Arsenal could terminate Nicolas Pepe’s contract with Rob Holding likely to leave too

There is a possibility that Arsenal could terminate Nicolas Pepe’s contract by the end of the summer window, reports The Telegraph.

The Ivory Coast international spent the season on loan with OGC Nice and is not in plans.

Pepe has a year left on his contract and the north London club are seeking buyers for the 28-year-old.

However, Arsenal could be left with no choice than to terminate his contract if no club buy him this summer.

They are hoping to avoid that scenario and instead generate a transfer fee, however small, for their club-record signing.

Pepe joined Arsenal for £72 million in 2019 and is currently their fifth-highest earner.

The summer transfer window opens officially tomorrow and shuts on September 1.

Rob Holding could also leave the club as manager Mikel Arteta is looking to strengthen his defence this summer.

The Gunners have been looking at potential options in the centre-back and right-back positions.

Holding played in 14 Premier League games this term, starting six times.

The 27-year-old also made ten appearances across other competitions, and he has two years left on his contract.

However, Arsenal are already looking for replacements in the two positions he can play.

Arteta needs to upgrade his squad if the Emirates Stadium club are to challenge for the title next term.

While signing a central midfielder is top priority, bolstering their options at the back and up-front will come in handy.