Perfect move sealed by Evangelos Marinakis in preparation to Champions League Football as Edu’s move to London Stadium already attracting BIG name players including 2019 Arsenal record signing.
Former Arsenal sporting director Edu, credited with transforming the club into a Premier League title contender under Mikel Arteta, has surprisingly moved to Nottingham Forest. Known as one of the world’s top sporting directors, Edu’s departure raised speculation that he left Arsenal for financial reasons. However, it’s been reported he actually turned down a pay rise to stay with the Gunners.
Now appointed global head of football by owner Evangelos Marinakis, Edu will oversee operations for Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos, and Rio Ave. His addition strengthens Nuno Espirito Santo’s Forest squad, which currently sits in third place in the Premier League, exceeding expectations.
Here are seven of Edu’s past Arsenal signings who could potentially follow him to Forest:
1. **Dani Ceballos**
After an underwhelming two-year loan with Arsenal (2019-2021), Ceballos returned to Real Madrid, where he remains on the fringes under Carlo Ancelotti. As he seeks more playing time, a return to the Premier League could be on the horizon.
2. **Albert Sambi Lokonga**
Currently on loan at Sevilla, Lokonga has had a challenging stint and may regret leaving the Premier League. Previously solid for Luton Town, he could be a valuable addition for Forest as they aim for a top-half finish.
3. **Nicolas Pepe**
Signed for a record £72 million, Pepe didn’t meet expectations at Arsenal before moving to Trabzonspor on a free transfer. The 29-year-old is now performing well with Villarreal and could be a wildcard replacement at Forest if Newcastle moves for Anthony Elanga.
4. **Aaron Ramsdale**
Forest has gone through numerous goalkeepers in recent years. If Ramsdale faces another relegation with Southampton, Forest may consider him as an option to replace their aging Mats Sels.
5. **Kieran Tierney**
Tierney, sidelined by injuries and competition in Arsenal’s improved squad, still has the quality to start for most Premier League teams. If he can stay healthy, he’d be a strong candidate for Forest, likely upgrading their current left-back options.
6. **Takehiro Tomiyasu**
Tomiyasu, a versatile defender but plagued by injuries, has been a valuable asset to Arteta. Though Arteta previously resisted letting him go, Tomiyasu’s injury history could lead to a transfer. If Forest can keep him fit, he’d be a significant signing.
7. **Fabio Vieira**
Struggling to settle in the Premier League, Vieira is on loan at Porto but has yet to impress. As Forest looks to add creative options, Vieira could be a useful addition to Nuno’s front line alongside players like Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
This list of potential moves showcases Edu’s knack for spotting talent, as well as Forest’s intent to reinforce their lineup in pursuit of even higher ambitions this season.