Exciting forward Wellington Silva signed for Arsenal in December 2009 following a protracted transfer saga. The Gunners paid Fluminense around £3.4 million for 65% ownership, with the other 35% due to be signed over once Wellington turns 18 and is eligible to move to North London in January 2011.

Rio de Janeiro born Wellington escaped poverty and life in the dangerous favela’s to join Fluminense aged eight, where he quickly rose through the ranks as a promising right winger. Often scoring double figures in youth games, in his teenage years Silva was moved down the middle into a striker role where his searing pace and composed finishing were put to good use.

In 2007 a promising Fluminense side took part in the Manchester United Premier Cup. Under 15 sides from all over the world came together for the prestigious tournament which saw Wellington smash the goals to send his team into the final against a much fancied Atlas outfit. A goal and assist from the prospect sealed the cup win at Old Trafford with Silva winning both the ‘Player of the Tournament’ and ‘Most Valuable Player’ awards.

Arsenal were soon alerted to his services and invited him to trial over Christmas in 2008. He trained well and came on to play the final 45 minutes for Steve Gatting’s Under 16′s at Norwich City. The Brazilian smashed four goals in an incredible second period as the Gunners ran out 7-1 winners. A mass scramble for his services ensued among Europe’s giants.

Flu resisted pressure to sell and promoted Wellington to the first-team despite his tender age. Although he didn’t feature, for the Under 16′s he continued his sincilating form – scoring 51 goals in 19 games – including one in the league final. Following his participation in the Under 17 World Cup for Brazil, Arsenal opened negotiations and took advantage of financial problems with the Serie ‘A’ side to agree a deal.

Due to FIFA rules, Brazilian players are forbidden from leaving their country for Europe until they turn 18. The Gunners instead agreed to buy 65% of his rights, meaning they have ownership of the player, with the other 35% to be paid for once Wellington turns 18 and can complete his move to North London.

Silva is a small yet agile forward with awesome technical skills and blistering pace. His versatility and flamboyant attacking style will no doubt be a big hit with Arsenal fans, but they’ll have to be patient to watch the exciting South American youngster in action.

Name: Wellington Silva
Nickname: ‘Ciel’
Age: 16
Nationality: Brazilian
International: Brazil Under 17
Position: Striker/Winger
Height: 170cm
Previous Clubs: Fluminense
Contract: Schoolboy