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Report: Newcastle United lead chase for Lucas Perez

Lucas Perez of Arsenal in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Southampton at Emirates Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Londo...
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Newcastle United are finally willing to pay to sign Arsenal striker Lucas Perez.

TV Galicia in Spain have reported that Newcastle United are leading the race for Arsenal striker Lucas Perez.

It was reported by Turkish outlet Sabah two days ago that Fenerbahce were actually in front, with Newcastle only willing to do a deal if the Gunners made him available for loan.

Arsenal's Spanish forward Lucas Perez (C) celebrates after scoring a goal as Basel's Colombian defender Eder Balanta reacts (R) during the UEFA Champions league Group A football match...

However, TV Galicia have reported now that the Magpies have taken the lead in the race for Perez’s signature, and manager Rafael Benitez is willing to pay the £13.5 million to sign him.

Perez appears to be surplus to requirements in North London after the Spanish striker failed to appear in Arsenal’s Community Shield win over Chelsea on Sunday.

Newcastle need a new striker and Perez, who scored seven goals in nine starts for the Gunners last season, would be a welcome addition to compete with Aleksandar Mitrovic and Dwight Gayle.

Benitez, who has already confirmed his interest in the forward, would love to have him in his side before the weekend, as United kick off their Premier League campaign with the tricky visit of Tottenham.

Lucas Perez of Arsenal takes a shot on goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium on January 1, 2017 in London, England.