A late push for Sokratis to Roma

Update: As of right now, a deal has been struck between Roma and Manchester United for Chris Smalling. Paperwork needs to be completed, but likely rules a Sokratis deal out.

It hasn’t gone unnoticed that Roma have been in the hunt of Man United’s Chris Smalling to bolster their backline. But as deadline day is here, and traction on that begins to fade, suggestions emerge that Arsenal are offering Sokratis up as an alternative.

Sokratis came to Arsenal, did a job, but as Arteta has shown and said time and time again, he looks for his center backs to have the ability to defend and attack. To offer the long passing range from the back, and be capable of moving the ball quickly. No disrespect to Sokratis, but that’s hardly his greatest skill. And at 32, it became clear he was not a part of Arteta’s plans.

The difficulty has been finding a good location to offload him and his £90k wages. Not an easy task for someone that is his age. To Sokratis’ credit, and a statement of his professionalism, he reportedly has been incredible around the club despite the lack of selection. Continuing to work hard, set an example, and work with younger players. Certainly not the reaction every professional has in this situation.

Time is ticking in the window and the closer to the deadline it gets, the better for Arsenal. Roma have yet to hear confirmation from United, which opens the door for a real opportunity. No fee amount or details have been reported, to my knowledge.