2. Carlos Vela
This one is developing into a transfer saga already. Arsenal have a £3.5million buy-back clause they can activate at any time, and as Vela himself said ‘they’d be stupid not to’. Vela has been in incredible form over the last two seasons for Real Sociedad and has matured into a top quality striker – he deserves another chance at Arsenal.
The Sociedad president, Jokin Aperribay, was quoted as telling the radio station Cadena SER: “Arsenal have informed us that Vela would be with them next season.” If true, there shouldn’t be too much holding this up. It seems Arsenal might be waiting on other targets before pushing through a move. If it is true Arsenal are likely to hold more talks with Vela and his representatives this week, with the contract details the only thing that could hold up this deal. Sociedad can do little to resist a move, although as Aperribay mentioned – Vela has a desire to stay in Spain and so if the Mexican does not agree to the contract – Arsenal will not be able to sign him for the bargain price.