Vela, who spent three unproductive years in North London between 2008-12 (largely out on loan), has been a revelation for the La Liga outfit, and scored 21 times in 52 appearances last season, while also bagging 13 assists.
When selling the now 25-year-old to Sociedad in 2012, Arsenal inserted a buyback clause into the deal that took him to Spain. Thought to be £3.5m, the Gunners are primed to activate the clause, and make the Mexican their first summer signing.
Real Sociedad president, Jokin Aperribay, was quoted as telling the Spanish radio station ‘Cadena SER’ (via the Guardian): “Arsenal have informed us that Vela would be with them next season.”
Vela is fondly remembered in the Premier League for his audacious tendency to lob keepers, with this goal against Sheffield Wednesday one of his very best!
Written by Steve Milne
