Joel Campbell signs new Arsenal contract before joining Villarreal on loan

Arsenal have confirmed forward Joel Campbell has signed a contract extension prior to the Costa Rica international moving to Villarreal until the end of the season.

The 22-year-old has not made a single start in the Premier League for the Gunners this season and will join the La Liga club for the remainder of the campaign as part of the deal that saw Gabriel Paulista move in the other direction on a permanent basis.

Campbell, who enjoyed an impressive World Cup as his country reached the last 16 phase, had just 18 months to run on his current deal at Arsenal but the club have tied the youngster down to fresh terms in north London.

"Thanks to the whole family of Arsenal for their messages," he said upon the deal being confirmed earlier in the week. "I hope to make them proud."

Though Arsenal have not confirmed the length of the contract, the move sees Campbell's role as the future of the club's attack cemented despite him being sent on a fourth loan spell in as many seasons.

After joining from Saprissa in the summer of 2011, Campbell went on loan to FC Lorient and Real Betis before being granted a work permit, which was followed by a spell with Olympiakos.

His form, particularly in the Champions League where he scored against Manchester United, saw Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger retain him going into the new season but his appearances have been restricted to the club's domestic cup fixtures and cameo showings in the Premier League.

Unlike many other younger players, Wenger appears keen on promoting Campbell into the first team and said earlier this season. "Yes, of course [Campbell is in my long-term plans]."

"But I cannot guarantee the happiness of every player. I try to make everybody happy.

"I personally love Joel Campbell and have a big respect for him and I wish every day that he is happy from morning till evening. We have all got to deal with our problems."