Arsenal, Spurs and Liverpool set to miss out on Dutch ace

Ibrahim Afellay (left) in action for Holland at Euro 2012. Photo: EMPICS Sport

Thursday, August 30, 2012
7:12 PM

Transfer news: Ibrahim Afellay looks set for a loan move to Germany

Barcelona winger Ibrahim Afellay is set to snub a move to the Premier League and join German side Schalke on loan.

The 26-year-old Dutchman had been linked with north London duo Arsenal and Spurs, as well as Liverpool, after he was made available for loan by Barcelona, who he joined from PSV in 2011.

But according to Schalke director of sport Horst Heldt, the Bundesliga side have beaten off competition for his signature.

“Negotiations to sign Afellay are at an advanced stage,” Heldt told the press on Thursday.

His countryman Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, who also plays at Schalke, welcomed him to the club on Twitter, saying: “I want to welcome Ibrahim Afellay at #S04.!! Tomorrow training at 16.00.. Don’t forget ;) wilkommen Ibrahim Afellay..!”