Barcelona have joined the likes of Arsenal and Bayern Munich in pursuing Lille winger Nicolas Pepe, according to reports in the Catalan media.

The La Liga champions are seeking a new forward this summer, with the Ivorian being considered as one possible option.

Pepe has been watched by scout Bojan Krkic, the father of the Stoke City player, and he has sent glowing reports back to Barca about the winger.

The Gunners were reportedly lining up a €40m offer for the 23-year-old during the January transfer window, off the back of the player’s excellent form for Lille this season.

Pepe has scored 17 goals in all competitions as well as providing 11 assists in 28 appearances. With the Ivorian international putting in such good performances, his club may hold out for a higher transfer fee.

A €60m (£52m) asking price has reportedly been set for the pacey wide man. With Arsenal’s reported transfer budget, that may give Barca the edge in the race for the Ligue One star.