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Fenerbahce have made an ‘important move’ for Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos, who is being urged by Mesut Ozil to join him in Turkey.

The Greek defender is free to leave Arsenal this month, having been left out of their team since the beginning of the season.

His contract expires in the summer, and the Gunners are happy to let him leave on a free transfer in the winter window to get his wages off of their books.

The centre back has subsequently been linked with clubs around Europe and Fenerbahce are the latest to throw their hat into the ring.

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Takvim report that the club have made an ‘important move’ for the defender and even called on Ozil to convince his teammate to join him.

According to their report, the German midfielder held a meeting with Sorkratis and urged him to join him in moving to Turkey.

That meeting was ‘very productive’ and the Greek player, who is already close to Fener chief Emre Belözoğlu, will deliver a ‘definitive answer’ in a few days time.

Arsenal are not asking for a transfer fee for Sokratis, but Napoli, Genoa and Real Betis are all keen on his signature as well, meaning the Super Lig side have some convincing to do if they are to win the race.