PAOK accelerates pursuit of Rubén Sánchez after Konstantelias sale

Rubén Sánchez is edging closer to an Espanyol exit after PAOK Salónica stepped up their efforts to sign the Barcelona-born right-back, aged 25. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Greek club's negotiating position has been strengthened by the sale of Giannis Konstantelias to Borussia Dortmund for €26 million, their record transfer.

Espanyol opened the sale file for Rubén two weeks ago, declaring him available during their pre-season tour of England. His situation worsened after he failed to feature in warm-up matches and was left out of the squad for their league opener against Levante, despite retaining the number 2 shirt in the official roster.

Initial offer falls short

PAOK tabled their first bid of €400,000 just days ago, which Espanyol firmly rejected, demanding around €1 million for their academy product. The gap was significant, but the €26 million windfall from Konstantelias' transfer puts the Greeks in a position to move closer to Espanyol's asking price.

Alessio Lisci, PAOK's manager, is pushing hard to complete Rubén's arrival, and the player himself is tempted by the prospect of playing European football. The Greek side face upcoming Conference League qualifying ties after being knocked out of the Europa League third qualifying round by Belgian side Anderlecht.

The Barcelona native had a contract with Espanyol until June 2027 and played a key role down the stretch last season, starting in four of the final five matches, including the crucial 2-0 win at Athletic Club that ended a 18-game winless run.