According to Turkish Football, reporting via Fanatik, Wolves are interested in making a move for Pepe this summer.

Pepe is currently plying his trade in the Turkish Super Lig with Besiktas, having switched to the club from Real Madrid in the summer of 2017.

Now Wolves, who have already signed two of Pepe’s international teammates in the form of Rui Patricio and Joao Moutinho this summer, could be the 35-year-old’s next destination.

Nuno Espirito Santo has made excellent use of the Portuguese market during his time in charge at Molineux. The likes of Ruben Vinagre, Ruben Neves, Helder Costa, Ivan Cavaleiro and Diogo Jota are all examples of Portuguese talents that have recently been brought to the club with great results.

That being said, a move for Pepe could prove to be a massive mistake.

The Breakdown

On paper, the arrival of a triple Champions League winner and reigning European champion at international level looks like great business for Wolves. Pepe’s wage demands would likely reflect his lofty status in the game though.

At 35-years-old, Pepe’s best days are well and truly behind him. An introduction to the Premier League at such a late stage in his career threatens to brutally expose his physical limitations. In such a scenario, the on-field indiscipline that has dogged Pepe’s career could easily create difficult situations on the pitch for Wolves to contend with.

Beyond that, Wolves’ success to this point owes plenty to the fast, attacking football they play. That style relies on every individual member of the side working hard and being able to cope with the pace of the game.

Pepe is undeniably an excellent defensive operator, but he is no longer capable of functioning effectively within such a system. 

Transfermarkt only value Pepe at £1.8 million, but Wolves should save their money as the defender’s presence in the side could end up costing them a whole lot more.