Andreas Pereira could be on his way out of Fulham already with Paris Saint-Germain and Premier League rivals Chelsea among those keen on the £35 million-rated Brazilian.
The so-called ‘pre-season Pirlo’ is proving, at Craven Cottage, that it’s not just at the International Champions Cup where Pereira does his best work.
The former Manchester United midfielder has been ‘outstanding’ since joining Fulham for a bargain £10 million last summer; his intensity, endeavour and fearsome set-pieces helping Marco Silva’s side punch above their weight at the top end of the table.
In all competitions, Pereira has three goals and six assists. As many as he managed in 75 games for Man United.
And, while Pereira has not yet received an ‘official offer’ ahead of the summer transfer window, Goal believe that the Belgium-born Brazil international is unlikely to stick around as Fulham look to disprove the inevitability of ‘second-season syndrome’.
Fulham’ Andreas Pereira is a target for London neighbours Chelsea
Pereira, the report says, is ‘unlikely’ to stay at Craven Cottage beyond the summer; the one-time Lazio and Valencia loanee already weighing up his options and considering a fresh challenge.
West London neighbours Chelsea, ESPN say, see Pereira as a potential Mason Mount replacement. There is also interest from PSG and Atletico Madrid. Fulham value Pereira at around £35 million. Silva would be disappointed to see the late-blooming 27-year-old depart, but a £25 million profit on a man who spent just one season at the Cottage would be some consolation; Fulham fans drying their tears with a fistful of dollars.
“He has been outstanding this season. I know a lot of people had doubts when I decided to sign him,” Silva tells Fulham’s official website. “But I knew his qualities and his character.
“Even last season, we had a conversation about his future. But it wasn’t the right moment for him to join us. He’s a key player on and off the ball and with set pieces. A top professional who is enjoying himself at the moment in a white shirt.”
