Former Arsenal centre-back Sokratis Papasthatopoulos is set to join Real Betis as a free agent on a short-term contract until 2024. The Spanish side is currently without Marc Bartra, and have turned to the Greek veteran to solve their problems.

The medical tests are set to be carried out soon to confirm the move in the coming days. The defender has been without a club since the end of the 22/23 season, after leaving Olympiacos in his native country. Now, he is set for a reunion with former Arsenal teammate Hector Bellerin at Betis, once his arrival has been announced.

Sokratis Papasthatopoulos to join Real Betis until 2024

Sokratis played for Arsenal for three years, making 69 appearances before leaving in 2021. He was unable to nail down a regular starting spot following his move from Dortmund, being a rotational option during his time there.

Bayern Munich also considered going for the Grecian, with an injury crisis hitting their squad in midfield and central defence. But, they instead decided to wait and strengthen their line-up during the January transfer window instead of signing Sokratis on a short-term deal.

Betis are currently ninth in the table with 14 points to their name from ten games. In their Europa League group, they have won one game and lost one, and are level at three points with all other teams in their group.