Despite being tipped as such a promising prospect for the last few years, it looks as though Carlos Vela’s Arsenal career is almost over before it has really begun. The 23-year-old is currently in discussions with Real Sociedad about a permanent transfer, after Arsene Wenger confirmed that he would allow the player to leave.
A switch to Real Sociedad certainly wouldn’t be unfamiliar for Vela, who spent the entire 2011/12 season on loan at the club. There have been rumours linking him with a permanent switch to Spain, yet there has nothing official been announced until today.
The Gunners have confirmed that Vela is talking with Sociedad officials about a permanent switch. An official statement read, “Carlos Vela is in San Sebastian for final discussions about a permanent move to Spanish La Liga side Real Sociedad.”
A move away from the Emirates Stadium would certainly be a disappointing end to Vela’s career after so much was expected from him in his early years. Following some prolific form at reserve team level, there was hope that he could replicate that in the first team. However, after failing to establish himself in Arsene Wenger’s plans, the Mexican has been farmed out on loan on numerous occasions with the likes of West Brom, Salamanca and Osasuna all benefiting from his services. In total, he managed to score just three goals for the Gunners’ first team, after initially joining as a 16-year-old.
There has been little speculation regarding the transfer fee, although it is very unlikely to be anything substantial. It is understood that Real Sociedad were the only serious suitors of the player and after he managed a somewhat successful spell at the club following twelve goals last term, Vela has made no secret of his desire to play with the club on a permanent basis.
