Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is unsure if Mohamed Elneny can handle the Premier League.

But Wenger is hoping he will turn out to be the next Jean Tigana, the France star who defied his small stature to be an outstanding midfielder.

The Gunners boss said: “It is a big step from him, to come out from Switzerland to go to the Premier League but I think it is the right age for him.

“But let's judge first how well he adapts, how well he does to see if it is a cheap price.

“We were the only club interested. He was not basically too much on the radar, not too many people spoke of him. I think we were right - now he has to show that.

“He's not a monster. Usually Middle East people have big stamina and are agile but lack a bit power sometimes so he is not a powerhouse.

“He's more a mobility player. That is why I think he can suit our game.

“And winning the ball is not only down to power, it is to switch on at the right moment - it's a technique.

“You have players who are muscular who lose fights against small players who are very slim because small players switch it on at the right moment.

“When do you switch your muscle on, when the guy is in a weak position, it is a real technique.

“I remember Tigana was 63kgs, a defensive midfielder and he was unbelievable defensively. He had that technique."