Arsenal transfers: Ahmed Fathi to have trial ahead of possible move

Egypt star Ahmed Fathi will have a one-week trial with Arsenal ahead of a potential transfer to the Premier League, Al Ahly have confirmed.

The 29-year-old defensive midfielder, who can also be deployed at full-back, is out of contract at Al Ahly and could leave the Egyptian club on a free transfer ahead of the new season.

Al Ahly football chief Alaa Abdel-Sadeq told Al-Ahram: “Fathi will go for trial with Arsenal for one week in a step to join the Premier League side if he passes medical and technical tests there.

“He has promised the Ahly management that he will return to the team if he fails to reach an agreement with Arsenal.”

Fathi has won over 100 caps for Eygpt and Arsene Wenger is understood to be a long-term admirer of the player, having first tried to sign him nine years ago.

Fathi spent spent six months on loan to Hull City in the Championship two seasons ago.