Bye Bye Melo, Hello Banega

(Photo by Phillip MacCallum/ Getty Images)

After some Melo drama, Arsene Wenger has set his sights on another South American youth.

Here are some stats about the player who is currently enjoying Wenger's praise:

Name: Éver Maximiliano David Banega 

Nationality: Argentinian.

Date of Birth: 29 June 1988.

Age: 21 years.

Height: 5 ft 8.5 in.

Current Club: Athletico Madrid (on loan from Valencia).

Position: Central Midfielder.

Price: 5 Million Pounds.

Banega came through the youth ranks at Boca Juniors, reaching the first team at 18, and winning immediate recognition thanks to his passing average and his performances in the first division. After teammate midfielder Fernando Gago moved to Real Madrid in January 2007, Banega was named as his successor, despite his young age.

Banega made his debut for the Argentina national team, in a 5-0 friendly win over Guatemala, on February 6, 2008, which he started.

Banega was also called up for the Olympic team and helped Argentina to the gold medal.

And it is rumoured that Liverpool would give Arsenal tough competition, as both clubs are chasing the signature of the young and talented Argentinian.

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