Arsenal have reportedly won the race to appoint former Atlético Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta, beating AC Milan to his signature. The Gunners have been in advanced talks with the Italian executive as they look to fill the vacant position left by Edu’s departure last year.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Berta rejected an approach from Milan, who had placed him on a three-man shortlist alongside Fabio Paratici and Igli Tare. The Serie A giants have now withdrawn from the race, believing that Berta is set to join Arsenal.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed on Monday that the North London club is deep in negotiations with Berta, who has impressed with his work at Atlético Madrid. However, while discussions are progressing positively, a final agreement is yet to be reached.
Arsenal are determined to secure a top-tier sporting director after a quiet January transfer window. Berta, renowned for his ability to identify talent and construct competitive squads, played a key role in transforming Atlético Madrid into a dominant force in both Spain and Europe.
With Arsenal aiming for their first Premier League title since 2004 and a maiden Champions League triumph, securing the right personnel behind the scenes is crucial. Berta’s extensive experience and global scouting network could be instrumental in strengthening Mikel Arteta’s squad for the challenges ahead.
Berta left Atlético Madrid in December and is reportedly eager for a fresh challenge at a club with high ambitions. His potential arrival at Arsenal would be seen as a significant coup, given his successful track record in squad building and player recruitment.
Since joining Atlético Madrid in 2013 as technical director, Berta has been pivotal in assembling squads that reached two Champions League finals, won two La Liga titles, and secured multiple domestic and European trophies. Under his leadership, Atlético consistently challenged Spain’s traditional powerhouses, turning La Liga’s duopoly into a genuine three-team contest.
