Arsenal tipped to win race for £42m-rated forward

North London side Arsenal have been tipped to win the race for Lille winger Nicolas Pepe once the winter transfer market reopens in coming weeks.

The Gunners are faced with competition from other Premier League sides Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Manchester City and German Bundesliga side Bayern Munich who are all keen in the signature of the prolific forward.

The West London side are keen to have Nicolas Pepe join the Emirates Stadium with England international Danny Welbeck already out as a result of a knee injury he sustained which might end his Arsenal career according to feelers.

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Gunners boss Unai Emery is believed to be a big fan of the player and is ready to do all it takes to have his signature when the winter transfer reopens.

So far this season, the Ivory Coast international has had 18 games under his belt and has seen the back of the net 12 times in addition to the 5 assists he gave across all competitions.

However, the North London side will have to meet the £45 million asking price which could even increase with the number of interests coming in for the star player.

Nicolas Pepe will be a big addition to the Emery side who are keen on qualifying for the Champions League next season.