Arsenal defender Gabriel suggests Nicolas Pepe was key factor in Emirates move

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Arsenal defender Gabriel has suggested Nicolas Pepe played a crucial role in his decision to come to the Emirates Stadium.

The Brazilian has made a fine start to life in north London, having already won the club’s first Player of the Month award.

Gabriel has made five appearances in 2020/21 so far and has wowed fans with some solid displays.

He marked his debut at Fulham with a goal, and has generally been solid as part of a back three for the Gunners.

It seemed as though Arsenal spent weeks trying to land the South American over the summer, and it appears supporters may well have Pepe to thank in-part for their new colossus.

He said (via Football Daily): “I spoke with [Nicolas] Pepe before I moved [to Arsenal]. I asked him how it was at the club and of course it had an influence in my decision. He was one of the reasons I made the decision to move to Arsenal.”

Pepe and Gabriel, of course, were teammates at Lille before Arsenal poached the Ivorian in 2019 for a reported £72 million (BBC Sport) which is being paid in instalments, followed by the defender this summer for £23 million (BBC Sport).

TBR’s View – Arsenal should praise Agent Pepe

Sometimes it is not acknowledged just how much influence players can have when it comes to signing other players.

Clearly £100,000-a-week star Pepe (Spotrac) has played a key role in the signing of Gabriel, and Arsenal fans must appreciate the winger for that.

Because at the moment, it looks as though the Gunners have landed an absolute rock for their defence which is something that has been missing for years.