EXCLUSIVEEdu in talks with Arsenal's Premier League rivals over fronting their multi-club project after Gunners CONFIRMED Mail Sport exclusive that Brazilian sporting director is leaving his post

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Arsenal sporting director Edu is in talks over fronting Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis' multi-club operation after resigning from his role at the Emirates Stadium.

Mail Sport exclusively revealed just before 8am on Monday morning that Edu was leaving the north London club after five years with the Gunners - news that was officially confirmed later that afternoon.

And it is understood Edu has been lined up to take an over-arching position with Marinakis' portfolio of clubs that include Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave.

Marinakis is also looking to add another European club to his operation.

Discussions are understood to have been positive with the expectancy being that Edu takes up the role within the Greek businessman's multi-club model.

Brazilian Edu, 46, is set to leave his role as sporting director at Premier League club Arsenal

Edu has worked closely with manager Mikel Arteta at the Emirates Stadium since 2019

The Brazilian has overseen the overhaul in Arsenal's squad that has seen them become Premier League title challengers

Edu is understood to earn in the region of £2-3million a season at the Emirates but Marinakis is willing to offer the South American a pay package that would represent a huge increase on his terms with Arsenal.

However, it is the attraction of getting to grips with Marinakis' multi-club operation that is said to have tempted Edu into taking the bombshell decision to leave Arsenal.

The challenge of having a comprehensive role controlling numerous clubs is a prospect Edu has discussed in recent months and the opportunity to take his first steps into such a position was too tempting to turn down.

In a statement confirming his resignation, the club thanked their former midfielder for his role in their 'renewed football strategy' and 'driving the club forward'.

Edu said: 'This was an incredibly hard decision to make. Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club's history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they've given me.

'I've loved working with so many great colleagues across our men's, women's and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.

'Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.'

But Edu is now reportedly set to take a new job working for Evangelos Marinakis (pictured)

Co-chair Josh Kroenke added: 'We respect Edu's decision and thank him for his immense contribution and dedication to drive the club forward.

'Everyone at the club wishes him well. We are all so fond of him and the positive energy he brings to everything and everyone.

'Change and evolution is a part of our club. We remain focused on our strategy and winning major trophies. Our succession plan will reflect this continued ambition.'