
Panathinaikos to sell star for £10.5m ahead of Rangers clash
Portuguese outlet A Bola is reporting a deal has been struck between the two clubs for Vagiannidis to move in a €12 million (£10.5m) deal. Add-ons of up to €2m could come into play.
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He will sign a five-year contract after Sporting opted for him following their desire for a new right-back this summer.
The Greece international will reportedly arrive in Lisbon on Thursday to finalise his move. That will mean he has served his suspension in the second leg against Rangers on Wednesday and would then be free to play in the Champions League for his new club.

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5 minutes ago
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Metro
35 minutes ago
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