Arsenal Advance in Pursuit of Andrea Berta as Sporting Director
Arsenal appear to have gained momentum in their search for a new sporting director, as they eye Andrea Berta to fill the role left vacant by Edu. Reports suggest Berta has halted discussions with AC Milan for a similar position, informing the Serie A club that he has an offer from the Gunners.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared on X (formerly Twitter): “Understand Andrea Berta is now the top candidate to become new Arsenal director in order to replace Edu. Discussions already took place, Berta left Atlético after building the team with key signings in recent years. Talks at an advanced stage, not done/sealed yet.”
Adding to the story, FootballTransfers reporter Duncan Castles revealed: “Understand that Andrea Berta has ended talks over AC Milan’s sporting director role, telling the Serie A club he has an offer from Arsenal. Berta left Atletico Madrid by mutual consent in January after 11 years in La Liga. Has been improving his English in London with a view to taking a Premier League job.”
During his tenure at Atletico Madrid, Berta played a pivotal role in the club’s success, helping secure two La Liga titles, a Europa League trophy, and a UEFA Super Cup. Arsenal are reportedly aiming to finalize their decision by March, with the new appointee expected to take charge in time for the summer transfer window.
Arteta’s Role in the Hiring Process
When questioned about his involvement in the selection of Edu’s replacement, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta emphasized that the decision ultimately lies with the club. He stated: “The decision will be done relatively quickly, whether it’s Jason [Ayto] or somebody else, I don’t know, but I think that decision will be done quite early. We have the sporting director, which is Jason. He’s been given full responsibility from day one since Edu’s departure, and we fully support him. What the club wants to do after that is not on me. It’s a club decision to appoint the person they believe is the best, and I will be in full support of that.”
As Arsenal continue their search for a new sporting director, all eyes remain on Andrea Berta and whether his move to North London will materialize in the coming months.
(Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)
