Arsenal are continuing their hunt for a new Sporting Director and hope to have an appointment in place by the end of March.
Andrea Berta is ‘very close’ to being appointed having turned down AC Milan in order to pursue talks at the Emirates Stadium.
Berta has signed players such as Antoine Griezmann in the past at his previous club Atletico Madrid and would bring a wealth of experience in the transfer market to the Gunners.
Tomas Rosicky is also in the sporting director frame but it is thought that the Czech’s lack of experience may be his downfall in pursuit of the role. Another former Arsenal midfielder who played with Rosicky has also been talking about a potential return to the club.
Yossi Benayoun open to a return to Arsenal in the future
As per Footy Insider, Yossi Benayoun, who spent a season on loan at the Gunners in the 2011-12 campaign, has been speaking about his future in the game.
When asked about a potential return to Arsenal, Benayoun admitted he was open to the idea but has never taken up the role of a sporting director in England before.
Benayoun stated: “Of course I would be interested in a sporting director role in England, but I am also a pro licensed coach, Let’s see what comes up.”
The former Israel international has some experience in the role having been appointed sporting director of Beitar Jerusalem in 2019 after announcing his retirement from the game.
Benayoun’s Arsenal career
Benayoun joined Arsenal on loan from Chelsea in the summer of 2011 as part of a frantic final few days in the transfer window by Arsene Wenger.
Benayoun joined the club at the same time as Per Mertesacker and went on to make some vital contributions during the season that saw Arsenal qualify for the Champions League yet again under Wenger.
The midfielder made 25 appearances in all competitions that season, scoring six times and contributing three assists.
Perhaps his most important goal was a late winner at Villa Park as Arsenal won the game 2-1 to secure a vital three points for their top four finish.
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