Arsenal have confirmed that centre-back Shkodran Mustafi has left the club for Schalke.
The Bundesliga side were linked with a move for the German defender as a replacement of Ozan Kabak, who has departed Schalke for Premier League powerhouse Liverpool.
"Shkodran Mustafi has joined Bundesliga side Schalke in a permanent transfer," a statement read on Arsenal's official website.
"The 28-year-old World Cup winner joined us from Valencia in August 2016 and has since been a prominent part of our backline, making 151 appearances during his time at the club."
On Mustafi's exit, Gunners boss 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."
Thank you and good luck, @MustafiOfficial 👊
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) February 1, 2021
Mustafi failed to start a Premier League match this season, with Arteta having preferred to use the defender in cup competitions.
