Wenger hopes to add Vela

Mexican could play for Gunners after work permit application

By James Dall   Last updated: 16th May 2008

Carlos Vela

Vela: Work permit application

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has confirmed that the club has applied for a work permit for Carlos Vela.

Vela, who permanently signed for The Gunners at the beginning of 2007, is currently on loan at Primera Division side Osasuna.

And after three separate loan spells in Spain, Wenger has applied for a work permit in a bid to ensure the 19-year-old Mexico international plays at Emirates Stadium next season.

"We have applied for a work permit for him now," said Wenger on the club's official website. "And he will be involved with the first team next season.

"He has played the whole season at Osasuna on the left wing and he had to work hard there. But for me it is not his position - he is a central striker, an Eduardo type."