Arsenal: Scouting Report for Gunners Transfer Target Wellington Nem

The link between Premier League side Arsenal and Wellington Nem may not be red-hot at present, but any opportunity to rule the roost over one of Brazil's most prodigious talents is always appreciated, right?

In truth, it had been first reported back in April this year that the Gunners had sent their scouts to monitor the progress of Fluminense attacking midfielder Nem, but this past weekend suggestions of a January move for the youngster resurfaced, much to the delight of those who are well aware of his potential.

The Brazilian club's sporting director, Marcelo Teixeira, spoke to reporters about the prized asset, claiming "Wellington Nem will be one of the great stars of world football, no doubt. He really loves this club and deserves everything that happens to him now." (via Sambafoot)

Having spent the majority of 2011 on loan at Figueirense, Nem scored nine goals in 25 league appearances, often playing in a second-forward role, or at times pushed out to the flanks.

Amongst his tally was a twisting, turning Goal of the Week stunner against Gremio that put the country's biggest names on notice.

He won plaudits for his performances in the Serie A, beating Leandro Damiao to Brazil's Best Young Player award for the season, and earning his first cap for the Brazilian national team not long after returning to Fluminense.

Now forming a devastating partnership with former Lyon striker Fred, the 20-year-old scored three in September, as the Tricolor Carioca continued to stamp their dominance on the domestic scene.

Towering in at 5'5", Nem uses his diminutive stature to his advantage in the face of bigger, stronger opponents.

He possesses blistering pace with excellent ball control and dribbling skills. Capable of putting a pass on a needle, the creativity and vision of the youngster should not go unacknowledged either.

London rivals Tottenham Hotspur have been linked to the player this past year, as the club seeks to extend its Brazilian network (via Daily Mail).

According to the same report, he has "been watched most recently by Juventus and CSKA Moscow" as well.

Possible drawbacks? Nem has been flying into tackles rather recklessly in recent games, and would certainly need to develop his crossing and strength too were he to transition effectively to British football.

But unlike many of his contemporaries in the Serie A, his boundless energy and positive attitude to the game is sustained for the full 90 minutes, and carries over into midweek training as well.

Though he will most likely never captain a high-profile side, he would prove a positive influence in the dressing room, at least once he learns a basic knowledge of the English language.

Of course, with Santi Cazorla currently occupying the position that Nem would most ideally play, as well as there being several promising youngsters in Arsenal's reserve, if Nem were to move to the Emirates in the coming months, competition for a place in the starting lineup would be fierce.

But based on his current ability and sensational potential, Arsene Wenger could do little worse than add another young jewel to the club's already glittering crown.

He'll naturally have to fend off interest from Europe's best to do so though, but a player of Wellington Nem's quality is always worth fighting for.

What is your impression of the youngster Wellington Nem? Although his may not be the position Arsenal are currently in need of, would a transfer help safeguard the future for the Gunners?

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