Why Arsenal should target Nigerian winger as potential replacement for Nicolas Pepe

The transfer window is almost upon us as major leagues around the world came to beautiful endings.

The English Premier League was won by Pep Guardiola's Manchester City (their fourth in five years), the Serie A was won by AC Milan, the French league was won by Paris St Germain, Bayern Munich won the Bundesliga while Real Madrid won the Spanish La Liga.

The summer transfer window is utilised by clubs around the world to improve and fix gaping holes in their playing squad which makes it a busy time, especially for club executives.

While the window has not opened officially, major deals are already getting completed by clubs.

Erling Braut Haaland has already joined Manchester City, French red-hot striker Kylian Mbappe has ended his transfer saga by choosing to remain with Paris St Germain while Arsenal has already sold Konstantinos Mavropanos to Bundesliga club Stuttgart FC.

Nigerian players are also not left out as the majority of them look for deals to improve their careers (I expect Paul Onuachu to get a move to a top club).

However, Arsenal should be looking at a deal to get Samuel Chukwueze into the Emirates Stadium to replace Ivorian winger Nicolas Pepe.

Recall that Pepe was signed for a club-record fee of 72 million pounds and is yet to set the stage alight with his performances.

It is reported that he may be sold by the club and his recent change in agency has only fueled speculations over his future. If he eventually leaves the Gunners, Samuel Chukwueze would be an ideal replacement.

The Nigerian is naturally blessed with searing pace, intelligence, creativity, vision and good finishing.

His natural balance when running with the ball at his feet is extremely polarising to Nicolas Pepe's awkward ball movement.

With the right environment created around him, Samuel Chukwueze could be Arsenal's main star on either flank.

He could rotate with English youngster Bukayo Saka or both of them can be used on opposite flanks.

He is also very experienced having won the Europa League under Unai Emery. With Arsenal securing European football for next season, there will be enough games to play for them in 2022-2023.

While there may be concerns over his recent injury problems, the presence of Bukayo Saka and even academy graduate Omari Hutchinson will be enough as cover.

Arsenal should be all over this deal and their popularity in Nigeria will certainly help in convincing the Nigerian winger to make the move to the Emirates Stadium.

Sofoluwe Mayowa

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