Club owner says former Arsenal favourite is about to join much ‘bigger project’ – he’s wrong

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Whilst there’s a lot to be positive about at Arsenal right now, there is still one unsolved situation heading towards the January transfer window.

Since he left the club last month, Arsenal are yet to find a replacement for Edu Gaspar who resigned as sporting director.

Arsenal held Tomas Rosicky talks according to reports, and Real Sociedad’s current incumbent Roberto Olabe also seems to be in the mix.

Right now, Arsenal have delegated Edu’s responsibilities, explaining why they are still able to operate in January if they wish to dip their toes into the market.

In fact, Arsenal are interested in Rafael Leao ahead of next summer, and they’ve already begun making contact even without Edu around.

Nottingham Forest owner says Edu is making a step up from Arsenal

Of course, it seems as if Edu left Arsenal to join Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis in a role overseeing multiple a variety of his clubs.

And in a recent interview with Sky Sports, Marinakis seemed to aim a subtle dig at Arsenal when sharing his hope that a deal for Edu will soon be completed. 

READ MORE: Kai Havertz thinks £30m Arsenal star is becoming seriously influential behind the scenes

The Greek businessman suggested that overseeing Forest and his other clubs was a ‘bigger’ deal than his challenge at Arsenal, a statement many would disagree with.

Marinakis said: “Edu was a very good player and also a very good sporting and technical director. I have a lot of respect for him.

“The results we saw over the years at Arsenal were very good and he has done an excellent job at Arsenal.

“What I can say is that I would like to cooperate with him on a much bigger project, a global project. I’m optimistic that in case all this goes ahead, it will be another successful venture for both of us.

“I’m very optimistic about it, but we need to see how this will be developed and will be finalised, if and when time allows.”

Who will replace Edu at Arsenal?

Given the devolution of Edu’s powers mentioned, Arsenal may not actually appoint a direct replacement after all.

Arsenal changed their mind on one candidate last month given his lack of experience working in English football.

Otherwise, Rosicky and Olabe both still seem to be credible candidates.

Edu left Arsenal a transfer shortlist, one that his replacement may begin work on immediately ahead of next summer.

But either way, fans will trust that the club are in good hands, especially with Mikel Arteta’s influence and guidance as head coach.