Lucas Perez has revealed that Arsenal sanctioned his move to Deportivo La Coruna despite favouring other options.
The Spanish forward joined the club in a reported £17 Million move only last summer, but after a lack of opportunities, decided he had to play elsewhere for the new campaign.
Lucas made his intentions that he wanted to return to La Liga this summer, preferably with former club Deportivo, but a return was not favoured by the Gunners.
Arsenal had received more valuable offers from Everton and Newcastle to take the 28 year-old on loan, but the player made it clear that La Coruña was where he wanted to be.
Lucas said upon his unveiling back at Depor: “I’m where I want to be.
“I have a right to decide what is going to happen with my future and what I want to do.
“Arsenal understood that and I’m grateful to them. They understood my situation and the fact that I wanted to return home.
“Arsenal defended their own interests, they initially didn’t want me to return to Deportivo.
“They have reached agreements with many clubs but I clearly told them that my intention was to join Depor and no other alternative.”
He added: “I have always said that money doesn’t give me happiness. I move based on my emotions.
“When I went to Arsenal, it was a good decision, even though they didn’t give me opportunities.”
Many Gunners wanted Lucas to play more often last season, having impressed during his limited appearances, but Arsene Wenger opted to leave him benched for a large number of matches, leaving him frustrated.
With the World Cup coming up next summer, Perez will be keen to play regularly in hope of returning to the Spain international squad, and must believe he will have his best chance to do so with Depor.
Did Lucas get a fair chance with us last year? Could he return after his loan spell?
Pat J