Arsenal take players on trial from various clubs around the world at frequent intervals, but rarely has there been such interest in a player hoping to impress as there has been with midfielder Sebastian Perez.

The Colombian U20 international, who represented his country at the recent World Cup for that age group, arrived in London on Saturday to commence a short trial period during which he will train with the first-team squad in the hope of earning a permanent move to the club.

The 20 year old, who lists illustrious names such as Xavi, Xabi Alonso and Andrea Pirlo as his inspirations, is adept both going forward and defensively, but has usually operated in a deep-lying midfield role for his club Atletico Nacional, for whom he made his senior debut in 2011.

He has already won several trophies with Atletico Nacional in the ensuing period and is widely regarded as one of Colombia’s brightest young talents. Should he impress sufficiently to earn a transfer to Arsenal, it is likely that the youngster would go straight into the first-team squad as cover for the likes of Mikel Arteta and Aaron Ramsey.

According to reports in France, Perez will be joined at London Colney for the next two days of training by 26 year old Moroccan midfielder Alharbi El Jadeyaoui, who plays for French second division side Angers.

Meanwhile, another trialist, centre-back Ramy Bensabiani, is likely to be given an extended chance to prove his worth despite his abysmal showing during the U21s’ 7-0 friendly defeat to Luton Town on Saturday. The Algerian defender was a guest of the club for the Emirates Cup the following day and could have his trial period extended by a further week.