Arsenal confirm transfer of Lucas Perez from Deportivo La Coruna

By Lyall Thomas

Image: New Arsenal signing Lucas Perez

Arsenal have confirmed the signing of Deportivo La Coruna striker Lucas Perez.

The 27-year-old has joined the club on a long-term contract for a fee understood to be £17.1m.

"I was really happy and flattered when I heard about Arsenal's interest. I was very hopeful to get the chance to come here," Lucas said.

Who is Lucas Perez?

Profile of Arsenal's new striker from Deportivo

"I played as a striker for most of my career but I can adapt to any of the four positions across the front line.

"I prefer playing as a striker but I have no problem playing anywhere up front. I'm a pacy player. I like to link up and combine with my team-mates, playing one-twos to work a shot.

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Image: Arsenal have paid a reported fee of £17.1 m for the Spaniard

"I don't want to put myself in a box, I hope that the Arsenal fans can see for themselves and enjoy watching me. I want to show what I'm about, get stuck into playing and perform well."

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Gunners boss Arsene Wenger said: "He's not only a goalscorer, he's a guy who combines well with partners, who can give a final ball and makes good runs.

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"He's got a good eye for goal and had an outstanding season last year."

Balague on Perez

Deportivo star a top signing, says Guillem

Arsenal have been keen to bolster their strike-force this season and were understood to be interested in Lyon's Alexandre Lacazette, but could not agree a deal with the French club.

Image: Perez scored 18 goals in 37 La Liga appearances last season

They quickly turned their attention to Perez, who scored 18 goals in 37 appearances in La Liga last season following a successful season on loan from PAOK Salonika.

Lucas began his career in his native Spain with Atletico Madrid and then Rayo Vallecano.

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