Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has confirmed his eagerness to bring Arsenal outcast Lucas Perez to St James’ Park.

Standard Sport first revealed the Magpies' interest in Lucas on Monday, though it is understood Newcastle would prefer a loan deal than to match Arsenal’s £13.4million price tag.

Benitez is not alone in chasing the 28-year-old. Deportivo La Coruna have bid £9m for their former striker whilst Sevilla, Fenerbahce and an unnamed Bundesliga side have also approached Lucas over a move.

However Newcastle can offer Lucas regular first-team football and a chance to prove himself in the Premier League after a season in which he struggled for regular opportunities, scoring seven goals and providing six assists across 21 appearances.

“I like the player because I have good friends in A Coruna,” Benitez said after Newcastle’s 2-0 win over Hellas Verona.

“I know that he did really well. He’s come here and not played in many games, but I like the player.

“We know what we need and will try to do it until the end of the transfer window.

“We are now trying to work in different directions at the time.”