The centre-back would be an excellent stop-gap signing for Arsenal.
Arsenal boss Unai Emery has worked wonders during his short time in charge at the Emirates, but it is clearly evident that he needs to add more quality to his central defensive department, if he is to guide his side to a trop four finish.
Laurent Koscielny, 33, has only just returned from a long-term achilles injury, and he looked well off the pace at Southampton on Sunday. Shkodran Mustafi is currently out with a hamstring injury and Rob Holding will not play again this season.
With his in mind, the Gunners should consider making a move for former Real Madrid defender Pepe, who is available on a free transfer following his release from Besiktas.
The 35-year-old has won pretty much all there is to win in the game, including three La Liga titles and three Champions League winners medals.
Pepe’s quality is beyond question. The 103 international caps he has earned for Portugal is evidence of his class, and Arsenal cannot afford to miss out on bringing him to north London.
Standing at 6ft 2in tall, the Portuguese is strong in the air, and is a wonderful reader of the game – something that makes up for his lack of pace.
The former Real Madrid centre-back is obviously past his best, but he would be a great stop-gap signing for Arsenal, and would add a certain level of experience and winning mentality to Emery’s squad.
His availability on a free transfer makes a move for him a no-brainer for Arsenal, and Emery must do everything within his power to bring him to the Emirates.
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