Joel Campbell 'very excited' about Villarreal loan move after struggling to make an impact at Arsenal
- Joel Campbell has claimed his loan to Villarreal 'means a lot' to him
- The Costa Rican hasn't been able to nail down a first team place at Arsenal
- Villarreal have agreed 'in principle' for Gabriel Paulista to move to the Emirates in player plus cash deal
Joel Campbell has revealed that he's looking forward to a 'new opportunity' after agreeing to join Villarreal on loan from Arsenal until the end of the season.
Despite being called back to the Arsenal squad after an impressive 2014 World Cup campaign with Costa Rica, Campbell has struggled to find a regular spot in Arsene Wenger's first team and has been used in the Frenchman's deal to bring Gabriel Paulista to the Emirates.
Speaking via his personal video blog, Campbell said: 'This means a lot to me, I am very excited with this new opportunity and I hope to sign the contract tomorrow [Sunday].
Joel Campbell has revealed he's 'very excited' to be joining Villarreal on loan for the rest of the season
Campbell, seen here scoring during pre-season, will sign his Villarreal loan contract on Sunday
Campbell has struggled to make an impact at Arsenal despite an impressive World Cup with Costa Rica
'It is a great team and hope to take advantage of this opportunity and do my best. [It] is a huge step.
'The Spanish league is a top one and Villarreal have a great game style and I hope to have the opportunity to demonstrate what I know.
'[It] is a pleasure to play with them.'
On Saturday, Villarreal announced they had reached an agreement in principle with Arsenal for the sale of centre-back Paulista, with Gunners forward Campbell heading to the Spanish club.
Villarreal also confirmed they have agreed a deal in principle with Arsenal for defender Gabriel Paulista
The Yellow Submarine confirmed on Twitter that a deal had been agreed on Saturday evening, shortly before their Primera Division match against Levante kicked off at El Madrigal.
'Transfer agreed in principle with Arsenal for Gabriel, who will bid farewell before the game. Much luck!" the club posted.
'Welcome @ joel-campbell12! Agreement reached with Arsenal until the end of the season.'
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