Arsenal ahead of Liverpool in race for the transfer of FC Schalke 04 and Greece star.
Arsenal lead the chase to sign FC Schalke 04 star Kyriakos Papadopoulos, according to the Sun, with the player formerly linked with Liverpool.
The Greece international centre back has demonstrated tremendous form since moving to the Gelsenkirchen side in 2010 at a mere 18 years of age, helping Schalke shine in both UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League, as well as impressive finishes in the Bundesliga.
Prior to that he was the youngest ever player to take part in the Greek Super League, making his Olympiacos debut at just 15.
Having suffered a terrible knee injury in November 2012, Papadopoulos has not played since, and that will be a concern to both Arsene Wenger and Brendan Rodgers as they deliberate over transfer bids.
Liverpool require centre back reinforcements this summer, as Jamie Carragher has retired, and Rodgers doesn’t appear to trust either Sebastian Coates or Martin Skrtel.
He has brought in Kolo Toure to help Daniel Agger out at the back, but the Ivorian is unlikely to be anything more than an emergency backup, and additional cover will be required.
Arsenal meanwhile have Laurent Koscielny, Per Mertesacker and Thomas Vermaelen as options at centre back, with Ignasi Miquel in reserve.
Papadoupolos’ signing would push the three senior men hard for a first team place – as long as he can stay fit of course.
The Sun also report that the Gunners have decided against moving for Swansea star Ashley Williams after deeming the Welshman overpriced.
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