Arsenal have initiated discussions to secure a key transfer target ahead of the summer transfer window. Incoming sporting director Andrea Berta is anticipated to make a formal bid.
Mikel Arteta Excited About Andrea Berta’s Impact at Arsenal
The upcoming arrival of Andrea Berta as sporting director at Emirates Stadium is generating considerable excitement. He is seen as a highly capable replacement for Edu Gaspar and is expected to commence his role soon.
Arteta wants Arsenal to sign a proven striker as £54m player considers London move
The Spanish manager has made a specific striker request.
Andrea Berta’s successful 12-year tenure at Atlético Madrid, before his departure in January, included notable deals such as selling Antoine Griezmann to Barcelona for £108 million in 2019 and then re-signing him for just £17 million three years later.
Berta’s pre-existing relationship with Wolves’ Matheus Cunha from their time together at Atlético Madrid has fueled speculation about Arsenal potentially pursuing the Brazilian player this summer. Cunha reportedly has a £62.5 million release clause.
| Arsenal’s next five Premier League games | Date |
|---|---|
| Chelsea (home) | March 16th |
| Fulham (home) | April 1st |
| Everton (away) | April 5th |
| Brentford (home) | April 12th |
| Ipswich Town (away) | April 20th |
While Berta’s influence could encourage a move for Cunha, reports also suggest he has other key targets for the summer. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams are all reportedly on Arsenal’s shortlist. Berta’s connections in La Liga could be advantageous in pursuing these players.
Mikel Arteta has expressed his enthusiasm for Berta’s arrival, believing he can elevate the club to “the next level.”
“For me, the best thing is that the ownership, board, and everyone are aligned in believing he is the right person to take us to the next level,” Arteta commented regarding Berta’s appointment.
Arsenal are also reportedly interested in strengthening their defense this summer, with Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen reportedly high on Berta’s list.
Arsenal Interested in Bournemouth Defender Dean Huijsen
According to reports from CaughtOffside, Arsenal have already started talks to sign Dean Huijsen, well in advance of the summer transfer window. They are among several Premier League clubs expected to bid around £30 million for the defender.
Dean Huijsen, a Spain Under-21 international, has impressed at Bournemouth. His reported £50+ million release clause, becoming active this summer, has attracted interest from top clubs.
It is suggested that Arsenal and Berta might initially make a lower offer to gauge Bournemouth’s position. However, given Huijsen’s strong performances since joining from Juventus, it’s considered unlikely they will succeed with a low bid.
Even Real Madrid, the current European champions, are reportedly interested in Huijsen, highlighting the 19-year-old’s significant potential. He has been described as a ‘sensational’ prospect by media sources.
Vihaan Mehrotra