Arsenal striker attracts interest from Premier League rivals

After not having the first team opportunities that he would have expected upon signing for Arsenal, striker Lucas Perez could exit the Emirates this summer, after just one season. However, he may still be in the Premier League, as fellow Londoners West Ham United are showing signs of interest in the Spaniard. 

West Ham have steadied the ship after a poor start to the season, having been dangerously close to the relegation places. They have however struggled to find a consistent goalscorer, with winger Michail Antonio being the club's top scorer with nine goals. Slaven Bilic will no doubt look to solve this issue in the summer, and The Times today suggests that Perez will be his target. 

There has also been plenty of speculation that Andy Carrol will depart the club at the end of the season, meaning that West Ham would have even more reason to be on the hunt for a new striker. 

Perez has been given just two starts in the Premier League this season, however, when he has been given chances, mainly in cup competitions, he has performed, scoring six goals and assisting five. 

Doubt may be cast on West Ham's interest though, as Arsenal turned down a bid of £26million from the Chinese Super League in January. This would suggest that the Gunners would like to keep hold of Perez, and if not, he won't be cheap.