French side Nice have confirmed that Nicolas Pepe will return to Arsenal this summer, choosing not to enter negotiations over a permanent deal.
Pepe spent the season on loan in the south of France, making a total of 28 appearances as injury blighted his campaign. Despite managing to score eight goals and register one assist, the Ivorian winger largely failed to impress and Nice - who are owned by prospective Manchester United buyer Sir Jim Ratcliffe - announced on Friday that he'll be heading back to North London.
Pepe, 28, has just one year remaining on his Arsenal contract, putting the Gunners under pressure to find a buyer during the summer transfer window or risk losing him on a free in 12 months' time. His predicament adds to boss Mikel Arteta's many headaches as he attempts to raise funds, with the 28-year-old remaining Arsenal's record signing at £72million, having joined from Lille in 2019.
