Arsenal completed the signing of Willian on Friday and in what was a rare media appearance, we heard from Edu Gaspar on the clubs transfer plans for this summer.
Our technical director is delighted to have signed his Brazilian compatriot, and says the deal is the first step in “a big process”.
“He has a lot of fantastic attributes as a person, as a football player of course, his character,” Edu told Arsenal Digital. “I’m 100 per cent sure that everybody in the dressing room, the fans, myself and Mikel will enjoy having Willian in our side.
Pictures: See all the first pictures of Willian in an Arsenal shirt
“We tried to create a better balance in the squad but we know that takes time to balance the squad the way me and Mikel want to. To balance properly, we need to sell players, to buy players and that takes time, not just day and night.
Edu’s comments indicate that Arsenal are far from done in terms of business this summer. According to a report from The Athletic earlier in the week, Arteta has asked Edu for improved midfield options in number 6, 8 and 10. It’s good to see the club understand the Gunners currently are deficient in many midfield areas.
Edu on this summer and Willian signing: "It will take time but with Willian, we've started a big process. We've identified the needs in the squad and he's the one to start to rebalance the squad as we want to." #AFC pic.twitter.com/ueQCXgfEEg
— Fresh Arsenal (@Fresh_Arsenal) August 14, 2020
“It will take time but with Willian, we’ve started a big process. We’ve identified the needs in the squad and he’s the one to start to rebalance the squad as we want to.
“I am really excited and really happy to have a player like Willian because I’m convinced he’ll be the one to impact the team straight away. That, for me, is the most important one because I think the squad needed a player like Willian to help them, to be with the guys, helping in all senses. That’s why I’m so excited.”
The Atheltic are not the only outlet to suggest Arsenal will be busy this summer. The Guardian reported on Friday that following Willian’s arrival the club would be looking to sign a new defender, midfielder and forward. It could be a busy few weeks.