Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe could return to France with Nice interested in signing him

Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe could return to France as Ligue 1 club Nice are reportedly interested in signing him on loan. 

The 27-year-old joined the Gunners in 2019 in a deal worth around £72 million. However, he has failed to make an impact, scoring just 27 goals in 112 appearances across all competitions (stats from Transfermarkt). 

The Ivory Coast international struggled for game time last season, having fallen behind Bukayo Saka in the pecking order. He started only five matches in the Premier League, earning 681 minutes in the process. 

However, Pepe’s Arsenal nightmare could be about to end as Nice are keen to bring him to the Allianz Riviera on a loan deal, according to Foot Mercato. 

The Ligue 1 outfit have been very active in this transfer window, signing the likes of Aaron Ramsey and Kasper Schmeichel. 

The French outfit finished fifth in the Ligue 1 table last season and they will be aiming to do even better this campaign under top manager Favre. 

Best option for the Gunners 

Pepe has been a big disappointment for the north London side who splashed a club-record fee to sign him in 2019. 

However, he has failed to impress with his performances and the club are looking to move him on. 

The ideal scenario would be that they could sell him for a substantial transfer fee. However, the Gunners are unlikely to find suitors who would be willing to sign him for a huge price. 

A temporary move would be the best option for the Gunners as this could be a good step to recoup some of his market value further down the line.