Arsenal confirm appointment of 'impressive' new sporting director | OneFootball

Arsenal have confirmed the arrival of Andrea Berta as the club's new sporting director, with the club's co-chair Josh Kroenke hailing the transfer specialist as "an impressive figure".

The Gunners were thrown into disarray by the shock departure of Edu in November. The Brazilian's former deputy Jason Ayto took over on a temporary basis and oversaw a deeply underwhelming January transfer window.

After an extensive scouting period which saw Arsenal look at several candidates - including the freshly dismissed Manchester United chief Dan Ashworth - Mikel Arteta's side plumped for Berta.

"I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club," the Italian director who spent almost 12 years at Atletico Madrid said upon his arrival.

"I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to reestablishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.

"The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team. I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters."

The club's co-chair Kroenke added: "Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure. He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.

"Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.

"We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea's experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out.

"We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family."