Andrea Berta has emerged as a candidate to become Arsenal‘s next sporting director, sources have told ESPN.
The Gunners have been conducting a series of interviews since the transfer window closed with several names under consideration including former Manchester United recruitment chief Dan Ashworth and Roberto Olabe, who will leave Real Sociedad at the end of the season.
Berta, 53, was in talks to join AC Milan after leaving Atlético Madrid in December, those discussions have broken down with the 53-year-old, who is subject to interest from Arsenal as they seek to replace Edu.
The Gunners announced in November that Edu had resigned from his role at the club, with sources telling ESPN that the Brazilian had been approached by Nottingham Forest and Olympiacos owner Evangelos Marinakis to lead their multi-club group with an offer that would include a considerably increased salary.
Edu is currently serving a six-month period of gardening leave while managing director Richard Garlick leads the search for his replacement.
Sources added that no agreement has been finalised, but Arsenal are hoping to conclude the process this month so the new appointment can start work ahead of the summer transfer window.
Andrea Berta’s Impressive Legacy at Atlético Madrid
Andrea Berta’s tenure at Atlético Madrid spanned over a decade, during which he helped shape one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. Joining Atlético in 2013, Berta’s impact was immediately noticeable. Under his stewardship, the club secured numerous domestic and international titles, including La Liga titles in 2014 and 2021, and the UEFA Europa League in 2018. His skill in identifying talent on the market proved invaluable to Atlético’s competitive edge.
Berta was behind some of Atlético’s most crucial signings, such as João Félix from Benfica, Kieran Trippier from Tottenham Hotspur, and the acquisition of Luis Suárez from Barcelona—a move that would eventually propel Atlético to another La Liga title. Notably, Berta was also responsible for facilitating the sale of players like Rodri, who was purchased for just £16.5 million and later sold to Manchester City for a substantial £58 million. These kinds of shrewd deals have earned Berta a reputation as one of the top sporting directors in European football.
Arsenal’s Search for a Sporting Director
Arsenal has been looking for a new sporting director ever since Edu Gaspar’s departure in November 2024. The Gunners have been keen to find someone capable of enhancing their transfer policy and improving the overall sporting direction of the club. The club has been linked to several potential candidates for the role, but Berta now seems to be the most likely appointment.
In the wake of Edu’s exit, interim sporting director Jason Ayto, former Manchester United recruitment chief Dan Ashworth, and Roberto Olabe of Real Sociedad were all considered viable options. However, Berta’s track record of successful signings, coupled with his in-depth knowledge of European football, has made him the frontrunner in the race to take over at Arsenal.
What Berta Could Bring to Arsenal
Andrea Berta’s experience and success at Atlético Madrid would undoubtedly benefit Arsenal, who are currently in a transitional period under manager Mikel Arteta. Arsenal’s primary focus will be strengthening their squad, especially in key areas such as defense and midfield. Berta’s ability to spot potential talent at all levels of European football could be key in ensuring Arsenal make the right acquisitions to propel the team back into the upper echelons of English and European football.
Berta is known for his meticulous approach to scouting and recruitment. His involvement in Atlético’s strategic acquisitions of under-the-radar talents, combined with his understanding of the financial intricacies of major transfers, aligns perfectly with Arsenal’s desire to maintain a strong, yet financially sustainable, squad. Additionally, his connections across Europe’s top leagues could open up new opportunities for Arsenal to sign emerging stars.
Recent Developments and the Importance of Josh Kroenke’s Visit
The momentum around Berta’s potential appointment has picked up significantly in recent weeks. Arsenal co-owner Josh Kroenke, who has been heavily involved in the club’s decision-making, recently visited London to meet with Mikel Arteta and discuss the club’s long-term plans. It is believed that Kroenke is keen to finalize the appointment of Berta soon, underlining the importance of securing a sporting director who can work in tandem with Arteta to drive Arsenal forward.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Arsenal
If Andrea Berta is appointed as Arsenal’s new sporting director, it would represent a significant step forward for the club as it aims to challenge for both domestic and European honors. His expertise in player recruitment and squad management could be exactly what Arsenal need to move to the next level. With Berta potentially at the helm, Arsenal could well be on the path to restoring their place as one of the Premier League’s most powerful clubs.
As the talks continue, all eyes will be on the outcome of this exciting development. Berta’s proven success at Atlético Madrid could be the game-changer Arsenal need to reach new heights and ultimately return to the top of European football.
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