Andrea Berta Could Raid Atlético Madrid For £84m Star This Summer

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Arsenal are gearing up for what is expected to be a pivotal summer transfer window, with a new striker at the top of their priority list. The Gunners have been linked with several high-profile forwards, including RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who is reportedly their primary target. However, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak remains another name under consideration despite his hefty £150 million price tag, while there have also been recent mentions of Atlético Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios.

Arsenal are also looking to finalise the appointment of a new sporting director later this month following Edu Gaspar’s departure in November. Jason Ayto has been serving in an interim role but has faced criticism for failing to secure any signings during the January transfer window. That decision backfired when Kai Havertz suffered a hamstring injury, leaving Mikel Arteta without a recognised striker for the remainder of the season.

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Andrea Berta, the former Atlético Madrid sporting director, is widely expected to take over the role. Berta is renowned for his talent-spotting and squad-building expertise, having helped transform Atlético into one of Europe’s elite clubs. Under his leadership, the Spanish side won two La Liga titles, reached two Champions League finals, and secured multiple domestic and international trophies.

According to TBR Football, Berta remains fond of Atlético Madrid midfielder Pablo Barrios from his time in Spain and is reportedly impressed by the 21-year-old’s development this season.

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Barrios has made 31 appearances under Diego Simeone in the current campaign, including both legs of Atlético’s Champions League knockout tie against Real Madrid. His performances earned him a first call-up to the Spanish national team in late 2024, where he featured alongside Arsenal’s David Raya and Mikel Merino.

Arsenal have long admired Pablo Barrios, and with Berta’s arrival, speculation could grow over a potential move. However, the midfielder has a release clause of €100 million (£84 million), a fee Arsenal are unlikely to pay.

While it remains unclear if Berta will push for his former player, the Italian sporting director holds Barrios in high regard and could explore alternatives to strengthen Arsenal’s midfield.