Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director, Andrea Berta, has halted several major transfer moves. The club officially confirmed Berta’s appointment on Sunday, with the 53-year-old Italian taking over from Edu, who left in November. Andrea Berta’s decision to block big-name transfers highlights the character Arsenal is acquiring
Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director, Andrea Berta, is wasting no time making his presence felt at the Emirates. Just days after the club officially confirmed his appointment, reports have emerged that the highly respected Italian executive has halted several major transfer moves initially planned for this summer window.
The 53-year-old, who arrives from Atlético Madrid with a reputation for sharp recruitment and a keen eye for building disciplined, competitive squads, has already begun reshaping Arsenal’s transfer strategy.
“We’re entering a new chapter at Arsenal — one that demands clarity, conviction, and a very specific type of player,” Berta reportedly stated during internal meetings. “It’s not just about names; it’s about the character we bring into this club.”
Berta’s bold decision to block several big-name deals, believed to include marquee forwards and midfielders previously identified by the club’s scouting network, marks a clear shift in Arsenal’s approach. Instead of chasing star power, Berta is said to be prioritizing players who align with Mikel Arteta’s tactical philosophy and possess the mentality to thrive under pressure in one of the Premier League’s most demanding environments.
“Andrea’s arrival signals a serious, disciplined era for Arsenal,” a club source revealed. “He wants fighters, professionals with the right mindset — not just headline-makers.”
The Gunners officially announced Berta’s appointment on Sunday, with the Italian taking over from Edu Gaspar, who departed the role back in November. During his tenure at Atlético Madrid, Berta was credited with assembling Diego Simeone’s famously resilient and hard-working squads, including the side that won LaLiga in 2021.
Many Arsenal supporters have welcomed the move, hoping Berta’s influence can help the club build on its recent resurgence and return to consistent title contention.
Though some fans were initially disappointed to hear that high-profile transfer targets might be off the table, early reactions suggest most appreciate the focus on discipline, character, and a sustainable long-term vision.
With the summer window fast approaching, Arsenal’s recruitment strategy is now expected to center around intelligent, targeted signings rather than blockbuster deals — a philosophy that could define the club’s identity in the seasons ahead.
One thing is clear: under Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s transfer market dealings are about to get a whole lot sharper.