PAOK is in advanced talks with French right back William Mikelbrensi, who left Hamburg SV as a free agent and is currently the club's leading candidate to strengthen the right side of its defense, according to Gazzetta.gr.
The club's attention is largely on the return leg against Dynamo Kyiv, but squad planning is continuing, with priority now on signing another right back to play alongside Jonjoe Kenny.
Mikelbrensi is 22 and a product of the Metz academy before moving to Hamburg SV in the summer of 2022. He stayed with the German club for four seasons, establishing himself as a regular and developing his game significantly.
Last season he played a full campaign in the Bundesliga, making 26 appearances. His contract then expired and he became a free agent, now looking for his next move.
PAOK moved quickly on the player, viewing him as a prospect with speed and experience in a demanding league, qualities that match the profile sporting director Alessio Lisi is seeking for the position.
Negotiations are ongoing and, barring a reversal, Mikelbrensi currently appears to be the club's choice for the right side of defense, where he would pair with Jonjoe Kenny.
A second attempt
Mikelbrensi is not a new name for PAOK. He was already on the club's transfer list back in January, when PAOK seriously considered signing him before instead acquiring Jorge Sanchez.
Six months later, with Mikelbrensi now a free agent after leaving Hamburg, the two sides are back in advanced talks aiming to complete a deal.
PAOK believes the move can be finalized soon, giving Alessio Lisi another option as the club continues its European campaign and heads into the start of the new league season.
