With Western Sydney Wanderers right-back Josh Risdon already locked into a lucrative multi-year deal, along with Greek marquee Panagiotis Kone, the new entity are close to snaring the 22-year-old known simply as ‘Aspro’.

The stopper is off contract with the Mariners - whom he signed for in May whilst in the midst of recovering from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

He sustained the injury playing for former club Western Sydney in the National Youth League grand final a year ago, only returning to action in December.

Regarded as one of the A-League’s most promising stoppers, he’s racked up eight appearances for the A-League’s bottom club since his return from injury.

It’s understood the Mariners want to keep him and have flagged an offer.

However, amid ongoing uncertainty over how committed owner Mike Charlesworth may be to investing heavily in strengthening the squad, Aspropotamitis appears likely to head south to join the fledgling franchise.

He made his Wanderland breakthrough under Tony Popovic, ultimately making 53 appearances in all competitions for the Red and Black, prior to heading to Gosford.