Arsenal Emerge Favorites To Sign La Liga Star

Celta Vigo striker Nolito could be plying his trade in the English Premier League as early as January after eight scouts – yes, you heard it, EIGHT – were present to watch the Spaniard in action, as reported by the Daily Star.

Nolito has courted interests from several European sides with a number of impressive show-offs for the La Liga side this season.

Barcelona, one of Nolito’s old employers, have been linked with the Spain international striker, but a host of Premier League giants are also keen to lure the striker to the English top flight, as per the report.

It is claimed Arsenal are leading the chase for Nolito, 29, the Star cite El Periodico Mediterraneo’s claims that reigning Premier League champions Chelsea and fellow London club Tottenham sent scouts to monitor the Spanish forward last weekend.

The report says Aston Villa, Southampton, Stoke City, West Bromwich Albion and Premier League newcomers Bournemouth also sent representatives to Celta Vigo’s game against Villareal, with Eduardo Berizzo’s side running out 2-1 winners over the Yellow Submarines.

Nolito was signed by Barcelona in 2008 but failed to clinch a first team place at the Nou Camp and, that prompted his move to Benfica in 2011 where he won a place in the first team.

However, he was shipped back to Spain for a loan spell at Granada, before then signing for Celta Vigo in 2013.

Nolito, 29, has six La Liga goals to his name this term and his current side sit second on the log – level on 28 points with third-placed Barcelona.