According to a recent report by Foot Mercato, Liverpool will make a last-ditch attempt to hijack Arsenal’s deal for LOSC Lille winger Nicolas Pepe this summer. Another report from La Voix Du Nord (via Get Football News France) claims that the Ligue 1 side are currently considering the Reds’ bid for their prized asset.
Nicolas Pepe’s Remarkable Rise In The Top Tier Of France
The Ivory Coast attacker enjoyed the best year of his football career last season when he put in a series of match-winning performances in the Ligue 1. His brilliant attacking contributions helped the French outfit grind out a second-place finish in the league standings.
Pepe appeared in 41 matches for Lille in the previous term, scoring 23 goals while creating 12 assists across multiple competitions. The 24-year-old has also represented Ivory Coast in 11 international matches and has found the back of the net four times for his nation so far.
The former SCO Angers wing wizard had a fantastic goal-scoring record in the top tier of France last season which has enhanced his reputation in European football. However, Pepe has only proven his worth in the previous campaign so one can argue whether he has what it takes to succeed in the UEFA Champions League. Thus, he might be a gamble for Jurgen Klopp’s side as they look to mount another title charge in the Premier League next season.
What Are The Ivorian Prospect’s Best Attributes?
Pepe is one of the fastest players in French football and can be a difficult man to catch when left isolated in a 1v1 situation. The Lille frontman’s incredible speed helps him to make some driving runs down the right flank. The Ivory Coast international proved last season that he has all the skillset required to score or create goals consistently at the top level.
Will Recruiting Pepe Be A Wise Move For Klopp?
However, it remains to be seen whether he can adapt to the physicality and high intensity of English top-flight football. Even with all the risks, the Merseyside giants would be wise to make a late bid to try and secure Pepe’s signature in this off-season.
The Reds had to endure a tough preseason thus far after they suffered a heavy loss against Napoli with a 3-0 scoreline at the Murrayfield Stadium last weekend. Their recent setback goes to show that Klopp still has a thin squad when it comes to quality up top. Hence, it will be a good move if they can find a way to bring Pepe to Anfield before the start of the new campaign.
