FORMER Arsenal star Sokratis Papastathopoulos could be handed a career lifeline by Real Betis.
The Greek defender, 35, is without a club after leaving Olympiacos over the summer.
But Sokratis is now being lined up for a free transfer to Spain.
Fabrizio Romano claims Betis are considering a move after ex-Barcelona star Marc Barta was ruled out for several months with an Achilles injury.
Sokratis, who ironically played next to Bartra for two years at Borussia Dortmund, is immediately available as cover.
Betis have enjoyed a decent start to the new season, winning three and drawing four of their opening nine matches.
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And Sokratis could be in line to feature against Getafe after the international break.
Romano said: “Real Betis will decide in the next 24h about Sokratis Papastathopoulos as new centre back on free agent deal.
“Discussions taking place, up to the club as today could be already right time for internal decision.
“Sokratis would replace Bartra following his injury.”
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Sokratis is best remembered by English fans for a two-and-a-half year spell at Arsenal.
He joined the Gunners from Dortmund for £17million in 2018 and went on to score six goals in 69 matches.
Sokratis even won the FA Cup during his brief time in north London.
He was offloaded to Olympiacos in January 2021 and went on to win two Greek titles before his release in July.
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