Arsenal transfer news: Shkodran Mustafi’s dad DENIES Ali Bulut is Valencia star’s agent following ‘deal almost done’ claims

ARSENAL’S move for Shkodran Mustafi has hit a snag – his agent might not actually be his agent.

That’s according to Mustafi’s father, who reportedly claims Ali Bulut does not represent the Valencia star.

Bulut has been widely reported as Mustafi’s representative, and claimed just yesterday that a deal to the Emirates was close.

He said: “It now just remains for the teams to come to an agreement over the fee.”

But Valencia-based newspaper Super Deporte claims Mustafi Snr. has called Los Ches chiefs to clarify that Bulut has no links with the German centre-back.

Valencia were apparently confused by Bulut’s comments on Thursday as they thought Mustafi’s business was handled by the player and his father.

And Super Deporte adds that in fact there is no deal for Mustafi to join Arsenal at all, contrary to reports.

It’s claimed Valencia have no intention of parting ways with the former Everton man, with Aymen Abdennour up for sale instead.

The apparent revelation will come as a hammer blow to Arsene Wenger, who is facing a defensive crisis ahead of the new Premier League season.

Per Mertesacker and Gabriel will definitely miss the weekend opener against Liverpool, with Laurent Koscielny also ruled out.

There is every chance Wenger will be forced to field Rob Holding and Calum Chambers at the back, a partnership Daniel Sturridge will surely be relishing to go up against.

And if a move for Mustafi can’t be completed before the transfer window shuts, Arsenal could instead turn to out-of-favour Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu.