Teams are scrambling to add players before the transfer window closes. Arsenal doesn’t need to panic in the final weeks because their business started well, but work remains.
The Gunners must remove players to make room for newcomers. Nicolas Pepe could be sold at the deadline.
While there’s no permanent transfer interest, a loan move has been suggested. There may be discontent over letting the Ivorian depart on loan, but it’s the greatest option for the club after the success of William Saliba and Nuno Tavares.
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OGC Nice reportedly wants to loan Pepe. The report says the Ivorian wants to return to Ligue 1 and the Gunners are open to a deal.
Pepe will have one year left on his contract if he moves on loan this summer. In normal circumstances, loaning him out at this stage of his contract would seem preposterous because he could leave for free six months after he returns. Pepe’s case is different.
Due to the £72m Arsenal paid for Pepe in 2019, it’s hard to permanently dispose the Ivorian as he no longer has any value.
Before joining Arsenal, the winger was outstanding in Ligue 1. He led Ligue 1 in goals with 22 and assists with 11.
A good loan season at Nice might boost his worth and allow Arsenal to sell him permanently. Edu must gamble.
William Saliba had a successful loan stay at Marseille last season, and Nuno Tavares has scored two goals in two appearances for the same team.
Pepe must leave Arsenal, preferably permanently. An initial loan arrangement would help Arsenal get the most money for the Ivorian.
