Arsenal Transfer News: Latest on Lucas Perez and Jack Wilshere Rumours

New Arsenal forward Lucas Perez has revealed the club had been keeping tabs on him since January before swooping to bring him on board this summer.

The former Deportivo La Coruna star's arrival has bolstered the Gunners’ options at the point of the attack. Speaking at a farewell press conference in Spain, Perez stated Arsenal made their interest in him known after his fine start to the 2015-16 campaign, per Uche Amako of the Daily Express.

"The Arsenal offer came just days before the end of the transfer window," he said. "But I knew about the interest of Arsenal for a long time. They showed interest in me during the January transfer window, but then I couldn't leave."

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The striker enjoyed two seasons with the Spanish club, the first of which was spent on loan before a permanent move was agreed in 2015.

Perez delighted plenty at the Estadio Riazor. Deportivo have always placed a high emphasis on attitude, industry and quality; they were traits epitomised by the striker during his time with the club. Here’s a look at why the supporters loved him so much:

According to Ed Malyon and John Cross of the Daily Mirror, Arsenal weren’t too sure on whether to move for Perez in this window, but they acted when Everton looked to have struck a deal for the 27-year-old. As we can see, courtesy of WhoScored.com, he’ll certainly bring a vital incision to the Gunners attack:

There’ll be pressure on Perez to perform. Arsenal supporters have long awaited the arrival of a new centre-forward, and while the Spaniard may not be an illustrious name, there’ll be plenty of expectation on him to deliver. The Gunners hierarchy will hope their longstanding interest in the striker was warranted.

David Beckham Offered Jack Wilshere Loan Advice

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According to John Cross of the Daily Mirror, Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere took advice from former Manchester United and Real Madrid star David Beckham before making his loan move to AFC Bournemouth.

As noted in the piece, the likes of AC Milan, AS Roma and Crystal Palace were interested in securing the services of the midfielder in a temporary deal. It’s suggested “Beckham offered Jack Wilshere a few words of wisdom” before he made his decision, with the ex-England captain getting in touch on the phone.

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It’s a key point in Wilshere’s career, as he’ll have a chance to become an important part of the Cherries side and get some regular football under his belt. The England international only played 141 minutes in the Premier League last season because of injury problems.

For Bournemouth, the move represents a major coup. As noted by BT Sport commentator Ian Darke, the switch is a sign of just how attractive the Premier League has become:

For the 24-year-old to receive advice from Beckham would have been helpful.

Ultimately, the player needs to show consistency at the Vitality Stadium—not just in terms of his quality, that’s rarely been doubted, but also his fitness. Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe will hope a succession of games can add a durability to Wilshere’s game, which is critical if he’s to have a long-term future with Arsenal.