Oh Hyun-gyu (24, Genk), a promising next-generation No. 9 striker for Korean football, is considered a hot topic among football fans regarding his potential move to the English Premier League (EPL). Recent rumors about his transfer to Fulham have heightened expectations, but at the same time, the presence of another strong target has surfaced, suggesting that his entrance into the EPL may not be so straightforward. Beyond mere transfer news, this situation is intriguing due to the complex intertwining of Fulham's tactical priorities and transfer market strategies.
According to Sky Sports, as of January 26, 2026, Fulham and Genk are involved in 'positive talks' regarding Oh Hyun-gyu's transfer. However, a formal agreement between the clubs or on personal terms has not yet been finalized. With Oh Hyun-gyu contracted with Genk until the summer of 2028, Genk is likely to demand a sufficient transfer fee.
Interestingly, Fulham is actively pursuing both Oh Hyun-gyu and American forward Ricardo Pepi (23, PSV). Fulham is reported to have offered significant transfer fees for Pepi, with amounts reaching £21 million (approx. KRW 35.7 billion), escalating to £28 million (approx. KRW 47.6 billion), and €32 million (approx. KRW 46.6 billion). However, PSV has rejected Fulham's initial offers, maintaining a firm stance that they won't sell Pepi unless it's for a 'very high' price.
From a tactical standpoint, it's essential to scrutinize whether Fulham aims to acquire both strikers simultaneously or is prioritizing one over the other. Fulham's substantial financial investment and persistent courtship for Pepi could directly impact Oh Hyun-gyu's potential move to Fulham. The transfer market operates within a complex system of budget constraints and position priorities. Fulham's continual high-stake betting on Pepi might indicate they value a specific striker type or Pepi's potential more highly.
Should Fulham succeed in acquiring Pepi, significant changes could occur in the team's offensive lineup. Pepi is recognized as a classic No. 9 striker with powerful physicality and finishing skills. His addition would provide Fulham a clear target man capable of holding the ball up front and exerting pressure on opposing defenses. In such a case, the positioning and role of Oh Hyun-gyu remain uncertain. Conversely, if negotiations for Pepi falter, Fulham might intensify its focus on Oh Hyun-gyu as a practical alternative. This is when flexibility in transfer fees and personal negotiations becomes crucial.
Despite some media outlets suggesting a somewhat extreme headline that Oh Hyun-gyu's EPL transfer is 'completely scrapped,' as mentioned earlier, it's premature to conclude that Fulham's transfer has 'completely collapsed.' The transfer market is a realm where unpredictable variables operate until the closing moment. Various factors, including club-to-club transfer fee negotiations, player choices, and potential replacements play a comprehensive role in shaping the final decision.
In conclusion, the transfer rumors of Oh Hyun-gyu to Fulham serve as a captivating example to observe the complexities of Fulham's transfer market strategy and tactical considerations. Observing how Fulham's strong commitment and financial investment in Ricardo Pepi will affect Oh Hyun-gyu's fate, and ultimately the choice Fulham makes, will continue to be a crucial focal point in the coming weeks as the transfer market unfolds. For Korean football fans, there is only the anticipation of Oh Hyun-gyu thriving in a major league and fully showcasing his potential as the 'next national team No. 9'.
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