Arsenal have officially confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta as the club’s new sporting director.
The Italian is renowned for his expertise in recruitment and squad building and will replace Edu, who resigned in November.
Berta arrives just in time to oversee a crucial summer transfer window, where Arsenal will be keen to revamp the squad ahead of another push for the Premier League title.
A striker is firmly at the top of Mikel Arteta’s priority list for the summer, but the Gunners will also look to add a left winger and a defensive midfielder.
Alexander Isak remains the club’s primary target, but Newcastle United’s £150 million demand could be a sticking point.
Arsenal have also been linked with the Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha, Napoli-owned Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, Sporting CP marksman Viktor Gyokeres, and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
Athletic Club’s Nico William’s is the club’s primary left-wing target, while Martin Zubimendi is seen as the ideal replacement for Jorginho and Thomas Partey, who are expected to leave the club in the summer.
Given the calibre of players on Arsenal’s wishlist, they could end up spending well over £200 million, which means they’ll need to cut some players loose to fund their summer splurge.
Berta has built a strong reputation as a renowned talent spotter during his 12-year stint at Atletico Madrid, helping the club to two La Liga titles, the Europa League and a Champions League final appearance.
His ability to identify and develop talent, as well as negotiate profitable deals, made him one of the most respected sporting directors in European football.
“I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years, and I have admired the hard work that has gone into re-establishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world,” said Berta (via Arsenal.com).
“The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.”
Berta could be in attendance when Arsenal resume their Premier League title challenge at home to Fulham on Tuesday.