Arsenal forward Nicolas Pepe has joined OGC Nice on loan for the season. However, there is no option in the loan deal to make the move permanent.
Although, Mikel Arteta is open to a permanent exit in the next season. The winger has struggled for game time since arriving at the Emirates.
NICOLAS PEPE AND OGC NICE TRANSFER LINKS FULL SEASON
According to official statements by both clubs, Nicolas Pepe has left Arsenal and has joined OGC Nice on loan for the season. Pepe has failed to justify his price tag at the Premier League club. Hence, he has been restricted to substitute appearances in the last two seasons. However, Nicolas Pepe remains a regular starter for his national team Ivory Coast.
The report also states that the loan deal does not have any buy option. He was presented to the club on Thursday before Nice’s Europa Conference League playoff game against Maccabi-Tel Aviv FC. The Ligue 1 side won the game 2-1 on aggregate after extra time. Arsenal will hope Nicolas Pepe does well for Nice as it will drive his price up in the transfer market next season.
ARSENAL IS LOOKING TO MAKE ONE MORE SIGNING IN THIS TRANSFER WINDOW
Mikel Arteta has said that he wants to sign one right winger before the season. They are linked with Wolves winger Pedro Neto. However, a deal for Neto is very difficult. Wolves are reportedly demanding over 50m for the Portuguese winger. Another problem is the Gunners are reportedly Financial Fair Play watch list. Hence, they now need to sell players before they buy players.
However, selling players is becoming a big problem. The club have failed to get any bids for their fringe players like Ainsley Maitland Niles and Hector Bellerin. However, the club is not leaving any stone unturned. Ainsley Maitland Niles has been offered to a number of Premier League clubs. The report also states that the club is close to mutually terminating the contract of Hector Bellerin.
Nicolas Pepe has a good record in Ligue 1 with Lille. The winger scored 37 goals in 79 matches before leaving for Arsenal. Hence, Arsenal and Pepe will be hoping that a move back to France revives his career and his transfer value. The player will be short of match fitness as he has not played any matches this season.
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