Sokratis Papastathopoulos headlines our rumour mill as Man United lead race to sign Borussia Dortmund defender

David Cooper - Writer 13:34 10/03/2018
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  • The January transfer window may be shut but there’s still plenty of news from the rumour mill with several moves being put off until the summer.

    Here, we round-up the transfer tales that have got everyone talking on Saturday.

    SOKRATIS

    Manchester United are considering a summer swoop for the highly-rated Borussia Dortmund defender, according to the Mirror.

    The Red Devils need a new centre-back and have watched the 29-year-old in action over the past few months.

    Although they are interested in signing Tottenham ace Toby Alderweireld, who is out of contract at the end of this season, Sokratis is also on their radar – and at £25 million (Dh 127m) – should be an easier target to bring to Old Trafford.

    Chelsea are believed to be keen on signing the Greek international, but United are understood to be front-runners to secure his signature.

    SLAVISA JOKANOVIC

    The Fulham boss has been linked with the Chelsea manager’s job should Antonio Conte depart this summer, the Daily Mail says.

    Jokanovic, who appeared 39 times for the Stamford Bridge club between 2000 and 2002, has revived the Whites’ fortunes at Craven Cottage as they continue their push for Premier League promotion.

    Fulham have been on a winning streak since December and that has only served to increase speculation that the 49-year-old Serb could make the short trip across the English capital to the King’s Road side.

    The Serbian is said to be ahead of former Barcelona boss Luis Enrique in the running for the position.

    HECTOR BELLERIN

    The Arsenal right-back is reportedly trying to secure a move back to Barcelona this summer, Mundo Deportivo reports.

    The La Masia graduate had been linked with a return to Camp Nou last term, but the Gunners refused to sell the elusive 22-year-old.

    However, the £50million-rated (Dh250m) Spanish international still has his sights set on a return to Blaugrana following a difficult season at the Emirates.

    While Sergi Roberto’s new contract extension and the form of Nelson Semedo give Barca two options in the position, Bellerin is still highly thought of by the Catalan giants and that won’t put the La Liga club off pursuing his services.

    Bellerin is just one of several Arsenal stars considering their future in north London.

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