Arsenal are set to sign Carlos Vela by activating his €4million buy-back clause according to a report in Spanish media outlet Marca. He will become the Gunners first summer signing if indeed a deal is concluded.
The report in Marca on Thursday read: ‘Carlos Vela looks set to re-join Arsenal or at least is very close to doing so, as the Gunners have contacted Real Sociedad informing the latter of their intention to activate the €4 million buy-back clause in Vela’s contract.’
There were also reports earlier this week suggesting Arsenal would use the clause to help sign Vela’s Sociedad teammate Antionne Griezmann in a cut-price deal.
A few weeks ago Vela said he ‘expected’ Arsenal to activate his buy-back clause this summer. He told press: “During the last two summers, Arsenal were not interested in activating it, so we had no trouble, it makes sense they will activate the clause now. A club that sees that a player is performing well for three years and has the chance of having him back for just an extra few million. If Arsenal wouldn’t pay that amount they wouldn’t be very intelligent. ”
His versatility is attractive, as a player who can play on the last man and be played through, or as a more creative winger, whether it be on the left, or an inverted one, and he would offer an upgrade on Sanogo as backup for Giroud, who looked in need of a rest towards the end of March. His finishing has improved much since his Arsenal days, when a delicate chip was his trademark, but he frustrated fans with his profligacy; all change this season, scoring 14 league goals from 61 shots, a fine record. His fitness record is near impeccable this season, playing 34 of Sociedad’s 35 league games this season. Additionally he has the benefit of knowing the club, and he’s definitely come on a lot since he left Arsenal, as a player, especially with his decision making and movement.
Vela would make a good signing for Arsenal. He’s matured and has an impressive goal record for a 25-year-old. For £3.3 million he could make a good squad player, aswell as a great bargain for Arsenal; being able to play anywhere along the front line. He would provide a different option when the Gunners are all out of ideas. Overall, this could quite turn out to be a brilliant signing for the North London club.
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Photo via Wonker