By AFP

BERLIN: German magazine Der Spiegel reported Monday that preparations were underway for embattled Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to possibly visit Germany for an “extended medical check-up.”

Rumors that Mubarak may arrive in Germany for a medical sojourn are “much more concrete than was believed until now,” the magazine wrote in its online edition.

“Preliminary talks with appropriate hospitals are ongoing, particularly with the Max-Grundig clinic in Buhl in the Bade-Wurtemberg” region, the report said, citing sources close to the clinic.

AFP was unable to confirm the report.

When asked about a possible visit by Mubarak, German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said: “There has been no official nor unofficial request concerning such a stay.”

Mubarak, who on Monday was facing continued protests calling for his resignation, has previously received medical treatment in Germany at least twice.