Will Nicolas Pepe complete a reported £25m summer transfer

As history prepares to repeat itself, the approaching in and outs could mark the end of a trend that has gripped the Gunner over the past few years. It is to be noted that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Shkodran Mustafi are four of the most expensive signings in the Gunners' history. The first two are also reputed to have held the honour of being the club's record signing.

However, none of the four legendary bosses is present in the club. Fans also have trouble wrapping their heads around the fact that they didn't make any profit for letting them go. The only exception to the trend is the rare swap deal involving Henrikh Mkhitaryan and Sanchez, which marks the only time the club gained something apart from saving a hefty amount on wages. Alexandre Lacazette, who entered in exchange for £46.5million from Lyon in 2017, might extend the list. His contract expires in June, and the 30-year-old might be eligible for a free transfer. 

Half of Arsenal's most expensive signings will have walked out free of cost if these predictions fall in line. The only tweak in the process is Lacazette's early departure following the end of his contract, unlike Aubameyang, Ozil and Mustafi's exit, which was founded on mutual termination.  

Pepe's Departure Can Make or Break Things for Arsenal

Nicolas Pepe's exit could initiate the end of this ongoing trend. The Ivory Coast international, who joined the club for £72million from Ligue 1 outfit Lille in the summer of 2019, had a brilliant season. The only footballer who outperformed him was Paris Saint-Germain ace Kylian Mbappe. After spending almost three full seasons in north London, it could be time for Pepe to leave once the summer transfer window opens. Reports further suggest that Arsenal are ready to hear about incoming offers for the 26-year-old while the team attempts to support and push Mikel Arteta's first-team squad by making more money.

Reports also claim that the Gunners are prepared to suffer a loss on Pepe and have no qualms about accepting offers close to £25million. Although it is not a good amount, it is reasonable considering the winger's estimated transfer value of €20million-€30million as per the CIES Football Observatory. Arsenal had this inevitably coming as no deals could trump the £72million fee paid to Lille in exchange for Pepe. He will have two years remaining on his contract, but interim boss Mikel Arteta and technical director Edu will seek clarity over the matter. The pair will attempt to command a fee for Pepe, which could foresee a drastic change if we surmise how little the club have received for sending off their high-key players.