Next shocking move comes to a close as Arsenal announce Brazilian transfer kingpin’s departure

Arsenal sporting director Edu has officially resigned from his role and agreed in principle to a deal with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.

The exact details of the role are yet to be confirmed and a formal deal is yet to be finalized, but Arsenal have confirmed the news, which is believed to be fully EduThe decision was in a statement on Monday evening.

Indeed, TT reported earlier on Monday that The real reasons behind the Brazilian’s decision to leave from the Emirates.

And now Arsenal confirmed his departure: “Edu has resigned as our sporting director. Edu, our former player and Invincible, rejoined us as Technical Director in July 2019. He rose through the ranks at the club and was appointed sporting director in November 2022, overseeing men’s, women’s and academy football.

“We thank Eda for the role he has played in our renewed football strategy and for taking the club forward with Arsenal’s values ​​at heart.

While Arsenal are disappointed by the departure of their former midfielder, it is claimed that reports of a power struggle at the club are untrue. Indeed, Edu is looking to take on a new challenge and role after many years as sporting director/technical director at club and international level.

Having previously worked for Corinthians and Brazil in a similar role, the role he will take on under Marinakis is one not seen in many football organizations.

Marinakis’ group of clubs includes Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave, and they are only looking for a fourth club in Europe.

READ MORE Ranking EVERY player who signed Arsenal under Edu, from worst to best after shock decision to leave

Edu says goodbye to Arsenal

Edu, who has spent the last five years in north London, added: “This was an incredibly difficult decision.

“Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many great people and the chance to be part of something special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they have given me.

“I have enjoyed working with many great colleagues from our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.

“Now it’s time to take on another challenge. Arsenal will forever remain in my heart. I wish the club and its fans only good things and all the best.”

The 46-year-old was responsible for the signings of Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, as well as helping to offload the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mesut Ozil.

Arsenal co-chairman Josh Kroenke added: “We respect Edu’s decision and thank him for his enormous contribution and dedication to the development of the club.

“Everyone at the club wishes him all the best. We all love him so much and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.

“Change and evolution are part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning big trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this ongoing ambition.”

Latest Arsenal news: Isak becomes top striker target / PSG intensifies search for Saliba

Arsenal have identified Newcastle star Alexander Isak as their top transfer target as they look to attract a world-class striker, reports TEAMtalk.

Mikel Arteta is keen to provide more competition for Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus and the Gunners have drawn up a list of players that fit the profile they are looking for.

Sources exclusively told TEAMtalk that Isak wants to join a club that regularly competes for trophies and consistently qualify for the Champions League.

Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain have reportedly ‘offered’ £80m to Arsenal for the services of centre-back William Saliba. this is an offer described as “hard to refuse”.

IN FOCUS: Arsenal’s most expensive acquisitions of the Edu era