West Ham United's interest in Nicolas Pepe is "a bit of a surprise" according to journalist Pete O'Rourke who has dropped an update on the potential deal.

What's the latest?

Speaking to This is Futbol, O'Rourke said:

"It’s a bit of a surprise link, really, when you see the problems that Pépé’s had at Arsenal.

"He’s never really lived up to expectations after his big-money move and you’re thinking, do West Ham really need him?

"But we all know that David Moyes is looking to add attacking reinforcements to his squad out wide and up front as well, so maybe Pépé is coming into the thinking."

Reports in Spain have recently linked Pepe to a move across London as well as to other Premier League clubs, and although he could be seriously on West Ham's radar, it's not something supporters will be too pleased about.

Supporters will be gutted

The Hammers may be in need of attacking reinforcements, but is Pepe really the answer? Last season Moyes' side finished seventh, just two places behind Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, and the ambition next season will be to get closer to them.

Ivory Coast international Pepe made 20 Premier League appearances last season and scored only one goal, he's been deemed surplus to requirements by his manager with Arteta willing to let him leave.

Given the poor performances he produced last season, it's easy to see why. Whilst the Gunners would probably be happy to sell him to West Ham at the right price, we think the East London club should save their money and invest it elsewhere.

As O'Rourke said, he hasn't lived up to expectations, and the pressure would be on him from day one if he moved to West Ham which wouldn't do his confidence any good.

It seems like the best thing for him would be a move away from the Premier League, where he doesn't come with the stigma of failing to live up to the £72m price tag attached to him.

Supporters will be gutted to hear of West Ham's interest, but if it's serious, then they should at least look for a loan deal first rather than committing to a huge fee for a player who might flop.

AND in other news: Moyes plotting West Ham bid for “impressive” £25k-p/w talent, imagine him & Kostic...