Arsenal have appointed ex-Atletico Madrid transfer guru Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.
The 53-year-old Italian emerged as Arsenal’s leading candidate to replace Edu, who Mail Sport revealed in November had left the Gunners to take on a multi-club role spearheaded by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Berta departed Atletico Madrid in January after 12 years in the Spanish capital and was credited with the signings of Rodri, Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak in bargain deals, as well as making substantial profits in selling players.
He is expected to attend the north London club’s game against Fulham on Tuesday as Berta begins his new role immediately.
‘I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,’ said Berta.
‘I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to re-establishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.
Arsenal have confirmed the appointment of Andrea Berta (left) as their new sporting director
Berta departed Atletico Madrid in January after a successful 12-year spell at the club
Edu resigned from his role to take up a role in the network headed by Evangelos Marinakis
‘The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team.’
Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke said: ‘Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.
‘Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.’
Arsenal also confirmed that Jason Ayto, who has filled the role on an interim basis since Edu’s departure, will work alongside Berta as his assistant
