Gunners boss Arsene Wenger revealed earlier this month that he was looking to send the Mexican out on loan - and the Baggies, Bolton 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". 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 games. 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 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. Di Matteo said: "I'd like to officially welcome Carlos, who is an exciting signing for this club. Carlos is a new attacking option for us who can play both centrally and in the wide areas. "He also has great technical ability and pace and we're hoping he can make a big impact during the remainder of the season. "There's no doubt that Carlos has the potential to become a great player and it will hopefully be a win-win situation, where we help him by giving him game time in the Premier League while he helps us achieve our goal. "Having said all that, we have to remember he is still a young boy learning his trade and we will be giving him all the support he needs during his time here." Vela will not be available to face his parent club when the two meet in the Premier League on March 19.
