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Should Newcastle use Spanish connection to tempt clinical 28-year-old striker into summer move?

Arsenal's Alexis Sanchez celebrates scoring their fourth goal with Lucas Perez (REUTERS)
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West Ham United are reportedly keen on the Arsenal man, and Newcastle United should consider joining the race to sign him.

Arsenal's Lucas Perez comes on as a substitute to replace Alexis SanchezArsenal’s Lucas Perez comes on as a substitute

Reports surfaced yesterday that the Hammers have lodged an enquiry regarding the potential availability of Gunners forward Lucas Perez, with a view to making a summer bid for the Spaniard, according to the Times.

The 28-year-old’s continual omission form the Arsenal starting line-up has baffled Gunners fans recently, with the former Deportivo La Coruna man impressing every time he has been given an opportunity in the cup competitions.

At this stage of his career, he will surely be desperate for the chance to play more regularly, and a move away from the Emirates could be just what he needs.

And the Magpies should seriously consider challenging West Ham for his signature, should they achieve promotion to the Premier League this season.

The problem for Newcastle is that they have become to reliant on Dwight Gayle for goals.

With Daryl Murphy closing in on 34 years of age, and Aleksandar Mitrovic obviously not impressing Rafa Benitez, a move for Perez would seem to be a rational signing for the Tyneside outfit.

The Arsenal man possesses impeccable technical ability, and is clinical when presented with a goalscoring opportunity.

Lincoln's Alan Power in action with Arsenal's Lucas Perez Arsenal’s Lucas Perez in action

In 21 appearances for Arsene Wenger’s side, Perez has scored seven goals and chipped in with two assists – an admirable return considering only nine of those outings have been starts.

Perez would surely be able to settle in quickly at St James’ Park, with the likes of Jesus Gamez, Ayoze Perez and Rafa himself already part of the Spanish contingent on Tyneside.

Whilst he will surely not come cheap – Arsenal rejected an offer of £26 million for Perez from the Chinese Super League in January according to the Times, Newcastle will be armed with plenty of cash, should they achieve promotion to the Premier League.

And the signing of Perez would be a statement to the rest of the league that they mean business.

Arsenal's Lucas Perez scores their first goalArsenal’s Lucas Perez in action