English Premier League giants Arsenal are on the verge of completing the signing of Egyptian midfielder Mohamed Elneny from Swiss club Basel.

According to Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger, the Gunners are looking to overcome work permit issues in order to confirm the capture of the Pharaohs player.

The North Londoners are top of the Premier League at the moment on 42 points, but they are struggling in terms of available players within the squad, with a number of first team footballers on the injured list. For this reason, Wenger is hoping to have Elneny within his ranks as soon as possible.

“I expect movement and we are positive that this week it can happen.” Wenger admitted.

“The situation can be sorted out. There are work permit problems and special paperwork, a visa, we hope we can finalise it this week. As long as it’s not definitely signed you have to be cautious but I’m optimistic,” Wenger said to the media at a press conference, according to DailyMail.

Arsenal face a difficult task on Wednesday in EPL action, with Juergen Klopp’s Liverpool taking on the Gunners, and the issues involving his visa and work permit will ensure that he will not be able to debut against The Reds in mid-week.

Instead, Wenger will be looking to have him ready for upcoming games in the Premier League and FA Cup, as soon as the permit and visa problems are sorted out.

The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has represented the Egyptian national team on 39 occasions, scoring three goals.