Edu comments on Sokratis after Arsenal release confirmed

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Arsenal have confirmed on their official website that the club have come to a mutual agreement with defender Sokratis to terminate his contract with immediate affect – as the Greek defender edges closer to a return to Italy.

Sokratis, 32, joined Arsenal in the summer of 2018 for a fee of £17.7million (Guardian) and he has since played 69 times in all competitions. However, he was left out of the 25-man league squad this season.

The former Borussia Dortmund star has only played once in the Carabao Cup and previous side Genoa are being strongly linked. Now, the centre-back could join Genoa or any other interested side for nothing.

That is because his £92,000-a-week (Spotrac) contract has been ripped up. Sporting director Edu has commented on his exit, thanking the versatile defender for his efforts in an Arsenal shirt – labelling him a “model professional”.

“On behalf of Mikel, our coaches, players and everyone at the club, I would like to thank Papa for his contribution to the club,” Edu told the club’s website.

“He has been an important part of our group and has been a model professional throughout. The negotiations to end his contract have been collaborative and we wish Papa and his family well for the future.”

TBR’s view – Another loss, along with Ozil departure

Mesut Ozil is also set to see his Arsenal contract terminated in order to allow him to move to Fener. The £350,000-a-week deal was due to expire in the summer like Sokratis’ was – meaning Arsenal have made a loss on both.

What it does mean, though, is that Arsenal are wiping off the best part of half a million pounds off their wage bill. Could it be that they are maneuvering some space for a new signing? Time will tell.