Barcelona among teams interested in Nicolas Pepe, says Lille president

Nicolas Pepe's superb start to the season for Lille has caught Barcelona's attention.

Reports last week suggesting that the Catalan side was interested in the Ivorian winger were confirmed by Lille's president Gerard Lopez, who said that Barcelona is one of several teams interested in Pepe.

"It is true," Lopez told RMC Sport, as translated by ESPN FC's Sam Marsden, when questioned over the validity of the reports out of Spain linking the 23-year-old with a move to the Camp Nou. "There are a few big clubs interested in him.

"Clubs contacted us directly after the transfer window to find out how to proceed. I wanted him to stay for at least one more season."

Although Lopez confirmed that Lille are open to selling players during the winter transfer window, Pepe is unlikely to leave as the French side will only part with those who aren't playing regularly.

Pepe enjoyed a solid first season at Lille following his €9-million transfer from Angers, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 32 Ligue 1 appearances.

He's followed up his impressive debut season with four goals and three assists to open the 2018-19 campaign.