‘Nem will be one of world’s best’

Rio de Janeiro: English club Arsenal’s target Wellington Nem is on his way to becoming one of the world’s best playmakers, according to Fluminense sporting director Marcelo Teixeira.

The 20-year-old has been in sparkling form for the Rio club, having formed a lethal midfield partnership with former Porto, Barcelona and Chelsea star Deco, reports Xinhua.

“I have no doubt that Wellington Nem will be one of the great stars of world football,” Teixeira told Radio Brasil on Saturday.

“He is a really dedicated kid, who loves playing for Fluminense and deserves all the credit that comes his way.”

Nem has been rewarded for his consistency by receiving a call-up by national coach Mano Menezes for Brazil’s recent friendlies against Denmark, Mexico and Argentina.

An Arsenal scout reportedly travelled to Rio in April to observe Nem during Fluminense’s Copa Libertadores group match against Argentine club Boca Juniors.

He has also been linked to Arsenal’s Premier League rivals Tottenham and Italian Serie A giants Juventus.