CONFIRMED – Arsenal OPEN Talks For Striker Transfer

Arsenal striker Joel Campbell is reported to be closing in on a move to Spain with Real Sociedad.

Reports have emanated from various sources that the club president Jokin Aperribay has confirmed the move, saying they are in talks with Arsenal over the striker.

Campbell spent the second half of last season on loan at Villareal, and boss Arsene Wenger does not see the 22-year old as part of his plans next season. The decision to let him move out on loan again has now been taken, and it looks as though Real Sociedad will be his next club.

Although the move is reported to have stalled, Real Sociedad coached by former Manchester United manager, David Moyes, still retain the hope of landing Campbell.

Confirming their interest in the Costa Rican, Apperibay said: “We are interested and there were talks with Arsenal, but right now there are none.”

Campbell is also thought to not want to stay at Arsenal next season, and has declared he wants to join the Spanish club.  Benfica have also shown an interest in the left-footed attacker.

Turkish club, Besiktas were also interested in the forward, though their offer of £5 million has been topped by Real Sociedad, Squawka understands.

Since joining Arsenal in 2011, Campbell has only spent six months in London, as he requires work permit and as a result, he has to be farmed out on loan on three occasions to different clubs.

He made a return to his parent club early last season and made only four substitute appearances in the Premier League despite his successful 2014 FIFA World Cup campaign. Wenger, however had other plans, and he decided to send him out on loan again to Villareal for the second part of the season.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are looking to sign Edin Dzeko from Man City, with Julian Draxler also linked to the Emirates stadium.