The Mexican youngster had caught the eye in the 2005 FIFA U-17 World Championships where he was named the top scorer of the tournament with 5 goals and claimed the Adidas Golden boot.
A striker 'in the Eduardo mould' according to Arsene Wenger, Vela agreed a £2.5 million switch from Guadalajara in 2005, signing a five-year contract. However, due to English work permit restrictions for non-EU citizens which prevented him from playing in England, he was quickly loaned out to Celta de Vigo in February 2006.
After failing to make much of an impression at Celta, Vela was loaned out for the 2006/07 season to UD Salamanca, in the Spanish second division.
During a good season, Vela scored eight and created many of the side's 53 goals. Bigger clubs showed an interest as he was still ineligable to play for Arsenal, and for the 2007/08 season he was loaned to Osasuna.
In the season he scored three goals and played a part in their successful battle against the drop and big things are now expected of the 19-year-old.
His return to Arsenal for 2008/09 saw manager Arsene Wenger confirm that Vela would be involved with the first team next season.
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