In a recent tweet, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe wants to seal a move to Turkey this summer. It has been stated that the Ivory Coast wide player is eager to make a switch to Trabzonspor with the Gunners prepared to cash in on him soon.
Nicolas Pépé, not convinced by Saudi approaches — deal not happening, his priority is now to join Trabzonspor 🇹🇷
Negotiations to follow in order to reach an agreement, as @footmercato called; he’s completely out of Arsenal project.#AFC prepared to give the green light. pic.twitter.com/4OncRa8jve
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 7, 2023
Pepe’s Impressive Run Of Form In French Football
Pepe enjoyed a decent loan spell at Nice last season when he put in a run of productive displays on the right side of their attack. The France-born talent made 28 appearances for the French outfit in the previous campaign, scoring eight goals and earning one assist in the process on all fronts.
The 28-year-old was a consistent performer in the final third based on his average of 2.6 shots, 1.5 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per 90 minutes in Ligue 1. He was even excellent when distributing the ball from the back after completing 83.1% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at his parent club Arsenal will expire in the summer of 2024. Thus, it makes sense for the Gunners to cash in on him soon or else risk losing him as a free agent next year.
Nicolas Pepe Wants To Seal A Move Away From Arsenal: Good Move For Both Parties?
Pepe has got the pace to cause a lot of headaches for his marker out on the flanks. He can even create some decent plays for others around him when he is playing regularly on the pitch. The Ivory Coast talent can be a streaky goal-scorer in the final third but needs to find a way to be more decisive in front of the opponent’s goal.
Despite his talent, Pepe has struggled to prove his worth during his time at Arsenal. Thus, it makes sense for both the player and the North London club to part ways with each other this month.
Pepe can benefit from a change of scenery so that he can earn regular playing time away from the Emirates Stadium. Mikel Arteta can also use the money generated from his potential sale to bolster his squad even further this January.
