Arsenal have contacted Lille about their interest in winger Nicolas Pepe, according to reports in France.

The Ivorian international has been the subject of bids from at least two clubs with Schalke reportedly having had a €20m offer rejected before the end of the transfer window, with his club demanding €30m (£27m).

However, Lyon were said to have to come to an agreement with Lille for Pepe but the 22-year-old was apparently not keen to move to the Ligue One side.

The Gunners were reportedly monitoring the situation, and while they couldn’t sign the player themselves after the August 9th deadline had passed, they are said to have told the player’s club that they are watching his progress.

A bid in January or in the summer is believed to be on the cards if Pepe continues his current form.

The pacey winger has started the season with one goal and three assists from four matches.