Arsenal could be without prospective signing Mohamed Elneny for 12 months, with the Egyptian international yet to complete his national service.

The Gunners are close to finalising a £5million deal for FC Basel midfielder, with the Daily Mirror reporting Elneny has already passed a medical and obtained a work permit.

However, the 23-year-old is required to complete one year of national service with the Egyptian military before he turns 30.

The Gunners are hopeful Elneny will be able to obtain an exemption from national service similar to the one granted to former Chelsea winger Mohamed Salah who is now with AS Roma.