Arsenal BOMBSHELL: Berta plots €100m reunion

Cameron Smith

19 Mar 2025 01:30 CDT
4 min read

Andrea Berta, Mikel Arteta, Arsenal — © IMAGO

Andrea Berta is reportedly interested in bringing Pablo Barrios with him from Atletico Madrid when he joins Arsenal later this year.

Berta is expected to be appointed as Arsenal’s new sporting director shortly, after leaving Atleti in January, and he will be responsible for one of the club’s biggest transfer windows in recent memory.

Article continues under the video

The Gunners have been tipped to spend a huge pool of money on reinforcements this summer, with the club aiming to sign a goalkeeper, at least one central midfielder, a winger and a centre forward before the 2025-26 campaign begins.

FootballTransfers understands that Joan Garcia, Martin Zubimendi, Sverre Nypan, Nico Williams and Benjamin Sesko are being targeted for those positions, although a number of other players are also on Arsenal’s radar, including Alexander Isak.

In addition, fellow Newcastle United superstar Bruno Guimaraes has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium too, while Mikel Arteta’s side are also monitoring the aforementioned Barrios.

The Spaniard has enjoyed a sublime season at Atletico Madrid and Berta is eager to sign him when he is officially appointed by Arsenal, according to TBR Football.

Berta is a huge admirer of Barrios, following their time together at the Wanda Metropolitano, and he has reportedly set his sights on completing a deal for the 21-year-old this summer.

© IMAGO - Arsenal reportedly want to sign Pablo Barrios

Arsenal want Pablo Barrios

Barrios has a €100 million release clause included in his current deal with Atletico Madrid, and given he is contracted to the club until 2028, the Spanish giants are unlikely to sanction an exit unless this clause is triggered.

As a result, Arsenal will need to make him their second-most expensive signing of all time, behind only Declan Rice.

Barrios has made 31 appearances across all competitions so far this campaign, providing two assists, while his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently stands at €56.4m.