SOCHI, RUSSIA - JUNE 30: Pepe of Portugal celebrates after scoring his team's first goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia Round of 16 match between Uruguay and Portugal at Fisht Stadium on June 30, 2018 in Sochi, Russia. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Former Real Madrid defender Pepe has reportedly turned down a move to Arsenal in favour of joining AS Monaco

The 35-year-old is a free agent after leaving Turkish side Besiktas in December and had been linked with a return to Portugal at FC Porto.

But L’Equipe reports that Pepe will instead join Monaco, despite a late attempt by Arsenal to hijack the deal.

Alan Shearer names Thierry Henry as his ideal partner up front

Andrew Smyth -
Premier League legend Alan Shearer has named Thierry Henry as his most ideal strike partner.

Unai Emery’s side are on the lookout for defensive reinforcements in this month’s transfer window with Rob Holding sidelined for the rest of the season.

Out-of-favour Juventus defender Medhi Benatia is allegedly being lined up in a trade deal involving Aaron Ramsey for Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Monaco are expected to sign Chelsea and former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas shortly as new manager Thierry Henry attempts to steer the club clear of the relegation zone in Ligue 1.

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