Espanyol are reportedly eyeing up a move for Lucas Perez.

• Lucas signed for Arsenal from Deportivo last year, linked with move back
• Sidelined for 16 games – and counting
• Spaniard has only made 21 appearances but scored 7 goals and assisted 5
• Espanyol interested in permanent move, Arsenal want loan

Despite Lucas’ agent claiming that he’s happy at Arsenal, the forward has been linked with a move away less than a year after moving to north London from Deportivo for £17m.

The 28-year-old has been said to want more playing time in the hope of getting picked of Spain’s World Cup squad next year, which objectively makes sense, but when you consider that he’s spent 16 games (and counting) sidelined through injury, it seems a little odd.

Now, there’s talk of the Spaniard going on loan to La Liga side, Espanyol.

According to Catalan newspaper, Sport [via Sport Witness], Arsenal are far more likely to loan him out than sell him. He’s proven he’s capable in front of goal and can be brilliant for the squad when fit. Therefore, the Gunners have no need to completely push him out of the club. Not yet, at least.

Espanyol, however, as well as other Spanish clubs, are reportedly after a more permanent move as it’s unlikely they’d pay a loan fee and wages just to hand him back.