Struggling winger, Nicolas Pepe, may be set for a sensational return to the Premier League as Villarreal reportedly look to part ways with him this summer.
The 29-year-old Ivorian forward, who was once Arsenal’s record signing at £72 million, has failed to live up to expectations at the La Liga side since arriving from Trabzonspor on a free transfer. Despite appearing in 29 matches, Pepe has only managed to find the back of the net twice, falling short of the attacking impact Villarreal had hoped for.
According to club insiders, Villarreal’s management, including coach Marcelino, are aiming to streamline the squad ahead of the new campaign and are open to cutting ties with underperforming assets. Pepe, who still has a contract running until 2026, is reportedly among the first names being considered for offloading as the club looks to free up its wage bill to invest in fresh talent—particularly with hopes of securing a Champions League spot next season.
While Pepe has drawn attention from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, reports from Footmercato suggest that Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers have expressed concrete interest. Both clubs are believed to have already submitted offers to secure his services, with the prospect of Premier League football—along with the league’s superior financial incentives—potentially luring Pepe back to England.
Everton, under the leadership of returning boss David Moyes, are undergoing a major squad rebuild as they prepare for life at the soon-to-be-completed Bramley Moore Dock stadium. Meanwhile, Wolves, showing signs of promise under head coach Vitor Pereira, view Pepe as an affordable attacking option capable of reviving his career with a fresh start.
Villarreal are reportedly willing to terminate his contract if no club meets their transfer fee demands, hoping to reach a resolution early in the summer transfer window. This would allow Pepe to negotiate a new deal as a free agent, giving interested clubs more flexibility in meeting his wage expectations.
As the transfer market heats up, all eyes will be on where the once-highly-rated winger will land next in what could be a decisive move for both his career and his potential new cl
ub.