Costa Rican forward Joel Campbell is unlikely to be at Arsenal when the transfer window ends.

That much seems obvious, despite Arsène Wenger’s claim on Friday that he is happy for the forward to remain at the club. The comment from the Arsenal manager seemed to diplomatic at best, as Arsenal are thought to be in negotiations with Palermo.

The Italian side have backed away from a deal after failing to reach the asking price set by the Gunners, but another Serie A side could now be interested. Lazio are light on strikers, currently relying on Miroslav Klose to lead the line in the absence of Filip Djordjevic, and can’t be relied on for two games a week at the age of 37.

Klose lined up in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Bayer Leverkusen, which Lazio won 1-0, but has picked up a knock ahead of the return game in Germany.

Campbell would provide Lazio with a good option, adding pace and versatility as he is able to play on either wing. Gazette say that, if the Italian side should make the Champions League group stage, they will have the spare money to launch a bid to tempt Arsenal into a sale, though they would be more interested in a loan initially.

That wouldn’t be too much of an issue for the Gunners, as Campbell signed a new deal last January to make sure he doesn’t lose his value.