5 players Arsenal could've signed instead of Nicolas Pepe

Leon Bailey joined Bayer Leverkusen in 2017 and went on to establish himself as one of the best young wingers in the world.

Bailey took the Bundesliga by storm, becoming one of the most important players in the Leverkusen side. He scored 39 goals in 156 appearances for the German club. Capable of playing on either wing, he quickly earned the appreciation of the footballing world.

The Jamaican has been in high demand over the past couple of years, ultimately joining Aston Villa during the summer transfer window. Known for his speed and crossing, Bailey is one of those players that any club would love to have.

He has hit the ground running with Aston Villa, already scoring one goal and providing one assist in just three games. There is no way to say for sure that Bailey would have outperformed Pepe had he signed for Arsenal, but he certainly deserves a loud shout in the debate.

#2. Raphinha - Leeds United

One player who has emerged as a sensation in the Premier League is Leeds United's Raphinha.

The Brazilian has seen some serious growth in his career over the past few years. Starting out initially with Vitoria Guimaraes in 2016, Raphinha spent the following two years with two different clubs. He joined Sporting CP in 2018 and then moved to Rennes in 2019.

During his time across these clubs, Raphinha has been seriously impressive. He is highly renowned for his excellent dribbling as well as his accurate shooting abilities.

Since joining Leeds in 2020, Raphinha seems to have hit top form under Marcelo Bielsa. He has taken the league by storm, scoring several excellent goals and attracting the attention of the world's top clubs.

Leeds are currently into their second season after being promoted to the top-flight. Raphinha has become one of their most important players within just one year. The Brazilian also recorded more goal contributions than Nicolas Pepe last year, despite finishing lower in the table.

Raphinha certainly has that X-factor about him and a lot of clubs are interested in signing the Brazilian.

#1. Wilfried Zaha - Crystal Palace

Wilfried Zaha is one player who has been linked with Arsenal for the good part of two seasons.

Linked with Zaha before signing Pepe, Arsenal seemingly opted for the man from Lille due to his higher attacking output at the time. A couple of factors seem to have been left unconsidered. Zaha is already used to the Premier League and had notched up decent numbers until then.

Zaha is, of course, no stranger to England. Having signed for Crystal Palace in 2015, he now has over six years of Premier League experience under his belt. He has already made over 400 appearances for the club, registering 143 goal contributions in total.

Famed for his direct dribbling style and his ability to shoot with either foot, Zaha is a player that carries a constant threat. The Zaha vs. Pepe debate has been around ever since the Gunners signed Pepe and seems to be one comparison that will be around for a while longer.

Poll : Who has been better in the last two years?

Nicolas Pepe

Wilfried Zaha

82 votes

5 players Arsenal could've signed instead of Nicolas Pepe

#3. Leon Bailey - Aston Villa

#2. Raphinha - Leeds United

#1. Wilfried Zaha - Crystal Palace