West Ham acquires Arsenal forward Lucas Perez

Aug. 9 (UPI) -- West Ham United has acquired Arsenal forward Lucas Perez.

The clubs announced the three-year deal on Thursday. Perez, 29, joined the Gunners in 2016.

"Today I would like to thank Arsenal fans for their support, they always showed me affection and love from the first time I arrived in London," Perez posted on social media. "I also want to give my thinks to my teammates and to the staff of this club for giving me the opportunity to make my debut in one of the best leagues in the world and win the FA Cup."

"I wish you all the best for the future and I hope you can go on and achieve great things."

Perez began his senior career in 2007 on Atletico Madrid's C team. He joined the Ray Vallecano B team in 2009 before joining Rayo Vallecano in 2010. Perez also had stops at Karpaty Lviv, Dynamo Kyiv, PAOK, and Deportivo La Coruna before landing at Arsenal.

Perez scored eight goals in 35 La Liga showings last season while on loan at Deportivo. He had seven scores in 21 games for Arsenal.

"We welcome Lucas to West Ham United," West Ham director of football Mario Husillos said in a release from the club. "He is a very experienced player that Manuel and I both know well from Spain."

"He has great technical quality, and can play as both the main striker or the second striker in a deeper role. He scores goals, but can also create them and link well with the midfielders."

West Ham begins its Premier League season on Sunday against Liverpool. The club battles Arsenal on Aug. 25 in London.