Mikel Arteta makes 'very good' Edu replacement claim amid Stan Kroenke talks

Mikel Arteta says his recent trip to the United States to meet Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke was a ‘positive’ time, as the Gunners continue their search to replace departed sporting director Edu.

The Spaniard met with Stan and Josh Kroenke after the game against Chelsea on November 10, with a number of discussion points, including the January transfer window and Edu's replacement.

Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak are among the names admired by those within the Sobha Realty Training Centre, while several outgoings are expected over the next two transfer windows.

“It’s always really positive to spend time together,” he said.

“We had time to talk about the [transfer] windows, but as well about the club, how we’re feeling about what we’re doing and how we’re feeling about where we’re going to take the club and the direction, and Edu.

“It’s a lot of topics there, but again it’s a joy to spend time with them because there’s a lot to learn. They have so much experience in sport because you feel the ambition, especially when you are there.

“They are very far away, but how closely they live every day with us and what we want to achieve together, it feels great.”

Edu’s exit has paved the way for assistant sporting director Jason Ayto to step up as interim.

Ayto began scouting for Arsenal in 2014 and worked his way up to the club's recruitment co-ordinator, eventually becoming Edu’s assistant.

LondonWorld understands that Arsenal are exploring multiple options for a permanent replacement but are yet to make a final decision, leaving Ayto to oversee the role in the interim.

“He’s very good, Jason and all the team. Edu and I probably got a lot of praise, but the work behind that is done by these guys.

“The ambition is phenomenal, it’s not easy to wake up one day and you’re having to move to a different office and do a different job like he was for the team, but again the speed of how people react and how they are willing to say: “OK, that’s it, that’s the situation, let’s move forward.”

“With that ambition and with that determination and enthusiasm, that’s something great.”

Arsenal’s shortlist includes Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe and Paris Saint-Germain advisor Luis Campos, while they are also considering internal options including Per Mertesacker and the aforementioned Ayto.