Joel Campbell signed for Arsenal three years ago this summer but has yet to make an appearance for the club, instead spending a hat-trick of consecutive seasons away from north London on various loan spells.

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World Cup star

Now with a work permit enabling him to play for Arsenal, Campbell could make his long-awaited return this year after his most recent loan spell in Greece, although his future would appear far from clear cut at present.

The 22-year-old performed to distinction on the global stage with Costa Rica at the World Cup, with these displays suggesting Campbell may have a place at Arsenal when the new season begins.

However, the acquisition of Alexis Sanchez and sustained pursuit of a more natural centre-forward could suggest otherwise, and Campbell has been linked with various other clubs, while his representatives have valued the forward at £16 million.

What about the future?

But have Arsenal provided an indication of where Campbell’s future lies? With his Olympiacos contract now expired, Campbell is listed on the official Arsenal website as a member of Arsene Wenger’s first-team squad.

Perhaps this suggests Campbell is indeed part of Wenger’s plans for the upcoming campaign, and will complete alongside the likes of Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud for a regular place in the Arsenal set-up.

A shame to lose him

It would certainly be something of a shame if Campbell was not at least afforded the opportunity to prove himself in the Premier League, with his displays in Brazil providing much encouragement for Arsenal fans.

In a Costa Rica side that performed wonderfully on their way to the semi-final, Campbell was the key goalscoring threat and drove his team forward with real purpose and danger when the ball was in his possession.

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Better options?

He had offered glimpses of this potential during the time spent with Olympiacos, as shown with a fine goal against Manchester United in the Champions League, but will it be enough to earn a shot at Arsenal?

Wenger already has numerous other players at his disposal who offer something similar to Campbell and can contribute more effectively, and further recruits will only serve to increase the difficulty of what is already quite a challenge for the player.