Real Madrid defender Pepe is heading to China for a huge pay rise [Marca]

Pepe set to leave Real Madrid

On Sunday, reports emerged in France that super agent Jorge Mendes was in initial discussions with the Chinese Super League, perhaps about taking his client Angel Di Maria from PSG.

This may well be the case, but it appears Mendes has also been in discussions with Chinese clubs about another of his world famous clients: Real Madrid defender Pepe.

The Portugal Euro 2016 winner is out of contract at the end of 2016/2017 and can negotiate with another club from January 1, 2017.

Pepe set to double his salary in China

Marca splash Pepe on their front cover on Monday and reveal that the Portuguese central defender “has a foot and a half in China”.

Pepe and Real Madrid have been unable to find agreement on a new deal, since they disagree about the duration of another contract.

He is the only player at Real Madrid who is out of contract come the end of 2016/2017. Pepe wanted to stay at Real Madrid for two more seasons, but Los Blancos would only offer a one year deal to the 33-year-old.

An astronomical offer

Hebei Fortune, coached by Manuel Pellegrini, formerly of Manchester City and previously in charge at Real Madrid, are keen on Pepe.

Their offer, in keeping with the salaries in China, is astronomical.

Pepe has been offered 10 million euros after tax in China. He currently earns 4.5 million euros per season after tax at Real Madrid.

Today’s Marca front cover