A busy day… Rick van Drongelen joins Panathinaikos! The Dutch center back has been in Athens since Saturday evening (July 18) to finalize the formalities of his transfer from Samsunspor.

The tall center back had long been Panathinaikos’s top target for the heart of the defense, but the deal went through quite a few twists and turns, as the actions of the Turkish club’s president led the Greek club to “put on hold” any negotiations for a short time.

Nevertheless, the fact that Trabzonspor’s interest was merely theoretical, as well as Ingi Ingason’s serious injury, expedited the process. Of course, the intervention of the “green” club’s power broker, Yiannis Alafouzos, also played a decisive role, as he gave the green light to finalize the deal.

Thus, Van Drongelen will undergo medical exams today (July 19), followed by fitness tests, sign a contract, and be officially announced for the next four years, becoming Panathinaikos’ seventh signing this summer.

We remind you that the 27-year-old defender has been training normally with Samsunspor and, as an “active” player, he will also be included on the European roster for the matches against Paksi.

*photo source: AP