Nicolas Pepe set to leave Arsenal as he is not in Mikel Arteta's plans - Reports

Arsenal winger Nicolas Pepe (on loan at OGC Nice) is reportedly ready to leave the Premier League club because Mikel Arteta's plans do not include him. At the start of the season, the 27-year-old fell down the pecking order at the Emirates. He was sent to Nice in order to gain first-team experience.

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In 24 games across competitions, the Ivorian attacker has eight goals and one assist. According to L'Equipe, the former LOSC Lille forward could leave Arsenal permanently soon. Nice and Pepe have three months to find out if he can keep his spot at the Allianz Riviera permanently. The Ligue 1 club will assess his performances for the remainder of the season before making a decision on a potential permanent transfer.

Pepe is relieved to be leaving Arsenal because he is not in Arteta's plans. He failed to impress after joining the club for €80 million from Lille in 2018. He failed to live up to his hefty price tag, scoring 27 goals and providing 21 assists in 112 games. The Ivorian has a year left on his contract with Arsenal, who may look to sell him in the summer. The transfer market has him valued at €22 million.

Meanwhile, Jesus missed three months of action after suffering a serious knee injury while playing for Brazil in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Prior to the setback, he was in fine form, having scored five goals and provided seven assists in 27 games across all competitions this season. In the 3-0 Premier League win over Fulham on March 12, he made his first appearance since returning from injury.

Odegaard, the Gunners captain, is delighted to have the Brazilian back, as he brings valuable experience and leadership to the team. According to the Norwegian (via 90min): "It is a great addition to the squad again. He gives so much every day in training; he comes in and trains like it’s a game."

Odegaard continued: "He gives everything in all situations, so it is great to have him back. Of course, he helps with leadership; he has been at Manchester City and won a few things there, so he can help with his experience and his energy as well."