Over in Germany, one of Arsené Wenger’s final signings for Arsenal is enjoying himself away from the Emirates Stadium.
What’s the story?
Well, back in June, Edu sanctioned the departure of Konstantinos Mavropanos to VfB Stuttgart on a season-long loan.
However, the 23-year-old may not be returning to Arsenal.
For some reason, Edu negotiated a clause which means VfB Stuttgart are obligated to buy the centre-back for £3m if they avoid relegation (The Athletic).
Considering Wenger paid £1.8m to sign Mavropanos, we’re not quite sure why Edu values the promising defender at such a low fee.
Interestingly, German media outlet Heidenheimer Zeitung are equally as baffled.
After Mavropanos scored his fourth goal of the season, they asked ‘how’ VfB Stuttgart were able to secure a deal like this, at the expense of Arsenal.
VfB Stuttgart are currently 12th in the Bundesliga and looking likely to avoid relegation, so we may never see the Greek defender play for Arsenal again.
Konstantinos Mavropanos situation another sign of Arsenal failings
This has happened before, and Arsenal have been made to regret it.
The Gunners allowed Serge Gnabry to slip through their fingers and join Werder Bremen, where he then moved to Bayern Munich.
Now, after netting 53 goals in 138 games for the German giants, Gnabry has made Arsenal’s decision look a bit foolish.
On current evidence, there is no reason why Mavropanos won’t also join Bayern Munich one day, and make Arsenal look similarly embarrassed.
There is a real lack of foresight about Arsenal’s dealings – at the very least, a buyback clause could’ve been negotiated.
Only time will tell if Mavropanos truly does become Gnabry 2.0.
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