Saturday 12 July 2014 16:37, UK
Arsenal starlet Wellington Silva is set to join Spanish side Almeria on loan next season, Sky Sports understands.
The highly-rated attacker has been forced to spend time out on loan since joining Arsenal in January 2010 from Fluminense due to work permit issues.
After failing to qualify for a work permit, Silva has taken in spells at Spanish clubs Levante, Alcoyano, Ponferradina and Murcia.
Silva is highly regarded at Arsenal and they are hopeful of finally getting clearance for the player to make the move to north London next year.
Arsenal have now agreed a deal for the forward to spend next season on loan at Almeria with the Brazilian in line to gain Spanish citizenship in the next year.
The player's agent, Alex Soares, has confirmed Silva will spend next season at Almeria before returning to Arsenal for the 2015/16 season.
"A deal has been agreed between Arsenal and Almeria for Wellington Silva to go on loan for the season," Soares told Sky Sports.
"He had the choice to go to a number of teams in Spain, but Silva has decided to join Almeria.
"He will fly to Spain next week to complete the paperwork to join Almeria for next season.
"We are hopeful that, after this loan at Almeria, Silva will be able to return to play for Arsenal and they will monitor his progress in Spain next season."
