Pepe has managed 12 goals and seven assists in 18 Ligue 1 games this season as Lille fight to return to the Champions League after flirting with relegation a year ago.
Pepe looking more and more like the real deal. Sensational goal yesterday after 70 yard run, now has 12 this season (joint top scorer with Mbappe and Sala) playing on right wing. More Hazard than Gervinho?
— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) December 17, 2018
And while Lille owner Gerard Lopez has previously hinted that even €100m (£90m) might not be enough to tempt the French club to sell mid-season, the latest gossip from France suggests that the stance has softened and it might now only take half that.
It has been reported by L'Equipe that Lille will negotiate if a buyer comes forward with an opening offer of €50m (£45m). That is a sizeable sum, but Arsenal have previously shown they are willing to spend big if it means getting the right player on board.
Arsenal leading chase for Nicolas Pepe but lots of competition emerging. L’Equipe this morning suggest Lille will negotiate in January if a club opens bidding at €50m. But owner has previously stated he won’t sell mid season
— Matt Spiro (@mattspiro) December 17, 2018
The Gunners aren't alone in admiring Pepe, though. The 23-year-old Ivory Coast international has been linked with Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Manchester United at various times.
Earlier rumours suggested Borussia Dortmund, Sevilla and Schalke were all interested in Pepe for around €30m, although they could all be priced out of the transfer.
Arsenal chief Raul Sanllehi has been sceptical of the January transfer window, but the club was able to capture Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang midway through last season, while the injury to Danny Welbeck has arguably left the squad light and could prompt business.
Source: 90min
