Report: Mo Elneny set to return to Arsenal, despite permanent Besiktas clause

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Turkish outlet Fanatik have claimed that midfielder Mo Elneny is likely to return to Arsenal this summer instead of completing a permanent move to Besiktas – despite impressing for the Turkish side.

Elneny, 27, joined Besiktas last summer on a loan-to-buy deal until the end of the campaign. Since then, he has become a regular in the Besiktas side – clocking up 26 appearances in all competitions.

Besiktas remain in the hunt for European football but it seems their title challenge has hit the skids somewhat. They are now eight points behind leaders Istanbul Basaksehir, and that has seen Besiktas start planning ahead of next season.

Those plans do not include Elneny, as per the report, as Besiktas are unwilling to pay the £15.7million fee required to sign Elneny permanently. It means the player is due to return in the summer, though another exit is likely.

TBR’s view – Should Elneny be given a chance at Arsenal?

Arsenal do need a central midfielder, especially with Dani Ceballos expected to return to Real Madrid following his loan. Matteo Guendouzi has struggled this season, while doubts remain over the futures of Granit Xhaka and Lucas Torreira.

However, Elneny is far below the standard of the aforementioned quartet and if Arsenal get a reasonable offer for the ex-Basel’s star’s services – then he needs to be sold.