Arsenal have appointed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director.
Berta became the leading candidate to replace Edu after he resigned from his role to take up a position in the network of clubs headed by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. He has begun work with immediate effect.
The 53-year-old departed Atletico Madrid in January after a 12-year spell.
'I am thrilled to be joining Arsenal in what is a hugely exciting period for the club,' Berta said, via Arsenal's official website.
'I have watched with great interest the way Arsenal has evolved in recent years and I have admired the hard work that has gone in to re-establishing the club as a major force in European football with a passionate following around the world.