Arsenal transfer latest: Joel Campbell 'requests' deadline day move to Benfica

Striker is reportedly unhappy with his lack of playing time

Joel Campbell could be on his way to Benfica (GETTY IMAGES)

Portuguese news outlet O Jogo have reported that Arsenal striker Joel Campbell is closing in on a permanent €10m (£8m) move to Benfica on deadline day.

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While selling a striker would be an odd move by Gunners' manager Arsene Wenger with it looking increasingly likely no new signings will be made today, O Jogo have reported that Campbell himself has requested the move away from the Emirates.

The 22-year-old Costa Rica returned to the Gunners this season after a successful campaign at Olympiakos last term, where he scored eight league goals. Campbell then went to World Cup in Brazil, scoring a fine goal against Uruguay in a 3-1 group stage win.

He has failed to break into the Arsenal team since, however, playing only 20 minutes in two brief substitute appearances.

Campbell signed for Arsenal back in 2011, but has been out on three season-long loan spells since after initially encountering work permit difficulties.

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Selling the player would see Wenger face more of the wrath form the Gunners fans with the club needing to add a striker to their ranks, not offload one. Olivier Giroud has been ruled out until early December at the earliest with a broken leg.

Wenger said yesterday that he intends to be "active" in the transfer market before tonight's 11pm deadline, but was earlier pictured on his way to Rome to referee a charity match.