According to a recent report by the Liverpool Echo, Liverpool are not interested in recruiting Nicolas Pepe from LOSC Lille, and any rumours linking the Ivory Coast winger with a move to Merseyside are “pure lies”. The same source has also claimed that the Reds’ sporting director Michael Edwards personally contacted Lille manager Christophe Galtier earlier this month to ensure that Liverpool have zero interest to land Pepe in this off-season.
Pepe’s Stellar Form For Lille In The French Top-Flight
Pepe enjoyed a fantastic breakout season with Lille in the Ligue 1 as he helped his club earn a hard-fought second-place finish in the league standings. The 24-year-old made 41 appearances for the French outfit last season, finding the back of the net on 23 occasions while providing 12 assists across various competitions.
The former SCO Angers talent’s goal-scoring record has been sensational for Lille which has made him one of the hottest commodities in European football.
Pepe has represented Ivory Coast in 11 international matches while registering four goals for them in the process. He is versatile enough to play in multiple positions across the frontline. The Mantes-la-Jolie born prospect prefers to operate down the right flank but can also play as a lone striker up top if needed.
What Are The Ivory Coast Winger’s Strengths And Weaknesses?
Pepe is lightning quick, and his blistering speed allows him to run with the ball on the wings to create opportunities in the attacking end of the field. His lung-bursting dribbles from the centre of the park have often led to goal-scoring chances last season, but one can question whether he can replicate his rich vein of form in the upcoming campaign.
Not Opting For Pepe: Massive Mistake By Klopp?
There is no doubt that Pepe is good enough to be a success story at Anfield, but paying over the odds for a player with incredible potential could be a considerable risk. The reigning European champions need to recruit proven quality if they are to pip Manchester City to the Premier League title next season.
The Merseyside club are better off sticking with their transfer plan and opting for players who would be the best fit for Klopp’s style of play at the red half of Merseyside.
