Jason Ayto is impressing at Arsenal behind the scenes despite failing to sign a forward for the club in January, suggesting he could be in line for the sporting director job on a permanent basis.
Sami Mokbel reports for the Daily Mail that Arsenal’s interim sporting director Jason Ayto is effectively taking part in an on-the-job interview for the club’s permanent position, and he’s doing well so far.
Whilst many outside of the club have suggested that the Gunners failed in the January market by not making an attacking signing, Mokbel reports that those on the inside claim Ayto’s approach has impressed.
Completing a move for a player like Alvaro Morata or Mathys Tel may have led to some short-term popularity, but perhaps damage the club’s longer-term transfer plans.
Even so, you’d think Arsenal’s decision to delay a forward signing (once again) will be judged on what happens over the next six months.
Win a trophy and use the summer window to sign a priority target, and it will look like a masterclass not to waste funds on a short-term fix.
Go trophyless and fail to land the club’s top targets, only to end up with the kind of player who doesn’t solve Arsenal’s problems up front, and it will just be another wasted season.
And that could have knock-on effects for key players in contract negotiations, with the likes of Bukayo Saka and William Saliba only tied down until 2027.
With Gabriel Martinelli now out of action for a month with an injury, the odds are already starting to be stacked against everything turning out for the best.
Ayto’s decision not to gamble on a January signing is a gamble in itself. Right now it’s one the club seem to view positively, but that could change.