Harry Diamond
Jose Fonte has labelled Nicolas Pepe ‘incredible’, as the Lille star nears a big-money move to Arsenal.
Pepe emerged as one of the most in-demand players in Europe following a stunning season for Lille, the 24-year-old scoring 23 goals in all competitions as the French side finished runners-up in Ligue 1 and secured Champions League qualification.
Former Southampton and West Ham defender Fonte, who played alongside Pepe last season, says Arsenal fans ‘will be in for a treat’ once the Ivory Coast international completes his move to the Emirates.
Arsenal are expected to complete a £72m deal for the winger, a fee which will smash the club’s transfer-record, and Fonte has backed Pepe to be a major success in the Premier League.
“He’s incredible,” Fonte said on talkSPORT.
“If he can reach the same level that he did last year in Lille, which I believe he will, I think Arsenal fans will be very happy.
“He’s super quick, his left foot is silky, his 1v1 is second to none, he finishes really good, he takes penalties and free kicks.
“He’s a very accomplished player and I think Arsenal fans will be in for a treat.”
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