3 Premier League clubs interested in Nicolas Pepe | OneFootball

Three Premier League clubs are interested in taking Nicolas Pepe on loan in the January transfer window, according to a report.

Nicolas Pepe left celebrates with team-mates after scoring their side’s first goal of the game during the Premier League match at Selhurst Park, London. Picture date: Wednesday, May 19, 2021. Copyright: Justin Setterfield

French outlet Jeunes Footeux report that Mikel Arteta no longer counts on Nicolas Pepe, and several Premier League sides have come to the fore to enquire about him.

Newcastle United, Everton, and Crystal Palace are all reportedly interested in the 26-year-old.

None of the three are considering a permanent transfer upfront, but they all want a loan with an option to buy.

According to Jeunes Footeux, Pepe’s form will give Arsenal “no other choice” but to accept a loan.

Personally, I think this is all a bit over the top. Even if Pepe has lost his starting spot, he’s still a regular on the pitch, making nine appearances so far this season, scoring once and assisting three times.

We’re not at the stage where Arsenal would be forced to accept any offers for the player. I’m not even convinced Arteta would want Pepe to leave in January.

Nicolas Pepe of Arsenal celebrates scoring his side’s opening goal during a Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London. Picture credit: David Klein / Sportimage

The fixtures only get more important in the second half of the campaign, you don’t want to go into them without a strong backup in most positions.

If Pepe’s gone, I’m not sure Arsenal have a good alternative to Bukayo Saka anymore. Gabriel Martinelli would probably end up filling in, but he’s better on the left.

Even when Pepe is in shaky form, as he has been lately, he still brings some goals and assists. That’s not too common in the current squad.

My feeling is that Arsenal won’t make a move on Pepe’s future until the summer, when they can shop for replacements if necessary.