Report: Arsenal step up Nicolas Pepe chase following Danny Welbeck injury

Arsenal have reportedly upped their interest in Lille attacker Nicolas Pepe after potentially losing Danny Welbeck to a season-long layoff.

Welbeck suffered a suspected broken ankle in Thursday's 0-0 draw against Sporting Lisbon and is awaiting the results of a scan to determine the true extent of the injury.

The Gunners fear that the England international will be out for at least six months, however, taking him through to the end of his current deal.

According to The Sun, attention has now turned to bringing in a new player at the earliest possible opportunity, and Lille winger Pepe is in Unai Emery's sights.

Pepe, who has also been linked with Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Manchester City, is thought to be valued at £45m.