Arsenal are finally closing in on agreeing a deal with Andrea Berta to become the next sporting director for the club, following a long process.
The Gunners have been looking for a new director since November, with Edu Gaspar resigning from his post to take up new opportunities.
Jason Ayto has been interim sporting director since the Brazilian’s departure, taking charge of a frustrating January transfer window for the club – with the side missing out on a new striker.
Plenty of names have been linked with Arsenal to take over, however, Andrea Berta has been the favourite to become the sporting director.
Arsenal agree deal for Andrea Berta as next sporting director
While Arsenal have been linked with Andrea Berta, there were some final details standing between him and the job.
However, according to David Ornstein, writing for The Athletic, a full agreement has been reached between Arsenal and Berta.
The Italian director left Atletico Madrid in January after a 12-year stay at the club, where he made quite the impression.
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Arsenal Insider understands that Berta turned down the chance to speak to AC Milan, prioritising Arsenal as his ideal option.
The director will now be tasked with a huge summer of transfers for the Gunners, which is set to see them move into the market.
A centre-forward is high on the priority list, alongside a central midfielder and a winger to improve the squad and get a silverware push over the line.
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Josh Kroenke role in Arsenal’s sporting director hunt
With Arsenal pushing hard on the pitch to win some silverware, the moves behind the scenes have continued to attempt to strengthen the side.
The possible addition of Berta could bring some extra experience, having previously made some impressive signings for Atletico Madrid.
According to the Athletic’s report, the move for the director was driven by Richard Garlick and Tim Lewis, while one part of the Arsenal ownership was present with Josh Kroenke involved throughout.
Mikel Arteta is claimed to have his input too, which keeps everyone on the same page when it comes to such a big change.
That, in itself, could help keep the harmony from a shift that may see the side go on another path moving forward.
It remains to be seen which players Berta could sign, but it’s an exciting new time for fans to get excited about this summer.
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