Arsenal could target duo as 'boardroom row' drops hint about Edu replacement option

Arsenal could be set for a shake-up in their recruitment strategy with the potential appointment of West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten, as a replacement for Edu. The Gunners have been left reeling from the departure of the Brazilian, who has played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s resurgence as Premier League contenders under Mikel Arteta.

Jason Ayto, previously Edu’s deputy, has stepped into the breach temporarily while the club identifies suitable candidates for a permanent replacement. Steidten, who formerly held a similar position at Bayer Leverkusen, is considered one of the frontrunners despite West Ham’s recent chequered history in the transfer market.

The Hammers splashed out over £100million in the summer but have struggled to make headway under new boss Julen Lopetegui. Adding to the unrest at the London Stadium, it’s reported that Steidten was overruled on certain decisions, leading to missed opportunities on key targets.

Last month, The Sun reported that the German was left exasperated by the club’s failure to secure the signing of Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, a deal which seemed all but certain. It’s also suggested that Steidten had his sights set on Lille forward Jonathan David, only for the board to recoil at the price tag.

Should Steidten be appointed by Arsenal, he could potentially rekindle his interest in the pair. Duran has emerged as one of Europe’s most potent super-subs this season, but still finds himself behind Ollie Watkins in Unai Emery’s pecking order.

Given his willingness to move to West Ham – he was reprimanded by Villa for making a ‘crossed Hammers’ gesture on social media before the transfer fell through – and his limited starting opportunities, it’s possible that Villa may consider cashing in on the Colombian.

However, after signing a new contract in October, any potential suitor would need to meet a hefty price tag, with the Gunners reportedly having a £45million bid rejected by Villa.

David, 24, continues to be one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers, enjoying another prolific season with Lille in Ligue 1. He has also impressed in the Champions League, scoring against both Madrid teams in this season’s revamped competition.

The Canadian could be a more feasible target, with his contract set to expire next summer. David, who has been linked with Liverpool and Juventus, reportedly has no plans to renew his contract with the French club.

For now, Arsenal are not rushing to find Edu’s successor. Club executives are due to fly to the US next week for a pre-arranged meeting with the owners, the Kroenke family. The appointment of a new sporting director will undoubtedly be on the agenda, as will the upcoming transfer window, which is crucial for the Gunners as they aim to claw their way back into the title race.