The Brazilian Football Confederation have confirmed Arsenal’s approach for Edu but denied a deal has been agreed to become the club’s new technical director.
Reports from Brazil yesterday suggested the former Gunners midfielder would move to north London in July after this summer’s Copa America tournament.
Edu is expected to rejoin his former club with negotiations at an advanced stage – talks are believed to have got as far as discussing Arsenal’s transfer targets – but the CBF warned the 40-year-old remains under contract and sought to distance themselves from speculation over his position.
“Co-ordinator Edu Gaspar has a current contract with the CBF until the end of the Qatar World Cup in 2022,” read a CBF statement.
“Edu Gaspar informed the CBF that he received an offer from an English club but explained at the moment that he is solely focused on Brazil’s matches at the Copa America.
“The CBF, therefore, denies any speculation around names for the position of co-ordinator. We’re clear about the qualities required for this position which brings together an administrative capacity and experience on the field.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal were making last-minute checks on Laurent Koscielny before heading to Spain for their Europa League semi-final, second leg against Valencia.
The 33-year-old was an unused substitute in Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Brighton as a precaution with the club mindful of monitoring his longstanding Achilles issues but he was expected to make the trip ahead of a training session in the Mestalla this evening.
There were no fresh injury concerns from last weekend.
