Rafael Benitez Asks Arsenal for Status of Out-of-Favour Duo as Spaniard Plots Quality Boost

Newcastle have asked Arsenal about the status for out of favour players, Jack Wilshere and Lucas Perez as the Magpies want to bring the two players to St James'

Newcastle have asked Arsenal about the status for out of favour players, Jack Wilshere and Lucas Perez as the Magpies want to bring the two players to St James' Park. 

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has already told Lucas Perez he can leave the club after saying he can't promise the Spaniard much playing time with an already congested attack force.

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The Daily Mirror are reporting that Benitez is turning his attention to North London to prise away two of Arsenal's players that are surplus to Wenger's requirements. Perez arrived at the Emirates from Deportivo for £17m and hasn't hit the ground running with the little playing time he's been given by Wenger. 

Jack Wilshere spent last season on loan to Bournemouth, where he went with the ambition to get his injury stricken career back on track. Arsenal want £20m for Wilshere and will not loan him out for another season, whereas as Perez is open for a loan move. 

Benitez has already said he's frustrated with Newcastle's transfer window after not being given the backing by the owners to sign the players he wants. The Northerners kicked off their Premier League campaign with a loss to Tottenham. 

Jonjo Shelvey was given a straight red card for a stamp on Dele Alli and the game swung in Spurs' favour from then on. Wilshere's Premier League experience can give Newcastle some stability in their inexperienced midfield and Lucas Perez will be itching for more playing time.