Mikel Arteta issues 'big' Andrea Berta verdict with clear Arsenal transfer plan

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has outlined the impact he believes Andrea Berta will bring to the club following the club's recent appointment.

The Gunners confirmed on Sunday that Berta had been named as the club's new sporting director, replacing Edu who left the Emirates Stadium back in November. Jason Ayto had been serving in interim charge before Berta was appointed, with Berta now expected to oversee the transfer strategy at the club.

Berta had previously worked as the technical director at Atletico Madrid, spending close to 12 years with the La Liga outfit before taking on the role at Arsenal. The 53-year-old will now be looking ahead to the summer transfer window, with the Gunners already being linked with several potential new signings, particularly a centre forward.

During his time in Madrid, Berta oversaw several important signings for the Spanish club, including Rodri, Jan Oblak, Antoine Griezmann, Luis Suarez, and most recently, Julian Alvarez.

Arteta was asked about Arsenal's appointment of Berta, emphasising why he believes it's a good fit for all parties. The Gunners boss also outlined what he thinks Berta will bring to the club that made his time at Atletico such a success.

"Well we certainly believe he [Berta] is someone who is going to impact the club. His will to win, is very contagious," Arteta told reporters on Monday.

"The words that come out are always about winning. Very clear vision about what he wants to do.

"He had many other possibilities, and he's chosen to come to us."

Arteta added: "Yes I think he's a big addition to the club, to the team. With James [King, director of football operations] with Jason [Ayto], it's about building about that chemistry with the club."

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