Andrea Berta arrives at Arsenal to reshape Arteta’s project

Arsenal’s search for a new sports director has come to an end with the appointment of Andrea Berta. The 53-year-old Italian, previously Atletico Madrid’s team manager, will replace Edu Gaspar, who departed in November. Berta’s task will be pivotal in driving the club’s recruitment strategy, ensuring that the Gunners remain competitive in the Premier League.

Berta’s track record at Atletico, where he was instrumental in high-profile transfers like Antoine Griezmann and Rodri, has made him one of the most respected figures in football recruitment. Now, as he takes his first role in English tournament, he faces the challenge of improving Arsenal’s squad while balancing the institution’s financial constraints.

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Who is Andrea Berta and why has Arsenal chosen him as sporting director?

Andrea Berta, a veteran of the football move market, has been named as Arsenal’s new sports executive. Known for his influential role at Atletico Madrid, Berta helped the club secure high-profile signings and make profitable deals. His expertise in navigating the player recruitment, especially his success in signing athletes like Rodri and Antoine Griezmann, earned him a stellar reputation. Now, as he steps into his first mission in Premier League, Berta faces the task of shaping Arsenal’s selection strategy and building a staff capable of competing at the top of the Premiership.

Gunner’s decision to bring Berta on board follows the departure of Edu Gaspar, and it signals the club’s ambition to remain competitive at the highest level. Mikel Arteta has been heavily involved in the process, ensuring that Berta's arrival aligns with his vision for the team. With Arsenal challenging for the title, Berta’s job will be pivotal in helping to secure the right footballers to bolster Arteta’s squad and keep the franchise moving forward.

What signings and renewals does Andrea Berta have in mind for Arsenal’s future?

As Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta’s first major objective will be to address the club’s pressing need for new arrivals, particularly in the forward position. With the institution’s long-standing interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and the potential addition of a dynamic winger, Berta is expected to spearhead these key transfers. The challenge for him will be to act swiftly in securing deals ahead of the summer switch window.

Alongside strengthening the personnel, the Italian manager will also be tasked with overseeing crucial contract extensions. Bukayo Saka, one of the organization's most valuable assets, is entering the final stages of his pact, and ensuring his long-term future at the association will be a priority. William Saliba, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Magalhaes are also on the list of players to be tied down to new deals. With the side's wage bill increasing, these negotiations will be delicate, and Berta will need to strike a balance between offering competitive wages and maintaining Arsenal’s self-sustaining financial model.