Lucas Perez to Villa? It might not be as crazy as it sounds
Lucas Perez, formerly of Arsenal, is now struggling for gametime at West Ham. So could the Championship be a good destination for the striker?
When we signed Perez on the cheap in the summer, I thought it was a great deal. He has top technique and had shown glimpses at decent clubs, why not shine at West Ham? Well it turns out that he’s just not good enough, or possessing the qualities necessary in the Premier League. But he could do it in the Championship.
Aston Villa are a historic club trying to get back to former glory. After coming close a few times in the Championship they are searching for firepower to help them this time round. Thwy were after Tammy Abraham but it fell through, so there are now links putting them with Perez. And that could work.
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Perez is still a decent striker, but he doesn’t seem have the tools to succeed in the Premier League. He did well when he went back to Spain still, but in the UK there is a more physical aspect. With the Championship being a step down, they don’t need all the characteristics of a Premier League striker. But his technique is impeccable and his passing solid.
Aston Villa are a side that want their shot at the Premier League again, and I do think Perez will be able to help them. The biggest obstacle is if the Spaniard would drop down that far. If he is to leave the club this transfer window, he would want to be in the top league of his country. This is a man who Arsenal bought for over 20m only a few seasons ago.
This is probably a move that won’t end up happening because why should a player drop down a division only a few months after joining a premier league team? He still has desire to compete for trophies and be in the top division, even if he would play regularly at a Championship club. And given his recent performances, that’s the standard he is.