Edu confirms change to Arsenal transfer approach ahead of 'very, very busy' summer window

Arsenal sporting director Edu has confirmed a change in his summer plans ahead of what he describes as a 'very, very busy' summer transfer window.

The Gunners are expected to do big business this summer after finishing second in the Premier League table behind Manchester City.

Mikel Arteta's side led the table for a total of 248 days, but fell away towards the end of the season as City powered towards their third successive Premier League crown.

The Daily Mail reported on Monday that the Gunners will have an initial transfer budget of £180 million, which can be further boosted by player sales.

With speculation surrounding the futures of Granit Xhaka, Folarin Balogun and Kieran Tierney, among others, Arsenal's budget could comfortably pass the £200 million mark.

They have been linked with big-money moves for West Ham's Declan Rice and Brighton's Moises Caicedo as Arteta looks to add to his midfield.

And speaking ahead of the window, Edu has confirmed a significant personal change ahead of the window.

Edu confirms transfer change

Arsenal have had success in the South American market in recent years, signing Gabriel Martinelli from Brazilian side Ituano in 2018.

They also brought young winger Marquinhos to north London from Sao Paulo last summer, and have been linked with making a move for 17-year-old Corinthians starlet Pedrinho.

Those deals have been aided by Edu, a former Brazil midfielder, who utilises contacts within his home country to help get those moves over the line.

But the Arsenal sporting director has confirmed that he will change his approach to transfers this summer in favour of a more direct approach in north London - and will not travel to Brazil.

Sky Sports News reporter James Green tweeted: "Edu said to me how pleased he is that the mentality at Arsenal has changed from celebrating top four to being disappointed with how the season finished. Expects club to push on this summer.

"Edu also told me he won't be going too far this summer, no trips to Brazil, because he wants to be close by to be able to have face to face meetings. He is expecting to be very very busy."