With three of Arsenal’s attacking options potentially heading for the exit this month, will the Gunners consider bringing Lucas Perez back from his loan spell at Deportivo?
With Alexis Sanchez almost definitely signing for Manchester United this week and Theo Walcott’s move to Everton set to go ahead, Arsenal could be left without many attacking options going into the second half of the campaign.
Although the Gunners are said to be after Bordeaux forward, Malcom and Borussia Dortmund’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang in exchange for Olivier Giroud, Arsenal would still be short in the final third.
It was reported earlier in the month that Arsenal could recall Lucas from his loan spell at former club Deportivo if they need more options going forward, and with everyone running for the exit this might be a very real possibility… if not necessity.
Feliz por volver a entrenar con mis compañeros #DaleDÉ @RCDeportivo pic.twitter.com/Fcss3alfzS
— Lucas Pérez (@LP10oficial) January 11, 2018
Giroud is not only being linked with a move to the Bundesliga, but the 31-year-old’s lack of game time has made him look certain to leave for months. The only fly in the ointment has been his recent hamstring injury.
Lucas’ has contributed eight goals in 18 appearances in all competitions this season. During his time in north London, he managed seven goals and assisted five in 21 appearances.
In the summer, Arsene Wenger allegedly wanted to keep the Spaniard and sell Giroud, so it makes sense that this could still be the plan. Arsenal only signed Lucas for £17m in 2016 after all.
Quick attempt to answer some Qs on #AFC window. Likes of @SwissRamble @AST_arsenal far better & more forensic on finances + results/AGM soon pic.twitter.com/LSDoAfZ1kp
— David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) September 4, 2017
Plus, bringing back Lucas would be much cheaper than buying another forward. Wenger does love the thrifty alternative to signing new players.