Vela joins West Brom on loan

West Bromwich Albion have signed Arsenal forward Carlos Vela on loan for the rest of the season.

Gunners manager Arsene Wenger revealed earlier this month that he was looking to send the Mexican out on loan - and the Baggies, Bolton Wanderers and Spanish outfit Valencia all expressed a firm interest in the 21-year-old's services.

Trotters chief Owen Coyle was hopeful of pipping his rivals to the post over Vela, having taken Jack Wilshere on loan from the Londoners last season.
And he said earlier this week: "If we get the green light then we will look to act upon it, if not, there we go."
The player himself had stated his preference was a move to Spain - but Wenger has pulled rank to keep him in England so it's "easier for me to follow his progress".

Have Impressed

Wenger has plumped for Albion as he feels Vela will play more regular football under Roberto Di Matteo, whose troops have impressed on their return to the top tier but struggled for goals - scoring 29 in 23 matches.
The Mexican media revealed on Friday that Vela's agent Eduardo Hernandez had confirmed his client would move to Albion for the rest of the season.
The youngster has only made four substitute appearances in the Barclays Premier League this season, although he has played in the Carling Cup, FA Cup and Champions League.
The Baggies have preferred a 4-2-3-1 formation this season, so Vela - who can play as a central striker or winger - is likely to start in the attacking midfield trio which supports leading scorer Peter Odemwingie.