Arsene's Found A Little Angel

Reports have emerged from Spain and Argentina that Arsenal have moved for South American starlets Angel Di Maria and Pedro (no, not Pedrooooooo the bus driver, from a Lee Evans sketch).

Arsenal are yet to confirm a deal for the young duo but a deal has been put in place to take them both to one of Arsenal's feeder clubs Salamanca, as neither meet Home Office requirments for a work permit.

The Spanish second Division side had a similar deal with Arsenal last year when they took Mexican whizkid Carlos Vela on loan for a year in order for him to be eligable for a British work permit.

So, what do we know about the young duo? Well the answer is simple - very little.

Angel Di Maria, nicknamed 'The Little Angel' is a 19-year-old left winger, who can also play up front, currently playing for Argentina in the U-20 World Cup in Canada, scoring 3 goals in 5 games.

He plays for Argentine side Rosario Central and is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in his native land at this time. his official blog reported a couple of weeks ago that he was to sign for Arsenal, a report rubbished my many of our forum members, myself included.

Giles Grimandi, one of Arsene Wenger's most trusted scouts, has been watching him at the Under-20 world cup and has been very impressed indeed by the youngster. The fee is reported to be around £2Million.

See a video of him on youtube here: Di Maria

Even less is known about Pedro Silva. depending on what you read he's a striker, left winger, centre midfielder or left back. With a bit of luck, he's all of them!

A 17-year-old Brazilian, playing for Arsenal's latest feeder club - Fluminense. As well as not being able to get a work permit in this country, Brazilian rules dictate that he may not leave Brazil for any country other than Portugal before he turns 18.

So, to get round it The Gunners have had the youngster on trial where he got to see Arsenal's facilities and meet his future team mates. He was unveiled as a Salamanca this week but will have to return to Brazil until October, when he will be 18. He will then spend the remainder of the season with the spanish club, before Arsene Wenger decides if the youngster should come back to Arsenal, or spend more time on loan.

N.B. I can't find a video of Pedro Silva, so if anyone else can, please post a link. Thanks.

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