5 potential suitors for Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe

As rumours about the club’s striking interests continue to swirl and fans try to speak the return of former Gunner Serge Gnabry into existence, it appears a big window of offensive change is on the cards at Arsenal this summer which may well mark the end of Nicolas Pepe’s ill-fated stint in north London.

The club-record signing observed his 27th birthday earlier this week but, in truth, there has been little cause for celebration on the pitch in recent times. Pepe was limited to just five league starts during the 2021/22 campaign – the last of which came in October – and has since instructed his new agent to secure a move away from the Emirates (apparently).

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However, while his three-year stay with the Gunners will not be too fondly remembered, the Ivorian remains a very skilful player blessed with pace and great composure in front of goal. His adaptation issues at Arsenal were likely compounded by his unsuitability to Mikel Arteta’s patient, possession-based system and, if the right team can be found, he could yet thrive elsewhere.

Who are the candidates competing for the signature of Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe this summer?

Therefore, there will be a few suitors vying for his signature when the market opens next week, and here are five teams who might be tempted to make an offer.

1. West Ham

Although a move abroad might be considered more advisable, Pepe may still harbour ambitions of proving his mettle on the Premier League stage and West Ham have emerged as a possible domestic destination.

Suggestions of East-end interest have intensified in media circles over the last month and, upon closer inspection, the Hammers seem to be a good tactical fit for the former Lille star’s explosive style. Often set up in a 4-5-1 formation, David Moyes’ outfit typically favour a low defensive line and allow opponents to have the ball before forcing turnovers in their own half, where they subsequently invoke their direct footballing philosophy and aim passes into the channels to capitalise on transitional opportunities.

Our London rivals also frequently task their full-backs with overlapping in support of the wingers and encourage wide players to drift into central areas, a ploy that would maximise Pepe’s ability as he is at his best when cutting inside and afforded space by indecisive defenders.

Available for the bargain price of £25m, West Ham might view him as a suitable replacement for the departing Andriy Yarmolenko as they’ll be keen to bolster their resources ahead of another European adventure next season. It is certainly a viable option.

Suitability Rating: 7/10

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