Arsenal’s Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny is reportedly set to depart the Emirates to join Turkish giants Besiktas on a loan deal.
As the European transfer window draws to a close, there are some imminent departures expected from the Premier League. Arsenal, in particular, are thought to be looking for prospective clubs who might want to take some of their unwanted stars. Now according to French Journalist Manu Lonjon, Mohamed Elneny could be on the verge of joining Besiktas in a loan deal.
It certainly would be good news for Unai Emery and his plans to trim down his rather large squad. Elneny, along with Shkodran Mustafi, has been widely tipped to leave Arsenal before the European deadline. Emery had made it abundantly clear they do not feature in his plans. While the German is no closer to making a move, Elneny could be on the verge of leaving Arsenal after all.
Besiktas have reached an agreement with Arsenal over the transfer of Elneny, as per Manu Lonjon. The Turkish giants are reportedly only taking the Egyptian on a loan deal, although the intricate details of the move are still unknown. It certainly would represent good business for the Turkish side, as Elneny surely has plenty to offer.
Earlier in the week, it was being reported that French side Bordeaux were closing in on Elneny, although it is Besiktas who seem to have stolen a march over the Ligue 1 side. Arsenal, earlier in the summer, were looking at a fee of around £10 million for Elneny. West Ham United were reportedly keen to take the midfielder and seemingly ready to pay the requested price.
However, with the English deadline passing a long time ago, the best bet for Elneny was to join a club outside England before their transfer deadline. Overall the interest was scarce, and it has taken the tail end of the window for a few teams to come and join the hunt for the midfielder. For Elneny, it would be a good move considering how far in the pecking order he has fallen at Arsenal.
It is not to say Elneny has been underwhelming during his time at the Emirates. The growing competition and a change of manager have prompted the club to rethink their stance on the midfielder. Additionally, the signing of Dani Ceballos, as well as the emergence of Joe Willock and Matteo Guendouzi, has rendered Elneny surplus to Emery’s plans.
On the other hand, Arsenal have an upgrade in Lucas Torreira when it comes to the holding midfield slot, a position that Elneny was primarily bought for. Turkey would be a good option, as playing for Besiktas would help Elneny to resurrect a somewhat faltering career, which has slightly stalled since the start of last season.
If the deal is to go through, it would be good business for both teams. Further details like if Besiktas have an option to sign him permanently or the loan fee they are paying are all under wraps for now. However, this information could come forth when the deal is done and dusted.
