Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Campos is among the contenders to replace Edu at Arsenal, it has been claimed.
Technical director Edu left the club after five years, and is expected to link up with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. The Brazilian, who also spent time on Arsenal’s books as a player, is understood to have rejected a last-gasp offer to keep him in North London.
A number of names have been mentioned as potential successors to the transfer chief, including former Arsenal stars Per Mertesacker and Tomas Rosicky. Invincibles star Gilberto Silva has also been asked whether he might step into the role having previously held a similar post with Panathinaikos.
Campos is the latest name mentioned in connection with a move, though. The Portuguese is under contract with PSG until the end of the current season, potentially freeing him up for a new challenge.
Sky Sports reports that a number of senior Arsenal figures have held future-planning meetings in Los Angeles during the international break. Manager Mikel Arteta is understood to have jetted out for meetings with owners Stan and Josh Kroenke, directors Tim Lewis and Richard Garlick, and assistant sporting director Jason Ayto.
The same publication indicates the meeting was scheduled before Edu’s exit, though potential successors are said to have been discussed. Campos isn’t the only name thought to be among the front-runners, though.
West Ham are reported to be concerned Arsenal might move for their transfer guru Tim Steidten, while Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe is due to leave the Spanish club in the summer and could be an option. Simon Rolfes’ name has also reportedly been put forward to the club after his work with Bayer Leverkusen – the club where he also finished his own playing career.
Who would be the best fit for Arsenal? Have your say in the comments section
Campos joined PSG in the summer of 2022, having previously worked with fellow Ligue 1 sides Monaco and Lille. He replaced Leonardo in the role, setting up a reunion with Kylian Mbappe after the pair worked together in Monaco’s 2016-17 title-winning season.
During his two-and-a-half years in the French capital, Campos has helped change the profile of signing made at the Parc des Princes. They moved on from high-earning older players, with Lionel Messi and Neymar leaving in 2023, and built a squad with a younger age profile.
A number of French players arrived in the summer of 2023, including Bradley Barcola, Ousmane Dembele and Randal Kolo Muani, while Desire Doue followed in the most recent close-season. PSG are chasing a fourth successive Ligue 1 title this season, and at the time of writing they sit six points clear of closest challengers Monaco.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read ourPrivacy Notice.
