Arsenal have locked up their first signing of the January transfer window with the acquisition of Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny, according to reports from the Independent.
Top officials from the club have flown out to Switzerland to meet with Elneny, where he has starred for perennial Swiss powerhouse, FC Basel. Elneny has already been cleared to make his move to Arsenal, but the proceedings have been held up over international work regulations.
At only 23-years-old, Elneny has already compiled the resume of a veteran. The young midfielder has played a pertinent role in controlling the pace for an FC Basel side that has won three straight Swiss Super League titles.
Last season Elnany was a mainstay in the center of the pitch for Basel, making 51 appearances in all competition. Along with his three league titles, Elneny has appeared in the Olympics for the Egyptian U-23 team, as well as garnering 39 caps for the Egyptian National team’s senior squad.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7OIZiku-ho
Wenger was quick to sign Elneny after making it clear that the Gunners needed support at the center-midfield position. Injuries to Tomas Rosicky, Francis Coquelin, and Jack Wilshire have left Arsene Wenger’s side depleted in the midfield, an area Arsenal will have to bolster if they hope to keep their place atop the Premier League table.
The signing of Mohamed Elneny from FC Basel will be a strong step in Arsene Wenger and the Gunners move to hold onto their first-place position in a close Premier League race.
