Arsenal starlets Fran Merida and Carlos Vela are both being
linked with season-long loan moves to Spain.
18-year-old Mexican, Vela, signed for Arsenal in 2005 after they
beat a host of Europe's top clubs to his signature.
However, because he is not a full international, he is not eligible
for a work-permit to play in England and so he has spent his entire
Arsenal career on loan, firstly with Celta Vigo and then with
Salamanca last term.
Vela now looks set for another long-term loan with Levante, Osasuna
and Almeria all chasing his signature.
If, as expected, Vela does agree another temporary move, it will
likely be his last as he is expected to qualify for an EU passport
in January next year.
Merida, 17, is already being branded as the 'new' Cesc Fabregas,
having arrived at the club in similar fashion, following his
decision to quit Barcelona's youth ranks for North London last
year.
Merida (pictured) was being tipped by some to make the breakthrough
in to the first-team picture this coming season, but reports claim
he could be offered on loan - and a string of Primera Liga clubs
are ready to take him with newly promoted Almeria again keen along
with Atletico Madrid.
Merida admits he would agree to whatever manager Arsene Wenger felt
was best for him.
"I will be happy to do whatever Arsenal want me to," Merida is
quoted in the Daily Mirror.
"But my dream is to play with them in the Premiership."