Arsenal ‘reject’ offer from rival as Nicolas Pepe transfer update emerges

Arsenal are now preparing for a clash with Manchester United as they look to return to winning ways. The Gunners conceded late to draw with Fulham over the weekend, with Mikel Arteta’s men suffering their first setback of the season.

Preparations are now underway for the United clash, but plenty of concentration is being dedicated to transfers ahead of Friday’s deadline, with the Gunners needing to offload players while also potentially signing a defender. Here we round up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Smith Rowe offer

Chelsea are said to have made an approach to sign Arsenal star Emile Smith Rowe.

Following reports that Smith Rowe had been made available by the Gunners, albeit they would command a big fee for the attacker, it’s claimed Chelsea made a bid. But according to the Daily Mail, that offer has been rejected by Arsenal, who are not likely to sell to a direct rival.

Smith Rowe is likely to find opportunities hard to come by this season, but he could still get plenty of game time across the campaign, even if the majority of that game time is not likely to come in the way of starts.

Pepe working on exit

Nicolas Pepe’s representatives are said to be working hard to secure a move for the winger ahead of this week’s deadline.

The Gunners want Pepe’s wages off the books, but the player is not simply going to accept any move. Foot Mercato have said as much, reporting that Pepe is rejecting any and all offers from Turkey. France and Germany are possible destinations, while there is also reportedly interest from Saudi Arabia.

But Pepe is running out of time as he looks to land himself a new home ahead of Friday’s fast-approaching transfer deadline.