Veteran Arsenal centre-back Sol Campbell has revealed that he is in talks with Celtic over a move north of the border.
Campbell has reportedly been offered a twelve-month extension to his current deal at the Emirates but the former England international has admitted that he has been flattered by the interest shown in him by the Scottish club and, after holding initial negotiations with Celtic’s interim boss Neil Lennon, the 35-year-old is now considering his options.
Speaking to the Scottish Sun, Campbell said;
“I’ve spoken with Neil [Lennon] about moving to Celtic. And I’ve been impressed with what he had to say. We’re talking, although we haven’t yet discussed figures. Nothing is set in stone.
I know Celtic are a massive club. I have to consider them. You can’t ignore it when such a fantastic club makes their interest known.”
Campbell also went on to admit that he would need assurances over Neil Lennon’s long-term future (Lennon is currently in a ‘caretaker’ position at Celtic) at Parkhead before he made any decisions;
“Neil impresses me. He’s come into the job late in the season and that’s never easy. But he’s done fantastically well.
Neil told me he’s looking for me to be a figurehead in the team. He’s made it clear he’s looking for more leaders all over the team.
I know he’s not yet been confirmed as manager, although there is an expectation he will be. Who knows what will happen? But, yes, it’s important for me to know who the manager will be.
Neil clearly understands what’s needed at Celtic and I appreciate his interest. But we’ve still got to properly negotiate and the figures might not stack up.
Celtic is a serious possibility, but I am also talking to a few other clubs. I’m also giving Arsenal the respect they deserve. If the situation at Arsenal doesn’t resolve itself I know how interested Celtic are. And, yes, I’m seriously considering it.”
Although tempted by a move to Celtic, Campbell also stated that his preference is to remain at Arsenal next season and is prepared to wait his turn to discuss a new contract – as the club are currently focused on keeping Barcelona at bay in their pursuit of Gunner’s skipper Cesc Fabregas;
“A one-year contract has been offered, these things take some time to thrash out – and I imagine Arsene Wenger has quite a lot to deal with at the moment, particularly with Fabregas.’
I am in no rush, I would like to stay with Arsenal if I could. However, Celtic are a massive club, a great club, with massive support.”
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