Arsenal are reportedly considering an approach for Lille winger Nicolas Pepe when the transfer window reopens in January.
The 23-year-old is understood to have drawn the attention of a number of clubs across Europe with his performances last season, when he scored 13 goals in 36 games.
Pepe already has a goal and an assist to his name this season from the opening-day win over Rennes, and L'Equipe reports that Arsenal have now joined the race for his signature.
However, the Gunners are likely to face competition for the Ivory Coast international, with Lyon, Real Betis and Sevilla having also been credited with an interest.
Southampton were linked during the summer and are understood to have seen a bid of £12.5m turned down, and reports in France suggest that Lille have already rejected offers of up to €35m (£31.5m) for the attacker.
Pepe, who has three goals in eight appearances for his country, only signed a new five-year contract with Lille last summer.
Barney Corkhill
