Arsenal Loanee Wellington Silva Granted Spanish Passport That Allows Him to Complete in Premier League

Brazilian starlet Wellington Silva has revealed he now has the relevant paperwork necessary to play for Arsenal next season.

The forward has been on the Gunners' books since 2011 after initially impressing the club during his early outings for Brazilian club Fluminense's youth side.

Arsenal had to wait until the player turned 18 before they could agree a deal but Silva has been unable to make a competitive appearance for the club due to work permit complications.

The 21-year-old has instead spent the last three years on a succession of loan spells at clubs across Spain, joining La Liga side Almeria on a season-long loan deal in July.

Speaking to Spanish daily AS, Silva has confirmed a breakthrough has been reached after he received a Spanish passport and is now free to return to Arsenal at the start of next season.

But the Brazilian insists he will not let his long-term future distract him from his current obligations with Almeria, who currently sit 13<sup>th in the league.

"It is very important for me," Silva said upon receiving the relevant paperwork. "I could go back to Arsenal next season if [Arsene] Wenger wants me to.

"But I am not going to worry about my future and my only desire right now is to help Almeria preserve their La Liga status. At this moment, I am focused on the present."

Silva has spent time out on loan at Levante, Alcoyano, Ponferradina and Murcia – where he scored three goals last season. He is yet to get off the mark at Almeria this term.

Speaking in December 2013, Silva was confident of securing the documents needed in time to play for Arsenal this season only to miss the deadline.

"The process to the get the passport is already under way," he told the Brazilian media.

"The pre-season in England starts in July and I'll have a passport by then.

"I hope to have the opportunity to achieve my dream of playing for Arsenal. The team is strong and I hope to fit in well."