West Bromwich Albion boss Pepe Mel has confirmed his interest in signing Arsenal winger Joel Campbell during the summer transfer window.
Campbell, 21, played under Mel at Real Betis in 2012/13 and the latter has hinted he could make a summer move for the Costa Rica international, assuming he is still in charge of the Baggies.
The 21-year-old ace, who officially joined Arsenal in August 2011, was finally able to secure a work permit in England last summer but was deemed surplus to requirements by Arsene Wenger and subsequently loaned to Greek giants Olympiacos F.C.
Campbell has been a revelation for the Greek champions this season, tallying eight goals — including an absolute screamer against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 — in 32 league appearances under up-and-coming manager Míchel.
The highly-rated Costa Rican has steadily improved over the past three seasons, in which be has played for three different clubs — Lorient, Real Betis and Olympiacos — in three different countries — France, Spain and Greece.
Mel would like nothing more than to bring the £7 million-rated winger to the West Midlands, as he confirmed ahead of the Baggies’ trip to the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
However, he faces stiff competition from Olympiacos, who have already opened talks with Arsenal regarding a permanent transfer, and a host of Premier League clubs.
“Joel Campbell was a player with me at Betis, a very good player and it is possible for the future at West Brom ,” said Mel.
“He would be a good player for West Brom.
“He could play for Albion if I stay here.”
Campbell is priced at 2500/1 to win the 2014 World Cup with Costa Rica.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen bids farewell to boyhood club
A teary-eyed Marc-Ander ter Stegen — believed to be on his way to FC Barcelona — said goodbye to the Borussia Monchengladbach on Saturday.
Ter Stegen, who has been at Monchengladbach since he was four years old, cried before, during and after the his final home match — a 3-1 win over Mainz — at Borussia-Park on Saturday.
“I’m going to miss the stadium, the fans, the club, many people who are in the club, and of course my friends,” Ter Stegen said.
“It was a very emotional game for me and I was delighted with the fans’ support.”
Despite confirming his exit from the Monchengladbach-based club, Ter Stegen did not reveal his summer destination, with many pundits extremely confident he is on his way to Catalunya to replace Victor Valdes.
Where will Ter Stegen play his football next term?
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