Berta's track record at Atletico speaks for itself – he played a key role in signing stars like Rodri, Jan Oblak, and Luis Suarez. However, his reputation for stopping deals was just as remarkable as his ability to seal them.
Last year, reports surfaced that he vetoed Atletico's moves for both Adrien Rabiot and Boubacar Kamara due to concerns about their private lives. According to RMC Sport, Berta told French agent Bruno Satin: "I had two conversations with Adrien Rabiot's mother and stopped negotiations immediately because she was explaining where her son should play."
He also reportedly pulled the plug on a deal for Kamara – now shining at Aston Villa – after visiting his home, where he found him barefoot, in shorts, and casually entertaining friends. Berta's meticulous approach suggests he won't just focus on securing top talent for Arsenal, but also on ensuring they bring in certain personalities.
His emphasis on character and professionalism could be a defining factor in shaping the club's future, and supporters on social media seem thrilled at the prospect of such a principled person running the show. "[He's] definitely not a yes man, they are in short supply at the Emirates," one fan wrote on X. "Imagine if someone had stood up and said 'this is BS, we are getting players on loan now' in January, we can now just imagine."
Another commented: "Yep, defo not a yes man I'll give him that." A third added: "Great to hear. Can't stand talented player who ruin it by being difficult behind the scenes."
But before Arsenal fans get too carried away, it's worth noting that Berta hasn't always struck gold in the transfer market. He was responsible for some costly misfires, including Joao Felix for £113million, Alvaro Morata for £58m, and Diego Costa's return for £57m – only for Costa to manage just 12 La Liga goals across three seasons in his second spell at Atletico.
He also splashed £63m on Thomas Lemar, and allowed talents like Toby Alderweireld, Diogo Jota and Theo Hernandez to leave for what, in hindsight, were bargain fees. Nevertheless, Arsenal co-chair Josh Kroenke praised Berta's "great track record" and insisted he'd be a "great addition" to the club.
"Anyone who knows football knows Andrea is an impressive figure," Kroenke said in a statement published on Arsenal's website. "He has vast knowledge of the game, a great track record, a strong network and an insatiable desire to build winning teams.
"Andrea will be a great addition to our club. He understands our values and what we stand for and we have no doubt he will help us push on and take the next steps in our bid to win major trophies.
"We undertook a thorough recruitment process and we were hugely impressed with the level of all the other candidates, but it was Andrea's experience and the success he has enjoyed that stood out. We are really looking forward to working together and welcoming him into the Arsenal family."
Andrea himself admitted he was "thrilled" to be joining Arsenal in what he described as "a hugely exciting period" for the London club. "I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone into re-establishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world," he said.
Andrea Berta
Andrea Berta isn't afraid to say no to players if he thinks they don't have the right personality
"The club has great values and a rich history, and I am looking forward to playing my part in shaping a successful future with a great team. I cannot wait to get started in my new role and I am really looking forward to experiencing my first game at Emirates Stadium together with our supporters."
Berta's first task will be securing a new No. 9, with Arsenal linked with the likes of Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Victor Osimhen. It's understood the Gunners will have a sizeable transfer war chest to play with this summer, with additions expected to be made all over the pitch.
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