As reported by Bild, Bayern Munich could target former Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos.
With injuries having plagued Thomas Tuchel’s backline in recent weeks, Die Rekordmeister are on the hunt to add reinforcement as they look to fight on three fronts this season. While a move for Jérôme Boateng fell through due to fan criticism, another centre-back option has been identified by Bayern.
Sokratis has been a free agent since departing Olympiacos in the Summer and recently turned down a move to Real Betis. Despite negotiations being considerably advanced with the Spanish side, the Greek defender was believed to not have been convinced by the club.
Therefore, Bayern are free to make a move for the 35-year-old, who has a positive relationship with Tuchel stretching back to their time at the Westfalenstadion. However, no approach has yet been made by Die Rekordmeister.
Nevertheless, Sokratis offers the experience and leadership that Bayern are searching for to offer rotation to a fragile defensive unit. Nonetheless, Bayern will hold off from making any approach for a centre-back until Dayot Upamecano and Matthijs de Ligt have been fully assessed to determine whether they can wait until the January transfer window opens.
GGFN | Will Shopland
