Mikel Arteta's target for the new season 

Although it is uncertain whether the club will retain Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, Nicolas Pepe is another forward who is likely to leave Emirates this summer. In January, the Ivorian entertained his options, having started just five league games, which means he didn't receive much game time. The number has remained the same since Pepe kickstarted his last Premier League campaign in October 2021. 

Pepe's Unimpressive Premier League Run 

Arsenal's record signing has been incapable of living up to his £72million price tag after his entry in 2019, netting just 27 goals and relaying 20 assists across 109 appearances. In addition, he was overshadowed by impressive performances by Bukayo Saka, Emile Smith Rowe and Gabriel Martinelli. The 26-year-old is unlikely to receive a similar level of stardom following the rise of his peers. In an exchange with the media in March 2022, Pepe disclosed that he was not happy about the lack of game time he was exposed to this season but respected the decisions being made by interim boss Mikel Arteta.

"The most important thing is to enjoy your football. That is something I am able to do when I get the chance to play,r" remarked Pepe. "It is happening at the international level and a bit less so at club level. It is frustrating not to play. No player enjoys not playing but I have to respect the coach's decision. I am focused on how well we do until the end of the season and the club's target, which is getting into the Champions League. Then we will see what happens."

Arsenal Preparing to Let Go of Players

Now, Arteta and technical director Edu are burdened with signing two new centre-forwards ahead of next season, so the departure of Pepe could also signal the hunt for a new winger. The pair would have to ensure that their team is backed up by solid squad depth. Fortunately, a cheap and straightforward deal has landed on their path. As stated by The Athletic, Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach will attempt to offer Marcus Thuram for a fee between £10m-£15m this summer.

The 24-year-old, who has reportedly been associated with Arsenal, is nearing the last 12 months of his contract. So the club is interested in amassing a fee rather than losing him for free in 2023. Like Pepe, Thuram changed his team in 2019 and joined Gladbach for £10million. The France international's time in Germany didn't provide many opportunities due to several injuries, but he still has 28 goals and 22 assists credited to his record. Thuram is known for his expertise over either wing or as a centre-forward. His versatility could provide more rotational options for the team if Pepe departs in the coming months.