EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal begin talks with technical director Edu over a new long-term contract after his star signings guided Mikel Arteta's side to top of the table... amid growing interest in the Brazilian
- Edu has impressed in his role as the Gunners' transfer guru in recent years
- The Premier League leaders have begun discussions over a new contract
- But there is concrete interest in the Brazilian from two of Europe's biggest clubs
Arsenal have moved to secure the future of technical director Edu after the Brazilian's impressive summer transfer window.
The 44-year-old led what has been viewed as a hugely effective close season for the Gunners during which they signed key players Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from Manchester City - but also offloaded a number of the club's unwanted stars as they looked to reduce their wage bill.
Arsenal are reaping the benefits of the club's summer transfer business as they sit top of the Premier League after 11 matches.
Arsenal have begun discussions with technical director Edu over a new long-term deal
Edu (left) is believed to be happy in his role at the Emirates with Arsenal top of the league table
Edu - who played for Arsenal - is developing a reputation as one of the most impressive football administrators in European football and the Gunners want their former midfielder to sign a contract renewal.
Sportsmail understands that the wheels are in motion towards a new deal for the Edu, which Arsenal hope will secure his long-term future amid growing interest in their technical director.
There has been concrete interest from at least two European clubs in Edu, something Arsenal are understood to be aware of. Sources have described the interest in Edu as 'very interesting'.
The Brazilian transfer guru has caught the attention from at least two of Europe's big clubs
Edu has developed a close working relationship with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
The 44-year-old is keen to stay at Arsenal after building a strong team in recent years
However, Edu is believed to be happy at the Emirates and indications are that the South American is minded to commit to the Premier League club.
Edu's stance will come as a major boost to the Gunners as they prepare for the winter transfer window, though an agreement over an extension is yet to be finalised.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are finalising plans for mini pre-season in Dubai during the World Cup.
It is understood Arsenal are looking to arrange up to three fixtures in the United Arab Emirates ahead of the Premier League's return on Boxing Day.
Most watched Sport videos
- Luke Davico at the Raiders V Bulldogs grand final in 1994
- Kyle Walker and his wife 'consider moving to Saudi Arabia'
- Arsenal pay tribute to Gunners fan Daniel Anjorin at the Emirates
- Ed Sheeran celebrates Ipswich Town's promotion from Miami
- Jurgen Klopp attacks English football and 'overworked' Premier League
- Vunipola recalls the moment he was tasered twice by police
- Jake Paul presses Ryan Garcia on failed drug test during livestream
- Liverpool manager reflects on winning game against Tottenham
- Guardiola: 'Haaland was frustrated but I can guarantee he is happy'
- Liverpool training clip goes viral for 'squad showing no intensity'
- Ryan Garcia performs rap song on stage at Las Vegas' Zouk Nightclub
- 'Hugely disappointing outcome': Spurs manager reflects on loss