A lot has been said about potential new incomings at Arsenal this summer and while proposed plans sound exciting, departures remain an important part of the club's progress moving forward.
As many as twelve players could leave north London in the coming months, with Bernd Leno, Hector Bellerin, Lucas Torreira, Matteo Guendouzi, Mohamed Elneny, Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah just some of those nearing the exit door.
Another name expected to have their future resolved is Nicolas Pepe, with the Evening Standard reporting that Arsenal will hold talks with the 26-year-old at the end of the season. football.london understands the Ivorian was left considering his options in January due to a lack of game time which has seen him start just five Premier League games all season.
READ MORE: Nicolas Pepe gives Mikel Arteta the key chance to save Arsenal £25m in dream Victor Osimhen deal
Joining for a club-record fee of £72m in 2019, Pepe's arrival came with a lot of expectation and excitement. However, he has struggled to match the hopes that so many people carried for him. There's no doubt that a quality player is in there somewhere, we have all seen glimpses of what he's capable of. The issue is that we don't see it often enough.
The inconsistencies of Pepe's game have been joined by the rapid progress of Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli, further restricting opportunities for the Ivorian. Despite being 5-6 years younger than him, the trio have all showcased incredible talent and potential on a consistent basis, overtaking the former Lille man in the process.
Unfortunately, Pepe finds himself in a situation that is unlikely to improve. The aforementioned youngsters are all key members of Mikel Arteta's squad and plans to further strengthen the frontline are already in place, with Manchester City's Gabriel Jesus and PSV Eindhoven's Cody Gakpo on Edu's radar this summer, football.london understands.
Both players mainly operate as wingers at their current clubs and will no doubt become integral to Arteta's plans as the Spaniard looks to close the gap on teams around his side ahead of next season. Speaking to ESPN Brasil prior to Arsenal's clash with Manchester United last week, technical director Edu hinted the club will look to sign one or two 'top quality' players before confirming that plans were already in place.
Although it is a shame things haven't worked out for Pepe in England, I have no doubt that he can make a difference elsewhere and that's the decision that must be reached once the current season concludes. Finding potential suitors could prove difficult, but an opportunity to cash in and move on an unhappy figure must be viewed as a no brainer by Arteta and co.
While there's an acceptance that the club will not be able to recuperate anywhere near the figure initially paid for him three years ago, Pepe remains a talented player who still has a lot to offer, meaning a decent fee is there for the taking should interested parties come knocking.
