Arsenal Transfer News: Joel Campbell Set for Spain Adventure

Jul 03, 2012 02:14 AM EDT

Arsenal youngster Joel Campbell will move to Real Betis on loan for next season, according to the 20-year old.

Campbell said he was excited about the move and was looking forward to playing in one of the best leagues in the world. While Arsenal haven't confirmed the loan, Campbell told Fox TV: "It's a great opportunity for me to grow.

"I am going to the world's best league, and I want to play."

The Costa Rican forward signed for Arsenal from Deportivo Saprissa last year and went out in loan to French club Lorient, after the Gunners failed to receive a work permit.

Campbell, who can play on the wings or in the middle, is seen by Arsene Wenger as one for the future and has already made 14 appearances for his country, making quite an impression with an eye-catching goal against Spain last year.

He made 25 appearances for Lorient last season, netting three times.

Meanwhile, another Arsenal forward Carlos Vela is working hard to thrash out a move to Real Sociedad, where he spent the entire last season on loan.

The Mexican international, who has never quite been able to establish himself in the Arsenal first-team, impressed during his spell with Sociedad scoring 12 goals in 35 appearances and has said he wants to make his move to Sociedad permanent.

However, Arsenal are holding out for £6 million ($9.5 million), with Sociedad willing to pay only half that amount.

Betis, Osasuna and Atletico Madrid have also shown an interest in keeping Vela in the Spanish league.

Arsenal might be forced to sell for less, with Wenger desperate to reduce the wage bill as he looks to strengthen for next season by bringing in more signings. That will only be possible if Arsenal are able to let go of some of their unwanted players.

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