Nicolas Pepe Set to Join Besiktas: Arsenal Outcast Closing in on Move
Nicolas Pepe, the 28-year-old winger, is reportedly on the verge of completing a move to Turkish Super Lig side Besiktas. Pepe has not made a competitive appearance for Arsenal since May 2022 and fell out of favor at the Emirates Stadium last summer. After being loaned to OGC Nice, where he made 28 appearances across all competitions, Pepe returned to North London but trained alone as Arsenal officials considered terminating his contract.
However, it seems that Besiktas is now set to sign Pepe in a permanent transfer. According to reports, Pepe agreed to a deal with the Turkish club on Monday morning and has already completed a medical ahead of the proposed move. Arsenal is said to be prepared to accept a nominal fee to facilitate the transfer.
Pepe joined Arsenal in August 2019 in a then-club-record £72 million transfer from Lille. Since then, he has scored 27 goals and provided 21 assists in 112 first-team appearances for the Gunners. However, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment with Pepe’s performances during his loan spell at Nice last season, stating that they expected more from him.
The potential move to Besiktas could provide Pepe with a fresh start and an opportunity to reignite his career. The Turkish Super Lig has become an attractive destination for many players in recent years, with clubs like Besiktas offering competitive football and the chance to compete in European competitions.
Besiktas has a rich history and is one of the most successful clubs in Turkish football. They have won the Super Lig title 16 times and have a passionate fan base that creates an electric atmosphere at their home stadium, Vodafone Park. Playing for Besiktas could provide Pepe with the platform to showcase his skills and regain his confidence.
For Arsenal, offloading Pepe would help alleviate their wage bill and allow them to potentially reinvest in other areas of the squad. The Gunners have been active in the transfer market this summer, signing several new players and strengthening their squad. Parting ways with Pepe would provide them with additional resources to continue their rebuilding process.
As for Pepe, a move to Besiktas could offer him the opportunity to rediscover his form and prove his worth. He has shown glimpses of his talent during his time at Arsenal, but consistency has been an issue. A change of scenery and a fresh challenge could be just what he needs to reignite his career and fulfill his potential.
In conclusion, Nicolas Pepe’s move to Besiktas appears to be imminent. After falling out of favor at Arsenal and training alone while his contract was being considered for termination, Pepe is now set to join the Turkish Super Lig side. The move could provide him with a fresh start and an opportunity to regain his form. For Arsenal, offloading Pepe would help alleviate their wage bill and potentially allow them to reinvest in other areas of the squad. Overall, this transfer could benefit both parties involved and pave the way for new beginnings.