Arsenal have reportedly ‘intensified’ their move to sign Nicolas Pepe from Ligue 1 side Lille.
The winger has made a huge impression in France so far this campaign, thus seeing him linked with a number of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Barcelona and Bayern Munich are believed to be interested in the Ivory Coast international, while Arsenal, Everton and Manchester United have also been mentioned regarding a move.
A scorer in Lille’s 3-1 win over Saint-Etienne last Saturday, Pepe has so far scored six goals in nine league games this campaign, including a hat-trick in the 3-2 win over Amiens back in September.
While Lille would like their star man to remain at the club for the foreseeable future, it may be prove to be very hard to keep him if a big club comes calling.
According to Barcelona-based publication Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness ), Ernesto Valverde’s side have ‘luxury competition’ for the highly-rated player from both Arsenal and Bayern Munich.
In fact, the Spanish newspaper claim that both clubs have ‘intensified’ their interest in Pepe.
In the same publication it was claimed last week that Lille would not accept any bids less than their €30m valuation.
Nicolas Pepe celebrates after scoring against Montpellier last season (Image: FRANCOIS LO PRESTI/AFP/Getty Images)
They stated that a bid of €30m would be enough to prise him away from the French club, although that price could well rise if a number of clubs make their move.
Given that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been used out wide in games so far this season, Unai Emery and Sven Mislintat could well look to strengthen in that area once the transfer window reopens.
However, Pepe recently stated in an interview with Telefoot that he would not be leaving once the transfer window reopens at the turn of the year.
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