According to Times(via Metro), Unai Emery has given Arsenal the green light to make a move for Nicolas Pepe in January. The LOSC Lille winger has been identified as one of the prime candidates to bulk up the Gunners’ attack and a big money move could soon be on the horizon.
It is believed that Pepe would cost around £27 million but can he really prove to be a smart piece of investment for Arsenal? Here are the pros and cons of a potential move.
Pros
After making his move to Lille last summer, Nicolas Pepe has quickly emerged as one of the most sought-after wingers in French football, having been involved in 18 goals in his debut season for the Les Dogues.
This season, however, Pepe has been performing at a whole new level, scoring eight goals and providing seven assists in just 13 league games.
Much like Ousmane Dembele or Christian Pulisic, Pepe is a dynamic winger who loves to move forward after receiving the ball. His immaculate control of the ball coupled with his insane pace down the flanks makes him a scourge for the opposing defenders.
This could suit Arsenal really well, given their lack of a solid winger, who can penetrate the opposing defence on a consistent basis. The 23-year old’s explosive gameplay will surely attract defenders, which in turn, will allow the likes of Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang more freedom in the final third.
In addition, Pepe also has a keen eye for goal, which is clearly reflected in his impressive scoring tally for Lille while his ability to conjure up chances(averaging almost two key passes per game) will ease up the burden of Mesut Ozil.
Cons
On the flip side, Pepe is guilty of losing possession far too often. Although that is understandable given his dynamic and direct style of play, he has been dispossessed 37 times in just 13 matches – which is unacceptable, especially in the Premier League.
Additionally, Pepe’s defensive work-rate is also lacking and something that really needs to improve if he is to make a mark at Arsenal, who implement a high line of press.
Although the Gunners do boast the services of a speedy fullback in the shape of Hector Bellerin in the right-hand channel, Pepe’s tendency to throw away possession coupled with his lack of defensive capabilities could cause huge problems for Arsenal.
That being said, Pepe is still young at 23 years of age and thus, his weaknesses can certainly be rectified if nurtured well. And at £27 million, the Ivorian could prove to be no less than a steal for the Gunners.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
