Arsenal are set to appoint Javier Berta as their new sporting director, replacing Edu, who resigned last November. After a thorough search, Berta, the 53-year-old Italian, has emerged as the top candidate for the role, with interim director Jason Ayto also considered.
Berta, who left Atlético Madrid in January after 12 years overseeing recruitment, played a key role in shaping one of Europe’s most competitive squads. Once contracts are finalized, Berta will join Arsenal immediately, giving him time to prepare for a crucial summer transfer window. He had been linked with a move to Milan, but his long-standing desire for a Premier League challenge made Arsenal an appealing option. His extensive experience in handling high-stakes transfers, including key signings like Julián Alvarez and Conor Gallagher last summer, makes him an attractive choice. Notable successes from his tenure at Atlético include securing Jan Oblak for just €4m and bringing Rodri to Madrid for €25m. However, his record isn’t flawless, with costly signings like João Felix, Thomas Lemar, and Diego Costa failing to deliver the expected returns.
Arsenal’s restructuring process has been led by managing director Richard Garlick, executive vice-chair Tim Lewis, and Josh Kroenke, with input from Mikel Arteta. Other candidates considered for the role included Dan Ashworth, Thiago Scuro of Monaco, and Roberto Olabe from Real Sociedad, who will leave his current position at the end of the season. Despite Ayto’s capable stewardship, Arsenal’s disappointing January transfer window—marked by a failure to sign a striker despite Gabriel Jesus’s injury—highlighted the need for fresh leadership. Top target Ollie Watkins was deemed too expensive, a decision that became problematic after Kai Havertz’s hamstring injury, and with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli also sidelined, the squad’s lack of attacking depth was exposed.
Berta’s appointment signals Arsenal’s intention to act decisively this summer. The club has identified Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as a top target, although his availability remains uncertain. They are also closely monitoring RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and could turn to Wolves’ Matheus Cunha, whom Berta brought to Atlético in 2021. 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 will be crucial. Arsenal also plan to strengthen their left-back position and secure contract extensions for key players like Saka and William Saliba, whose contracts run until 2027.
Berta’s track record of building resilient, competitive squads is in line with Arsenal’s ambitions, and his ability to navigate complex negotiations will give the club the edge needed to push for silverware next season. As the club prepares for a pivotal summer, Berta’s influence will be crucial in shaping Arsenal’s future and achieving long-term success.