According to a recent report by Le 10 Sport, Liverpool have joined the chase to secure the services of LOSC Lille winger Nicolas Pepe this summer. The same source has revealed that the Reds will battle it out with Chelsea and Arsenal in pursuit of the Ligue 1 prospect at the end of this campaign.
It is believed (via the Metro) that Jurgen Klopp is on the lookout for a long-term replacement for Daniel Sturridge and has identified the Ivory Coast international as a candidate to fill the shoes of the English striker.
The Rapid Rise Of Nicolas Pepe
Pepe has enjoyed a fruitful campaign thus far under Christophe Galtier’s stewardship after putting in a string of eye-catching displays in the Ligue 1 during this campaign. The former Poitiers FC youth prospect has featured in 35 matches for the French outfit this term, scoring 20 goals while creating 14 assists across all competitions.
His remarkable productivity in front of the opposition goal has helped Lille climb to the second spot of the league standings which goes to show how valuable he has been for Galtier’s team so far. The 23-year-old has found the back of the net on four occasions in 11 appearances for Ivory Coast during his international career.
What Will The Ivory Coast Wing Wizard Bring To Merseyside?
Pepe is blessed with electric pace and is a very effective dribbler out in the wide areas. His powerful runs often cause a lot of problems for the opposing defenders in the attacking third of the pitch. The Ligue 1 starlet has also added goals and assists to his game which makes him such a highly sought after talent in the French top-flight.
The potential acquisition of Pepe will undoubtedly bolster Klopp’s attacking options at Anfield. However, the Ivory Coast international might struggle to secure regular playing time at the Merseyside club as the trio of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah are nailed-on starters in the Reds first-team.
Should Klopp Move In For Pepe?
All in all, Liverpool should do everything in their power to land Pepe in this off-season as he has everything in his locker to be a grand success in Premier League football.
