises several questions. On the surface, such a transfer seems unwarranted, given Dortmund’s existing forward options. The summer overhaul appeared to set the team up efficiently for the coming seasons. However, this rumor gains interest in light of reports that Dutch forward Donyell Malen may leave during the winter transfer window if the right offer is tabled. Malen’s departure could create a void in wide positions, potentially allowing coaches like Nuri Şahin to deploy Beier more permanently in such roles, thus creating space for another central striker like Pepi.

The viability and necessity of bringing in Pepi depend on multiple factors. Pepi’s previous stint with Augsburg following his transfer from FC Dallas in January 2022 did not yield fruitful results, leading to his move to the Eredivisie with FC Groningen. There, he re-established himself, which attracted PSV’s attention. His development in the Dutch league suggests that he may now be prepared for a step up into a more competitive setting.

While the reports remain speculative, the possibility does exist for Dortmund to re-enter the transfer market for a new striker. Any such acquisition would require departures from the current roster to rationalize the integration of a player like Pepi.