AN OVERVIEW OF ARSENAL’S IMMINENT RECRUIT, SOKRATIS PAPASTHATHOPOLOUS. by Ashutosh
Just as we confirmed the signing of veteran defender Stephan Lichtsteiner on a free transfer, another addition to our defense was made public by the player’s father on Greek Radio Radio 24/7. On the 5th of June 2018, Sokratis’ father revealed news on his son’s transfer to Arsenal saying: “There was interest from United but he had to wait until July for them,”
“United have a very good relationship with Dortmund, the teams talked but Sokratis chose to go to Arsenal.
“Arsenal had talked two years ago but I don’t know why he didn’t sign.
“He is going to a higher level, the world’s most competitive league and I believe he will do very well.
“Sokratis is in his last year at Dortmund. This was a major reason [for completing the move].
“He is happy, he is in England at the moment, and tomorrow [Tuesday] he will be doing what he has to do, the typical things, everything will go well, he is happy, he is changing.”
Although no official confirmation has been received, we can be optimistic (if not enthusiastic) about his arrival. The fact that he rejected Manchester United for makes me like him already.
Although he may not be a 90m signing but what you can undoubtedly get from this guy is absolute and consistent commitment. Kind of what we were lacking, maybe?
At 30 years of age, this guy comes with experience and a proven ability at top level. Robust in challenges, doesn’t get toppled over easily, has the pace to get past players as well and chips in with goals every season. He will not eat up a huge part of our wage/transfer bill and also provide reinforcement to our rearguard.
Here is a short clip highlighting his performances during his time at Dortmund.
Official confirmation is expected within the next 24 hours. It seems like its going to be a busy transfer window for us.
Will his transfer raise competition for CB places and bring experience to our defense? Or will he be just another Mustafi?