Arsenal are understood to have struck deals for South
American starlets Angel Di Maria and Pedro Silva.
The news has emerged via Spain, as The Gunners have already agreed
a deal with Salamanca to take the two teenagers on loan - in a
similar move to the one which saw Mexican Carlos Vela move on a
temporary basis last season.
Gilles Grimandi, one of Arsene Wenger's most trusted scouts, cast
his eye over both and is understood to have given glowing
references.
Di Maria (pictured) is very highly rated in his homeland and is
part of the Argentina Under 20 squad which has made the semi-finals
at the World Championship in Canada.
'The Little Angel', as he is known, has scored two goals in four
games and is one of the stars of the tournament so far.
It is now understood that Arsenal have brokered a deal with his
club Rosario Central and the 19-year-old will link up with The
Gunners later this month.
However, because he does not meet work-permit criteria - he is
ready to spend the season with Salamanca, who are more than happy
to take the left winger following Vela's successful stay at the
club.
Di Maria will also have company in the shape of Pedro - a
17-year-old forward from Brazil.
Pedro is currently with Figueirense - who Arsenal have had talks
with about a co-operation agreement.
Pedro has already made his first-team debut and was first spotted
by Arsenal's South American scout Sandro Orlandelli some months
ago.
Some reports claim Pedro has already had a trial with The Gunners,
and he now seems to have done enough to earn a move to North London
- but he is also set to spend the season in Spain.
Salamanca are hopeful of confirming the arrival of both players
later this week.
