Arsenal Transfer News: Wellington Silva Boost, Stephan El Shaarawy Open to Move

Forgotten Arsenal signing Wellington Silva has suggested he may finally link up with Arsene Wenger's first-team squad next season, which, if reports are to be believed, could include AC Milan forward Stephan El Shaarawy.

Wellington—who signed from Brazilian club Fluminense in 2011—is currently working through his fifth loan spell in four seasons. He resides with La Liga club Almeria, having completed short-term placements with other Spanish clubs Levante, Alcoyano, Ponferradina and Real Murcia.

You can see his qualities below:

His progress has been held up due to his inability to get an English work permit, but upon finally receiving his documentation, Wellington is confident he can make an impression next season.

"It's a dream for me to play there," he said, per Jamie Sanderson of the Metro. "Arsenal is a great club. Unfortunately this was not possible because of these administrative concerns, but I'm ready now. If all goes well, I'll be out there next season."

The versatile winger has posted three assists in a struggling Almeria side this season, per WhoScored.com. He is a skillful player, someone who doesn't lack confidence, but he's yet to truly make an impact on the European scene.

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Arsene Wenger already has a number of exciting young attacking players at his disposal. The likes of Serge Gnabry, Joel Campbell and Chuba Akpom most likely sit ahead of Wellington in the pecking order. Considering none of these starlets have been able to secure a first-team place, it's obvious the Brazil under-21 international has his work cut out.

His task will become even more daunting if Arsenal act on their reported interest in El Shaarawy. John Cross of the Mirror suggests the Gunners may be in for the currently injured forward who has lost momentum at the San Siro.

El Shaarawy invited interest from the north London club, but he remains focused on returning to action with Milan, per Cross: "I am gratified by Arsenal's interest, certainly, but my objective is to come back for Milan and do well at Milan."

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The 22-year-old has netted just once this season, per WhoScored. He broke his metatarsal in January and, having spent much of the 2013 campaign out injured, has watched on as Milan continue to struggle. Currently placed 11th in Serie A, shrewd buyers may be looking to lure El Shaarawy away while the Rossoneri have little to offer him on the pitch.

He racked up an impressive 16 strikes in 2012-13 and could fulfill a number of roles for Wenger. The spiky-haired forward is capable of providing incisive quality from the left flank, or he could even play off a more physical presence like Olivier Giroud down the middle.

Wenger has many similar stars in his current squad, though, as shown by B/R UK's Sam Tighe during his recent look at Arsenal's current best lineup:

Although many supporters would likely be excited to see El Shaarawy at the Emirates through name alone, Wenger has greater priorities. He still needs a commanding defensive midfielder and would be wise to add further strength in depth to his defence.

While El Shaarawy has the quality to make an impression in England, Wellington still needs to highlight his credentials. Only then will Wenger consider bringing him back for a long-awaited stint in the Gunners' first team.