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.

However, a source has told ESPN that the north London club have progressed conversations with Berta in recent days and his appointment could be confirmed in the next week. Arsenal

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.