Moroccan international Hamza Mendyl confirmed that he held transfer talks with both Arsenal and Newcastle United but his international eligibility was a stumbling block for sealing a move to the Premier League.
The 20-year-old left back, who eventually made the move from French side Lille to Germany with Schalke this summer, was evidently in high demand, revealing that he had expected a move to England to come off but that work permit issues limited his options.
The 13-cap international told German publication Kicker: “True, I’ve been in talks with Arsenal FC and Newcastle United, but being a Moroccan citizen it’s not so easy to get a work permit there, I would have thought I’d play in England.
“I want to play in the Champions League, too I could not have believed that until recently.”
Opinion
Only time will tell whether Arsenal and Newcastle have missed out on a talented youngster in the shape of Mendyl but the fact he has 13 caps at the age of 20 shows he is highly rated by not only clubs but by his country as well. Newcastle could have really done with some extra cover at left back with just Paul Dummett as a natural senior option so it is clear to see why they were making a move for the young talent. As for Arsenal, they were hardly desperate for defensive cover but have a tendency for bringing in hot prospects and developing them in north London. Mendyl certainly fits the bill but again, it appears that the Gunners have missed an opportunity, albeit through the work permit issues that have arisen. Premier League sides are clearly looking further afield to try and get an edge over the opposition, but the rulings mean they are somewhat limited in getting the young stars of the future.