by Lewis Ambrose

12 months ago the stock of Joel Campbell had risen considerably after a string of impressive World Cup displays for Costa Rica.

The forward had been sent on a number of loan spells but arrived back at Arsenal with the opportunity to fight for his place. That didn’t go well, with Campbell looking out of his depth in each of his 10 appearances under Arsène Wenger.

His reputation may have dwindled but his World Cup performances still carry enough weight to attract interest from some clubs in Europe.

Palermo are reportedly interested in the player and a deal was said to be close. Campbell is apparently happy to join the Serie A club but, while a loan deal was originally rumoured to be close, it is being said that the Italian side are not willing to pay what Arsenal want for his services.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport Palermo tabled an offer of just £3.5M for Campbell, which has been knocked back without hesitation. They say that Arsenal want double for the player, and have told Palermo that an offer of £7M would make him their player.

There is reportedly interest from Real Sociedad, Besiktas and Benfica among other clubs so Arsenal are unlikely to panic and sell Campbell to the first bidder.