Schalke beat Arsenal to the signing of Lille fullback Hamza Mendyl, it has been revealed.

The Morocco international would today be an Arsenal player if not for UK work permit problems.

Schalke chief Christian Heidel confirmed: "I think he would have gone to Arsenal."

Mendyl was also interesting Newcastle United, but despite his 13 caps with Morocco, he was blocked from moving to the UK by FA and government authorities.

The defender joined Schalke last week in a deal worth €7m.