Report: Leicester offered to cover Nicolas Pepe’s full wages

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Leicester City offered to cover Nicolas Pepe’s full wages as they looked to sign the Arsenal star on loan, but Nice-Matin in France reports that he remains determined to return to Ligue 1.

Arsenal look set for a boost at the end of the window. Of course, the fans are hoping that there may be one more major incoming. Reports this week claimed that Pedro Neto is the top target for Mikel Arteta’s side.

But first, players must leave. And it seems that the next name out the door could be Pepe.

Arsenal agreed terms with Nice over a loan deal for the 27-year-old on Tuesday. According to Nice-Matin, the Ligue 1 side were ready to cover some of his £127,000-a-week salary.

However, Leicester then made a last-ditch move to snatch Pepe from Nice’s grasp. In fact, the report claims that the Foxes were prepared to cover his full wages.

But Pepe wants to join Nice. And thus, Leicester look set to miss out.

L’Equipe meanwhile, reports that Pepe should be available to make his Nice debut this weekend. There is no option to buy included in the agreement with Arsenal.

Leicester offered to cover Pepe’s full wages

Some Leicester fans may wonder if they have had a lucky escape. Even on loan, signing Pepe would have been a gamble if they were paying him £127,000-a-week.

Pepe has the potential to be an ‘outstanding‘ player. But he has not shown anything like enough since making the move to the Emirates.

Arsenal may be a little frustrated to miss out on the better deal. But Pepe moving on in any capacity only increases the likelihood of the Gunners being able to make a signing.