ROMA are considering a move for Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos, according to reports.
Italian media have named the Greek defender as a possible alternative to Chris Smalling, who remains the Serie A side’s primary target this summer.
Sokratis Papastathopoulos has been stuck on the Arsenal bench under Mikel ArtetaCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Chris Smalling is wanted for a permanent stay in the Italian capitalCredit: Getty Images – Getty
Stumping up the £20million fee for Manchester United loanee Smalling is proving tough for Roma, requiring them to look elsewhere.
And the Giallorossi are drawn to Sokratis, according to Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness.
Mikel Arteta has dropped the Greek centre-back down his pecking order since arriving in North London.
Sokratis has been afforded just one Premier League start under the coach, as a makeshift right-back in the March victory over West Ham.
And, at 32 with just a year left on his contract, a sale may be tempting for Arsenal.
Recently purchased by American billionaire Daniel Friedkin, Roma are still thought to be pushing for United man Smalling.
The 30-year-old starred in a loan spell at the Stadio Olimpico this season and reportedly wants to remain in Italy.
Inter Milan and Newcastle are also understood to be monitoring his situation.
But, a surprise reprieve at Old Trafford is not off the table with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer talking up the Englishman’s “value” to United earlier in the summer.
The manager stated: “I think Chris has shown over his Manchester United career how valuable he is at Manchester United.
“This season was about him being a regular and going to Roma and showing how good a centre-back he is, I wanted to give Harry [Maguire], Victor [Lindelof] and maybe Axel [Tuanzebe] a chance.
“It was best for him to go and play for a year in Roma and he has shown he will be valuable, I’ve been speaking to Chris throughout. I’ve been delighted with his season.”
Chris Smalling says he has no regrets about joining Roma
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
