Andrea Berta is set to join Arsenal as their new sporting director, replacing Edu, who resigned last November. After a thorough search, Berta has emerged as the standout candidate, with interim director Jason Ayto also considered for the role.
The 53-year-old Italian left Atlético Madrid in January after 12 years in charge of recruitment, where he helped shape one of Europe’s most competitive squads. Berta has agreed to join Arsenal, and once contracts are finalized, he is expected to start immediately, giving him time to plan for a pivotal summer transfer window.
Berta had been linked with Milan, but he has long been intrigued by a Premier League challenge. His experience in handling complex, high-stakes transfers makes him an attractive appointment. He was behind Atlético’s signings of Julián Alvarez (£64m from Manchester City) and Conor Gallagher (£34m from Chelsea) last summer. His best work includes securing Jan Oblak for just €4m and bringing Rodri to Madrid for €25m. Yet, not all his moves were successes — João Felix (€126m), Thomas Lemar (€60m), and Diego Costa (€55m) were costly deals that failed to deliver lasting impact.
Arsenal’s restructuring has been led by managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, and Josh Kroenke, with Mikel Arteta’s input. Other candidates for the role included Dan Ashworth, Monaco’s Thiago Scuro, and Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe, who will leave his club at the end of the season. Ayto remains highly regarded at Arsenal, and the club could carve out a role for him alongside Berta.
Despite Ayto’s capable stewardship, Arsenal endured a frustrating January transfer window, failing to sign a striker despite Gabriel Jesus’s injury. Their top target, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, was deemed too expensive, a decision that looked problematic after Kai Havertz tore his hamstring during a February training camp. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli also sidelined, the squad’s lack of attacking depth was exposed.
Berta’s arrival signals Arsenal’s intent to act decisively this summer. Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is their dream target, though he may be unattainable. They’ve closely monitored RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, while Wolves’ Matheus Cunha — whom Berta brought to Atlético in 2021 — could be a viable option.
Midfield reinforcements are also on the agenda, with a €60m deal for Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi already in place. With Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their contracts, bolstering the midfield is a priority. Arsenal also aim to strengthen at left-back, and securing contract extensions for Saka and William Saliba, whose deals run until 2027, will be key.
Berta’s track record of building resilient, competitive squads aligns with Arsenal’s ambitions. His ability to navigate complex negotiations could give the Gunners the edge they need to push for silverware next season. As Arsenal gear up for a crucial summer, Berta’s influence may prove decisive in shaping the club’s future.
