Palermo chief frustrated by attempts to land Arsenal forward Joel Campbell

It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will be prepared to allow Campbell to head out on yet another loan spell, but the Costa Rica worldwide looks unlikely to play on a regular basis at the Emirates Stadium this term.

Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini claims Arsenal are stalling talks over Joel Campbell’s future.

Speaking at his press conference this morning, Arsene Wenger said his desire was to keep Campbell at the club for the upcoming campaign.

Also, La Liga outfit Villarreal were keen on brining him back to Spain, but it is Palermo who are presently leading the race to acquire the striker’s services.

Palermo reportedly failed to meet the Gunners’ £7.1m asking price last month with an initial bid, but now reports suggest the Italian side are ready to match the Premier League club’s valuation and bring the 23-year-old to the Stadio Renzo Barbera.

It’s clear his best position is at centre-forward but with little chance of overtaking Olivier Giroud, Theo Walcott or Danny Welbeck in the pecking order, his best option is to seek a permanent move elsewhere. Despite barely playing for them, Arsenal have valued Campbell highly.