According to German outlet RevierSport, the centre-back is holding off on a new deal as Dortmund push for Champions League qualification. If they fail to achieve it, it’s implied he’ll look to move elsewhere.

The report suggests Dortmund would want around €20m (£17.5m) for the 29-year-old. Sokratis’ contract lasts until 2019, so this is realistically their last change to cash in before he could leave on a free transfer.

It wouldn’t be easy for Arsenal to fight off competition from Manchester United and Juventus, two massive European clubs. However, if the team can win the Europa League and qualify for the Champions League, they have a chance.

After all, Sokratis will know that with the strength (or lack thereof) of Arsenal’s current defence, he’d slot straight into the starting eleven. He might not get that same opportunity at the other clubs. At 29 years old he won’t want to mess around sitting on the bench.

It’s hard to know whether Arsenal are really interested, considering Arsene Wenger’s imminent departure. We’ll have to wait and see what happens next.

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