Arsenal in Talks With Napoli Talent Scout
Maurizio Micheli, widely regarded as one of Italy’s top talent spotters, is in advanced negotiations to join Arsenal.
The 57-year-old recruitment specialist is credited with discovering stars such as Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Marek Hamsik and Kim Min-jae during two spells at SSC Napoli. His work helped the club win the Serie A title in 2023, and later Kvaratskhelia’s £59-million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain underlined Micheli’s eye for elite potential.
New sporting director Andrea Berta, formerly of Atletico Madrid, has identified Micheli as a key addition as he reshapes Arsenal’s backroom structure following Edu’s departure. Berta has already overseen a £255 million summer rebuild, bringing in Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi and Eberechi Eze among others, while extending key player contracts.
Micheli’s appointment follows several internal promotions, including James Ellis to Technical Director and Mark Curtis to Head of Football Intelligence. His recruitment philosophy, described by former colleague Stefano Caira as that of a “human algorithm”, is expected to further refine the Gunners’ data-driven approach.
Mikel Arteta’s side is at the top of the English Premier League rankings, and recent moves demonstrate a commitment to sustaining that status while ensuring long-term squad development.
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