In a recent interview with the New York Times, Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela expressed his desire to play on loan with Lionel Messi at Barcelona when he said, “Who could say no to playing with Messi for four months and then coming back to LA?” he said.
“Enjoy, learn and then come back home.”
Vela’s Incredible Form In Major League Soccer
The Mexican striker has lit the Major League Soccer on fire after he put in numerous match-winning displays for the Los Angeles outfit throughout this calendar year. The ex-Arsenal frontman has scored 36 goals and grabbed 11 assists in 34 appearances for Bob Bradley’s team this term across all competitions.
The 30-year-old is currently playing at his prime, but with all due respect to the MLS, the fact remains that he is playing in a far inferior league when compared to the La Liga. So there is no guarantee that Vela will be able to bring his prolific goal-scoring form to Spain. However, he can still boast a decent scoring record if he decided to move to Barca as he has a wealth of experience of playing in the Spanish top-flight. Vela knows what it takes to regularly find the back of the net in the La Liga from his time with Real Sociedad.
The Cancun-born attacker is also vastly experienced at the international level, having represented Mexico in 72 international matches while netting 19 goals for his nation thus far.
What Will The Mexican Talent Bring To Catalonia?
Vela is still very quick for a player of his age and can complete some dangerous dribbles in the final third. He has gradually transformed himself into a clinical finisher in front of the opposition goal. The Mexican speedster loves to cut in on his stronger left foot and create some decent openings for his teammates in the offensive end of the field.
Should Barcelona Arrange A Loan Deal For Vela In January?
Ernesto Valverde could choose to take a gamble on Vela as he will only arrive on a short-term loan deal. Even if things don’t work out, Barca won’t have to pay a hefty price financially which bodes well for the club’s management.
Therefore, the Spanish champions should undeniably arrange a loan transfer for Vela when the transfer window reopens in January. The former Premier League prospect will be a fantastic short-term back-up for Luis Suarez at the Nou Camp. Moreover, Valverde would need a deep squad if he wants his team to win for the UEFA Champions League this season. Therefore, signing Vela will add some much-needed depth to the Barca squad which will come in handy when the first-team players get tired towards the latter stages of this campaign.
