Everton eyeing move to sign former Arsenal forward | OneFootball

Everton Monitoring Nicolas Pépé Revival as Villarreal Push for Champions League

Nicolas Pépé is making noise again—the kind that turns heads, rekindles fading reputations, and has Premier League clubs rustling through their scouting notes. According to Foot Mercato, Villarreal are enjoying the best version of the Ivorian winger since his record-breaking transfer to Arsenal faded into frustration. It’s been a slow burn, but now it’s catching fire, and Everton are among the clubs starting to feel the heat.

Pépé’s La Liga Resurgence Turns Heads

It was not so long ago that Pépé looked like a player who had lost his way. Muscle injuries, inconsistent form, and the weight of expectation had all taken their toll across stints at Arsenal, Nice, and Trabzonspor. But Villarreal has offered something different: structure, patience, and now, reward.

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During a 4-2 win over Osasuna, Pépé produced one of those performances that suggest the player he once promised to be never truly vanished. One goal, two assists, ten duels won, six tackles, two big chances created, and a 100% long pass completion rate—numbers that speak less of statistics and more of intent. It wasn’t just a good game; it was a message.

“He came back after being unavailable last season… he was on the verge of having surgery and missing the season,” said Villarreal manager Marcelino. “We’re happy to have him with us; he can make the difference. At this rate… he will certainly be a threat for us in attack.”

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Everton and Wolves Among Interested Clubs

What happens when a once-record signing, presumed lost to the carousel of loan spells and mid-table anonymity, begins to find form again? Premier League interest, of course. Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers are reported to be watching closely. And why not? Both clubs have lacked that raw, touchline-hugging outlet capable of producing something from nothing.

For Everton, in particular, the appeal is layered. A forward who can stretch games, isolate defenders, and add depth to a frontline that often feels predictable. The interest may be tentative for now, but as Pépé continues to shine in Spain—and with Villarreal chasing a Champions League place—the stakes are rising.

Contract Talks Add Complexity

Villarreal, it must be said, are not blind to his value. The club are reportedly eager to extend Pépé’s contract, which currently runs until 2026, and protect their asset from circling interest, especially from England and Saudi Arabia. There was interest from the Gulf last summer, and it hasn’t gone away.

But here’s where the story gains nuance. Pépé has never played in the Champions League. Should Villarreal secure qualification, they can offer something neither Everton nor Wolves can. That alone could tip the balance, unless finances intervene. In modern football, sentiment rarely wins the bidding war.

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Player Motivation Key to Next Move

Pépé’s form is undoubtedly peaking at a timely moment, but his next move must be carefully chosen. Another misstep—a system that doesn’t suit him, a manager that doesn’t trust him—could see the cycle begin again. For now, Villarreal offer something invaluable: consistency, minutes, and faith. Whether Everton or Wolves can provide the same is the real question.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Reading about Everton’s reported interest in Nicolas Pépé brings a familiar mix of curiosity and caution. Yes, on current form, he looks like a rejuvenated force—a winger with genuine threat, capable of giving their attack something it’s often lacked: unpredictability. But hasn’t Everton been here before?

This is a club that’s tried—and often failed—to revive big names in decline. From Yannick Bolasie to Dele Alli, they’ve flirted with reputations more than with functional footballers. Pépé was once the most expensive player in Arsenal’s history and didn’t justify that price tag. That’s not entirely his fault, but it’s still relevant.

If he comes to Everton, it needs to be part of a wider strategy, not just another roll of the dice on a “name.” Does he fit into David Moyes’ system? Can he track back, dig in, and contribute defensively? Or does he become a luxury item they can’t afford?

There’s no denying Pépé’s talent. But talent alone doesn’t win relegation battles. If Everton move for him, they must be sure they’re signing this version of Pépé, not the ghost of his Premier League past.