Ayoze Perez Reveals Desire to Return to Spain One Day & Discusses Tottenham Links
Newcastle United forward Ayoze Perez has spoken of his wish to play in La Liga someday.
Perez joined Newcastle in 2014 from second division side Tenerife for a fee of around £1.8m, accumulating 42 goals and 17 assists in all competitions for the Magpies since. The 25-year-old's contract expires in the summer of 2021, and his latest comments will intensify rumours linking him with a move elsewhere.
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Speaking to Marca, Perez explained: ''I am very grateful to Newcastle, but it is obvious that someday I would like to come back and play in La Liga.''
Asked about links to the likes of Tottenham and Everton, he replied: "To this day, I do not know. I hope something very good. I believe that I have done well in these five years so that a good opportunity presents itself."
Perez has been a key player for Newcastle this season, scoring seven and assisting four while being a regular starter for Benitez. Calls have grown for the forward to receive a call up for the Spanish national team, primarily from former Liverpool attacker Luis Garcia, who believes that Perez has earned his opportunity.
Addressing Luis' comments, Perez stated: ''I appreciate the words of Luis Garcia. We know how big it is and it means a lot to me [receiving a call up for Spain]. He sees me play and he knows that I have not always been able to develop my football, how much I sacrifice myself and that, in the five years that I have been here, I have always tried to give the maximum.''
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Continuing to speak on his possible inclusion in the upcoming Spain squad selection for games against Norway and Malta, Perez insisted: ''I work to be there some day. Obviously, I know it's complimented because there are many players but I try to make merits so they can see what I can be.''
Asked if he felt ready to play for Spain, he persisted: ''Of course. I am ready and with a tremendous hope of being able to see myself in a squad of Spain. It would be incredible for me. I, in any case, keep fighting. I hope it happens.''
