Arsenal are having an aggressive start to the season in more ways than one, having already picked up three wins from three in the Premier League.
And in recent days it’s become evident that they are now doing all they can to continue their summer clearout with Nicolas Pepe the next on the hit list.
An update from Fabrizio Romano in the early hours of Sunday morning confirmed that negotiations were continuing between Arsenal and OGC Nice for a transfer.
Negotiations continue between Arsenal and OGC Nice for Nicolas Pépé. Details of loan deal being discussed, as Arsenal told Pépé he has to find a new solution as soon as possible. 🚨🇫🇷 #AFC
Sevilla have not submitted any proposal to Arsenal for Pépé as of now, despite rumours. pic.twitter.com/GMw2KaZg1P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2022
It’s not yet clear what the terms are exactly, but reports suggest it’ll be a season-long loan deal of some description with Nice looking to get it over the line as soon as possible.
It’s also interesting to note that there is no truth so far in the rumours that Sevilla were making a late charge for Pepe’s availability.
The 27-year-old was left out of the squad completely as Arsenal travelled to beat Bournemouth 3-0 on Saturday, the biggest indication his future was coming to an end.
But this is a deal that won’t be easy to do due to his huge wages of £140k per week now having to be distributed in a way that works best for Arsenal.
Not only do they need his salary off the books, but his departure will signal the immediate ability to go out and get a right sided forward.
Many names have been rumoured following Arsenal’s failed pursuit of former Leeds United midfielder, Raphinha, but none are strong enough to be called Arsenal’s number one target.
With less than 10 days remaining in the transfer window, Arsenal’s priorities are to find new clubs for Pepe, Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Hector Bellerin.