Arsenal have had a bid of £16.9m rejected by Deportivo for striker Lucas Perez, according to the Daily Mail.
Perez has been a target for both Arsenal and Everton, and it is thought that the bid rejection could allow Everton to sneak back ahead in the race for his signature. Lucas is believed to favour a move to Arsenal due to the prospect of Champions League football, which is unavailable at Everton.
It is understood that the reason for the bid being rejected is how Arsenal want to pay the fee. The Gunners are looking to meet Perez’s release clause in two separate instalments, however, Deportivo are demanding that the price is paid up front in full.
Lucas signed for Deportivo in August 2015, and since then has made 59 appearances, scoiting 29 goals. He scored in Deportivo’s 2-1 opening game of the season win against SD Eibar, and assisted the other goal.
