Mikel Arteta has already hinted why Arsenal want to sign Konstantinos Mavropanos from West Ham

Arsenal's interest in West Ham United star Konstantinos Mavropanos should not come as a surprise.

The 28-year-old had a stellar season but could not prevent the Hammers from dropping down to the Championship.

His Premier League campaign and Nuno Espirito Santo's need to sell players has led to a lot of speculation around his future.

German clubs have already entered the race for Mavropanos' signature but the Gunners are now understood to have made their interest clear.

The Hammers star has already had a stint at the Emirates Stadium, between 2018 and 2022.

Mikel Arteta's previous comments on the Greek international have already hinted at why he wants to bring him back.

What is the latest on Arsenal and Konstantinos Mavropanos?

The Premier League champions admire the London Stadium defender.

Sky Sports' Chris Reidy reported on Friday that Arteta's side are interested in their former enforcer at the back.

It's said that the Gunners already have plenty of options at right centre-back including William Saliba, Cristhian Mosquera and Ben White.

That could put a switch in doubt, but the latter could move on, leaving a space for the Hammers man.

However, Arteta has already made it clear what the Irons ace would bring to his team.

What has Mikel Arteta said about West Ham star?

Arteta worked with Mavropanos for a brief period before his exit from the North London side.

He did not play a single game under the Spaniard, as he was dealing with injuries when he took over.

Speaking after his goal against Manchester City for the Irons last season, which put the Islington-based outfit in pole position for the title, Arteta complimented the defender.

He said: “Yeah, very, very good character.

“A player that was signed just before I arrived as well, and he had a long-term injury as well, and he didn’t get that many minutes.

“But it’s good to see him doing really well and that’s it, and all the players that have been with us, wish them all the best.”

That makes it clear exactly why the former Everton and Rangers man would want to add the 42-cap international to his squad.

Given the plethora of options as his disposal, the E20 man would be far from the starting line-up, but the opportunity to play in the Champions League and compete for the biggest honours could be temping.

If the N7 side decide to formalise their interest in the coming weeks, it would be foolish for the veteran to not make the move.

Nuno's side could make some vital funds and he would get to play at the highest level once again.