Andrea Berta, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director since March, is actively managing multiple transfer and contract negotiations as the summer window approaches.
Following the club’s successful pursuit of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, Berta is now focusing on four other important moves to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season.
Renowned transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano recently confirmed that Arsenal has secured a verbal agreement with Zubimendi, who has agreed to a long-term deal. The transfer is expected to be finalized soon, with Arsenal prepared to activate his €60 million release clause, making Zubimendi the club’s first official signing of the upcoming campaign.
Alongside Zubimendi’s acquisition, Berta is intensifying efforts to sign a new striker, a position Arsenal has prioritized for reinforcement. Graeme Bailey of TBR Football reported that the club has shown significant interest in Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, one of Europe’s top scorers in 2025 with 25 goals to his name.
Arsenal is believed to have submitted an initial bid of approximately €75 million (£63 million) for the Swedish forward. However, Berta is also weighing the option of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as an alternative. Bailey emphasized that while either Gyokeres or Sesko is likely to be Arsenal’s primary striker target, no final decision has been made yet.
In addition to these transfer pursuits, Berta is committed to securing the futures of key first-team players. Bailey revealed that contract extension talks are underway with William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Magalhaes.
Among these, Saliba’s renewal is viewed as a top priority, particularly amid speculation linking the French defender to Real Madrid. Reports suggest that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has privately expressed his admiration for Saliba during recent conversations with Arsenal officials following their Champions League encounter.
Bailey highlighted that Berta is determined to finalize new deals for these three core players, ensuring Arsenal retains its defensive and attacking foundations while adding fresh talent. Furthermore, Berta is reportedly seeking to enhance Arsenal’s attacking options on the flanks.
While AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has been monitored, Athletic Club’s Nico Williams is believed to be the favored target. Williams recently distanced himself from a move to Barcelona, which could pave the way for Arsenal to advance their interest in the winger.
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