For all of the discussions over Pepe’s future; with moves to Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, and even Hebei China Fortune all touted, the defender could still stay put at Real Madrid when the club meets agent Jorge Mendes this week.
Months of inaction had seeminly ended the chances of the defender extending his decade-long stay at Los Blancos, but a deal is not thought to be out of the question.
One of the big issues that refuses to go away is Pepe’s desire for a two-year deal, with Real so far offering just a 12-month extension, and such problems are again expected to dominate discussions over the coming days.
Glowing in his praise of the Portugal international at a club event on Sunday, president Florentino Perez made clear Pepe’s importance while standing alongside the defender.
“One of our most important players is Pepe,” said Perez. “He represents the union between the team and the fans.
“He is an exemplary player who would die for Real Madrid.
“For Pepe I only have words of admiration and respect. He gives everything for the club. I can only show my admiration, my respect and my gratitude.”
In response, the 34-year-old addressed his future but insisted that there are no definites between now and the summer, when his contract expires.
“Only God knows what my future holds because I have a contract until June 30,” said the player himself on Sunday after returning to the first-team in the Madrid derby.
“I am just focusing on returning as soon as possible to help the team.”
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