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Former Arsenal forward Lucas Perez has been sidelined indefinitely after being diagnosed with active tuberculosis just weeks after signing for PSV Eindhoven. The Dutch club confirmed the news, assuring that no other squad members have been affected.

The 36-year-old, who joined PSV last month on a short-term deal following his fourth stint at Deportivo La Coruña, is currently in quarantine. It remains uncertain whether he will feature again this season, as Peter Bosz’s side continues their pursuit of the Eredivisie title, trailing leaders Ajax by six points.

PSV have taken immediate steps to contain any potential risk, working closely with public health authorities (GGD Brabant-Zuidoost) to implement contact tracing and ensure standard health protocols are followed.

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In an official statement, the club said: “One PSV player has been diagnosed with active tuberculosis. The player in question is doing well under the circumstances. Although the chance of further infection is small, the situation is being closely monitored according to GGD standard protocols.”

The club added that all necessary precautions have been taken, including informing those who may have been in contact with Perez. Pulmonologist Pascal Wielders, affiliated with GGD Brabant-Zuidoost, explained that while tuberculosis is an infectious disease that primarily affects the lungs, the risk of transmission remains low, particularly in open-air environments.

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PSV have assured that it will continue to support Perez during his recovery while requesting privacy for the player. Any significant updates will be communicated through the club’s official channels.

Perez, who signed for Arsenal in 2016, struggled to make an impact in North London, scoring just once before being loaned back to Deportivo. He later joined West Ham in 2018 but lasted only a season before returning to Spain.

He was an unexpected £17 million signing by Arsène Wenger, arriving as a late summer window addition that appeared more reactive than strategic. Despite limited chances, Lucas Perez made an impact when called upon, tallying seven goals and five assists in 21 appearances across all competitions. However, he was never fully integrated into the team, which seemingly had no clear tactical role for him.

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