What’s the story?
Real Madrid defender Pepe is all set to leave the La Liga giants and sign a deal with Serie A side, Inter Milan, according to multiple reports in Spain and Italy. Onda Cero report that the Portuguese defender will reject a contract offer from Madrid and sign a three-year contract with the Nerazzurri, who will take advantage of a new influx of money to offer Pepe a bumper contract.
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Also Read: 5 things you didn’t know about Pepe
Previously...
Pepe joined Real Madrid in 2007 from FC Porto, with the Portuguese star quickly going on to be a constant presence at the heart of Los Blancos’ defence – forming a formidable partnership with Sergio Ramos. However, as he is 34 years old, Pepe seeks a long-term contract from Real Madrid – though Florentino Perez was only willing to offer him a one-year deal.
The heart of the matter
Pepe is still highly sought after despite approaching the end of his career, as he was fielding offers from Galatasaray and PSG, while also turning down a stunning 12 million salary from Chinese Super League side, Hebei China Fortune.
However, the Portuguese star has opted to move to Inter Milan, after his agent, Jorge Mendez, met with representatives of the Nerazzurri's new owners, Suning, to hammer out a deal. Inter Milan have offered Pepe a €5 million annual salary for two years, with an option for a third season as well.
Real Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane has left out Pepe from the squad due to his rib injury, which will see the Bernabeu miss the chance to say goodbye to one of their favourite players.
Also Read: Report: Real Madrid identify €40m rated world class defender to replace Pepe
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Author’s Take
Inter Milan are getting a supreme defender in Pepe – the Portuguese star still is an excellent defender and can easily adapt to the demands of Serie A. There are parallels to be drawn from Dani Alves’ departure from Barcelona to Juventus, and Pepe will be keen to show what Madrid will be missing out on.
The Portuguese star was the best defender of Euro 2016 and still has a couple of years left in him, as he has maintained his hunger and fitness despite his advancing years. Pepe, however, departs Madrid on good terms, as their fans will be ever grateful for some truly memorable times in a Los Blancos shirt.
