Arsenal first contacted Lucas in July

Lucas Pérez has revealed Arsenal first contacted him about a move when the transfer window opened two months ago.

The Spanish forward completed his £17million move to north London on Tuesday, but Arsenal’s interest was registered at the beginning of July.

“There was some contact when the transfer window opened,” revealed Lucas. “As always in football, clubs have to evaluate what they need, but they showed interest when they got in contact.

“Things happened more quickly towards the end of the window so it could be made official.

“I was really happy and flattered when I heard about Arsenal’s interest. I was very hopeful to get the chance to come here.”