OPINION
Newcastle United should seriously consider making a move for Espanyol playmaker Hernan Perez this summer.
Spanish radio station RAC 1 claimed that Espanyol manager Quique Sanchez Flores has informed the 28-year-old that he is no longer required at the Catalan club for the upcoming campaign.
The report claims that the newly-promoted La Liga side Getafe want to sign the Paraguayan on loan but Espanyol are desperate to offload him on a permanent deal.
The Magpies have already added attacking players to the squad this summer by acquiring the likes of Christian Atsu and Jacob Murphy but Perez would an ideal addition as he offers the team with great versatility.
The attacking midfielder is comfortable playing on either flank and he has shown that he can be very effective in the role just behind the main striker.
Newcastle owner Mike Ashley recently mentioned in a candid interview with Sky Sports that the club do not have “enough funds” in the transfer window this summer and given that Perez has reportedly been told to leave, they would not need to splash big money to land Paraguay international.
Although Perez might not a well-known player in England, Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has demonstrated in the past that he has been able to unearth some fine players with the likes of Lucas, Luis Garcia, Pepe Reina and Daniel Agger coming to mind.
Benitez will have a fine knowledge of potential talent in the Spanish top-flight following his coaching spells in the league and it is highly plausible that he will be aware of the Perez situation.
The Paraguayan is not a natural goalscorer, notching up 11 goals in two seasons, but he is always willing to take on defenders and his direct style will surely be a hit amongst the Newcastle supporters.
The playmaker helped Espanyol secure a finish in the top eight last season – the first time they have managed this feat since the 2010-11 campaign.
The St James’ Park faithful will certainly be thrilled if Perez can help Newcastle secure a top-half finish in their return back to the Premier League.
Newcastle should at least test the waters and make an approach for the midfielder before the transfer window comes to an end.