Panathinaikos have turned their attention in the transfer market toward signing a left-back, according to journalist Giannis Seretis, who reported on protothema.gr's programme "The Football Show by Stoiximan."
Seretis said the club wants a player who is match ready, technically sound and capable of creating genuine competition for Giorgos Kyriakopoulos in that position.
Left-back the priority
The move could still come from the free agent market, since that route remains open for strengthening the position, Seretis said. Whoever the club signs at this stage of the window will need time to adapt and prepare, with the aim of being available once the Super League resumes after the September international break.
Kyriakopoulos, a Greece international, has been Panathinaikos' regular left-back and the club is looking to add depth and competition behind him rather than replace him outright.
The possibility of signing a left-footed centre-back also remains on the table, Seretis said, though he added that the chances of that deal happening are no longer as high as they were in previous days.
Ounahi eased in gradually
Seretis also addressed Jacob Neestrup's plans for Wednesday's rescheduled Super League match against Kifisia. He said he does not consider it likely that Azzedine Ounahi will be in the starting lineup for that game, nor for Sunday's match against Panaitolikos.
According to Seretis, the Danish head coach wants to bring the Moroccan midfielder into the team's plans gradually rather than rushing him straight into the starting XI, since the player needs time to reach his desired match fitness.
Panathinaikos are therefore working on two fronts at once, Seretis said, with the club's management reviewing the last available transfer opportunities while Neestrup manages the squad ahead of a demanding run of fixtures in Greece and Europe.
