Berta is a connections guy, a deals guy. His work, particularly at Atletico Madrid, is central to his reputation. He brings a brash confidence, a new outlook and his own way of doing things. He appears to be more from the Raul Sanllehi school than the Edu one.

Jason Ayto, who is Arsenal’s assistant sporting director, had stepped up to be the interim sporting director after Edu left. It remains to be seen what his future holds, but the club are known to be big fans of him and he was candidate to replace Edu.

Andrea Berta is set to become Arsenal’s new sporting director after reaching an agreement with the club. His appointment will mark a major shift in the Gunners’ recruitment strategy as they