When Edu worked as general co-ordinator of the Brazil national team, one of his key roles was to liaise with the agents and families of the players to make sure they had everything they needed, such as tickets and travel credentials.
He came to know them well during his three-year stint, building on relationships established in his time as sporting director of Corinthians. This network of communication proved invaluable as Arsenal stole a march on their rivals in the race to sign Gabriel Jesus.
Edu was aware Jesus had tried to leave Manchester City before in search of regular football.