Arsenal are set to begin talks with midfielder Mohamed Elneny as Mikel Arteta looks to quickly resolve the situation regarding the player's future. The 25-year-old's current deal at the Emirates is set to expire this summer, along with both Alexander Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah's respective contracts too.
Joining from Basel back in 2016, the Egypt international has featured a mere 14 times in all competitions so far this season, as Arteta's side chase down a vital top four finish, although Gunners' boss Mikel Arteta recently praised him after he impressed during their 4-2 win at Chelsea on April 20.
"I have always said that for me he’s one of the most important players in the squad," said Arteta. "For what he does when you give him the chance to play and for the things that he does when he doesn’t play. He’s a phenomenal person and a great footballer that sometimes doesn’t get the credit he deserves."
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With the door potentially wide open for a whole host of additions heading into the summer, the Gunners have been linked with strengthening in multiple different areas, none more so than in midfielder and in attack. Youri Tielemans has been a player of notable interest that has gathered traction over recent weeks, of course then putting Elneny's imminent future in more danger.
But according to the Athletic's David Ornstein, Arsenal are set to begin talks over a fresh deal that would extend his six-year stay at the club. Elneny has spent time away from the club in recent seasons, spending a campaign on loan with Turkish side Besiktas during the 19/20 campaign.
With Matteo Guendouzi - currently on loan at Marseille - also said to be part of Arteta's plan for next season, more squad depth will be required due to the sheer amount of extra fixtures the side will play now they have qualified for European competition next season.
With Thomas Partey and Elneny both departing for the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, rumours did surface regarding the possibility of a move within the January window. However, with Granit Xhaka's up-turn in form too and subsequent revival amongst the team's fanbase, the mood has lifted, with the side now potentially eyeing a third-place finish.
