Arsenal centre-back Mustafi joins Schalke - German replaces Liverpool signing Kabak

Liverpool, Arsenal and Schalke have announced the completion of two deals: Gunners defender Shkodran Mustafi joins the Bundesliga side on a free transfer and signs a contract until the end of the season – in return, Ozan Kabak leaves Germany and joins the Reds.

Premier League titleholders Liverpool have acquired their desired reinforcement following their injury problems in the centre of defence, while Schalke have found a replacement for Kabak. Mustafi had prematurely terminated his contract, which would have expired in the summer, with Arsenal before signing for the Royal Blues.

Head coach Mikel Arteta said: “Musti has been a key player for us for a long period of time. He played a very important part in my first season as manager and I’d like to thank him for his professionalism and for always being ready when called upon. Everybody at Arsenal wishes Musti well at Schalke.”

Arsenal’s most expensive defender leaves - Mustafi joins Schalke

Mustafi, who joined Arsenal for €41 million from Valencia in 2016, made 151 appearances for the Gunners across all competitions after becoming the most expensive defender club history. After leaving the youth academy of Hamburger SV for a move to Everton in 2009, Schalke are the former Germay international’s first club in the Bundesliga.

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