Arsenal Manager Arsene Wenger Reveals Carlos Vela Loan Move Is Imminent

Wenger could also look for centre-back on loan.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has revealed Carlos Vela is close to a short-term loan move.

Wenger has previously said he would like the Mexican to move on loan to gain first-team experience, and he has admitted a deal for the 21-year-old could be imminent.

But while insisting a deal has not yet been made, the Frenchman admits the forward may be leaving the club on a short-term basis very soon.

"There's nothing done at the moment, no," Wenger told the club's website.

"But that could be sorted by Wednesday or Thursday.

Vela has already been on loan to Spanish clubs, Salamanca and Osasuna, since joining Arsenal in 2005, and seems to favour a move to Spain once more.

"Personally, I wish [he would go to a Premier League club] because he's a great player and it will be easier for me to follow his progress but he is attracted by Spanish football because it is his home language," said Wenger.

"But hopefully we can find a good solution for him in England."

One option could be Bolton, with Owen Coyle known to be interested in the Mexico international, having taken Arsenal's Jack Wilshire on loan last season.

Wenger also admitted he may look to bring in a centre-back on loan, while Thomas Vermaelen remains sidelined with an Achilles injury that has kept him out since August.

"Basically that would be the best solution for us because what do you do with five centre-backs?"