One of the most trusted sources for Arsenal transfer news, David Ornstein, has given fans of the North London club a huge update on the transfer of Sokratis.
The BBC journalist tweeted:
As per @JackPittBrooke Arsenal close to signing Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Dortmund. Latest acquisition led by Sven Mislintat, continues drive to rebuild defence/squad with experience/leadership. #AFC prioritising ready players & will integrate youth (eg Mavropanos) over time
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) May 28, 2018
A journalist best known for being one of the most reliable sources for early gossip for the Gunners, it is now believed that Arsenal will complete the transfer for Sokratis this week.
The Greek defender stands at 6’1 and has made 198 appearances for the German side, scoring 3 goals for the side. The 29-year-old center back has been with Borussia Dortmund since 2013 and has become a regular starter for the side. He made 198 appearances for the German side, scoring 3 goals.
Sokratis is currently the vice-captain of the German giants Borussia Dortmund, leading the team as captain on many occasions.
The Independent reports that Arsenal initially made a bid of around £13m but have recently upped their bid to match Dortmund’s asking price of £16m, leading to the advancing of talks between the player and the club.
With the potential signing of Stephan Lichtsteiner, it is overly clear that Emery and Mislintat are trying to bring experience and leadership to the Gooner’s defence.
The new head of recruitment, Sven Mislintat, is looking to completely rebuild the Arsenal defense, with Sokratis’ deal looking to be finalised soon and Turkish center back Caglar Soyuncu confirming talks are taking place.
With Laurent Koscielny being injured for a huge chunk of next season and Per Mertesacker retiring, it is clear that the Arsenal need not only some top-quality defenders but also leaders on and off the pitch.
Conceding a shocking 51 goals last season, the North London club will definitely need to bring in several world-class defenders to mount a real title challenge.
