‘Arsenal aren’t moving from their initial positions’

Arsenal are playing hardball over the future of Joel Campbell, according to Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini.

The 23-year-old forward is being targeted by Palermo, and Zamparini has flown to London to make the move happen.

However, the Italian club’s president is now accusing Arsenal of refusing to negotiate and the deal is on the verge of collapsing.

Quoted in the Daily Mirror, Zamparini said:

‘I’m here in London to try a final drive for the player, but Arsenal aren’t moving from their initial positions.

‘Campbell is unattainable as of now. If some margins open up for a negotiation then all for the better, otherwise we can’t do anything.’

Palermo were initially keen on signing Campbell on a season-long loan earlier in the month but have since decided to attempt to acquire him on a permanent basis, tabling an opening £3.5 million offer. This bid, however, was turned down by the Arsenal, with the Gunners reportedly wanting at least double the amount for the player.

Palermo are now believed ready to match Arsenal’s asking price but Arsene Wenger and co. look to have changed their stance on the matter, to the annoyance of Zamparini.

It will be interesting to see how this develops from now until the end of the transfer window.