Arsenal are considering a move to re-sign former player Dinos Mavropanos, who was sold by Mikel Arteta for just £5m in 2023. The Greece international, now 28, is expected to leave West Ham after the club's relegation to the Championship on the final day of the season. According to Sky Sports, Arsenal are among several clubs monitoring his availability.
Mavropanos' Journey Since Leaving Arsenal
Mavropanos originally joined Arsenal from Greek club PAS Giannina for £1.8m in January 2018, becoming one of Arsene Wenger's final signings. He made only seven first-team appearances in two seasons before loan spells at Nurnberg and Stuttgart. Stuttgart signed him permanently in 2023 for up to £5m, but a year later West Ham paid £21m to bring him back to the Premier League.
Despite West Ham's relegation, Mavropanos had an impressive individual campaign, winning the club's Player of the Year award. He scored three goals in the run-in, including one against Manchester City that boosted Arsenal's title chances before they secured the Premier League trophy in May.
Arsenal's Defensive Options
Arsenal currently have an abundance of right-footed centre-backs, including William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera, and Ben White. However, White has been tipped to leave this summer after falling down the pecking order. Mavropanos would provide additional depth and competition.
Speaking about Mavropanos after his goal against Manchester City, Arteta described him as a 'very, very good character'. He added: "A player that was signed just before I arrived as well, and he had a long-term injury as well, and he didn't get that many minutes. But it's good to see him doing really well."
Transfer Competition and Price
Arsenal would need to fend off interest from other European clubs to bring Mavropanos back. With West Ham relegated, they may be forced into a fire sale, potentially making the defender available at a reduced price. Mavropanos' experience in both the Premier League and Bundesliga makes him an attractive option for several teams.
