Brighton have joined Newcastle in the race to sign Arsenal striker Lucas Perez.
The Gunners are now demanding £20m for the striker having spent £17m on him in 2016, which has ruled out Perez’s former club Deportivo La Coruna.
Lucas Perez of Arsenal during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match against Southampton.
It is a valuation that could also put off Brighton and the Magpies, although the duo are now considering a loan offer for the out-of-favour 28-year-old.
This latest interest from the Seagulls should come as a worry to Newcastle as their opening day 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur exposed their struggles in attack.
Manager Rafa Benitez had already identified a new forward was needed ahead of a return to the English top flight, but both Dwight Gayle and Ayoze Perez’s problems in front of goal against a Spurs side who were lacklustre for much of the game suggests more firepower is needed.
Arsenal’s Perez, meanwhile, did have limited opportunities during his first year at the Emirates Stadium, but still scored seven goals in 21 appearances despite mainly being used from the bench, and could well be the strong, physical presence upfront that Benitez is lacking currently.
Rafael Benitez, the manager of Newcastle United.
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