Arsenal have expressed an interest in signing exciting Lille winger Nicolas Pepe in January, according to the Times.
The £27million-rated wide man has already scored eight goals and registered assists in Ligue 1 this season and is seen as a “main target” for the Gunners.
Unai Emery has reportedly decided to bring in a new attacking player, following Danny Welbeck’s serious ankle injury.
The England international could miss the rest of the season, so depth in that area of the pitch is required.
Arsenal are thought to face competition from north London rivals Tottenham for Pepe’s signature, with Mauricio Pochettino also keen to bolster his options in the final third.
Premier League champions Manchester City are another team who have been linked with him.
The 23-year-old has been one of Ligue 1’s star performers so far this season, so it is no surprise to see him being coveted by so many of England’s heavyweight clubs.
Pepe moved to Lille in 2017 and has grown to become one of the most important players at the club.
He has also won eight caps for the Ivory Coast, scoring three times since making his debut in November 2016.
It could be an interesting battle for his signature once New Year’s Day arrives.
