Arsenal transfer Nicolas Pepe has become Arsenal's most expensive signing ever. The Ivory Coast international's £72m transfer was officially confirmed on Thursday afternoon and he will add depth to the Gunners' attacking options which already included Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette.
Sitting down for his first interview as an Arsenal player, Pepe revealed why this move means to much to him and his family. "Being here is very emotional because it has not been easy for me,"he told Arsenal.com. "I have come a long way and struggled a lot and so signing for this great club is a big reward."
Prior to joining Arsenal, Pepe was linked with a number of clubs. Many of whom are competing in the Champions League this season so for the Gunners to win the race ahead of Bayern Munich as well as Liverpool and Napoli is somewhat of a coup. And Pepe has explained his decision.
"It was my family and my agents," he added. "We talked and thought a lot about it. It was at the time of the CAN [Africa Cup of Nations] as well, we thought a lot during, before and after the CAN. "It was important to make the right decision and I am convinced that Arsenal is the right choice."
Pepe could now make his Arsenal debut in their final pre-season friendly of the summer against Barcelona on Sunday today. Then it's on to the Premier League opener against Newcastle United at St James' Park a week later.