Arsenal’s stance on Edu replacement amid Dan Ashworth interest after Man United exit

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Arsenal are on the prowl for a new sporting director following Edu Gaspar’s shock exit last month.

Mikel Arteta was surprised by Edu’s departure as the Brazilian announced he was to embark on the next stage of his career.

Before leaving, the former player conducted a five-man transfer shortlist for the Gunners, giving insight to his eventual successor into what Arsenal require.

As the January transfer window fast approaches, there’s still little clarity over who will replace Edu in the crucial role, with several candidates sounded out. 

Dan Ashworth a possible replacement for Edu

One figure identified was Monaco’s Thiago Scuro, but Arsenal made a U-turn on targeting the sporting director.

Then came the shock departure of Robert Olabe at Real Sociedad, making Olabe a possible candidate for the Arsenal job.

Former players have even been in conversation, as Arsenal reportedly held discussions with Tomas Rosicky but still, no successor has been identified.

A development in the Premier League might have captured the Gunners’ attention however, as it was announced that Dan Ashworth had left Manchester United.

Ashworth has caught Arsenal’s eye due to his working relationship with Richard Garlick, opening the door to the North Londoners possibly poaching the former United man. 

• READ MORE: Mikel Arteta has now hand-picked his ideal Edu replacement, it reveals one important change at Arsenal

Arsenal’s stance on hiring a new sporting director 

Speculation in the Premier League has moved from players transferring clubs, to sporting directors, but there’s no official update from Arsenal on their pursuit.

In a new report detailing the Gunners’ thoughts on Ashworth, ESPN shared how the club feel about hiring Edu’s successor. 

ESPN understand that Arsenal are not under ‘urgent pressure’ to replace the Brazilian despite the January transfer window fast approaching.

That being said, it’s believed that Ashworth’s availability could turn heads, with it reported that the former United sporting director is ‘of clear interest’ to Arsenal.

Ashworth has a history of working with Garlick, which could play into the hands of those at the Emirates, making for an interesting development behind the scenes.