Arsenal won’t be appointing Monaco recruitment chief Thiago Scuro as their new sporting director, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Brazilian was named alongside former Manchester United and Newcastle director Dan Ashworth, Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe, Atletico Madrid’s Andrea Berta and current interim appointee Jason Ayto as potential candidates. However, speaking to GiveMeSport, Romano said the club will hire someone else:

“Yes, it will happen soon. It’s about final discussions and then time to decide. I don’t think it will be Thiago Scuro, from what I’m told; there are more candidates.”

Scuro has been with Monaco since the summer of 2023, having arrived from Red Bull Bragantino. He was highly regarded within the Red Bull group, having worked in several different roles over the years.

Who is the favourite to replace Edu?

The Gunners have been without a permanent sporting director since Edu Gaspar left the Emirates back in November. Ayto was in charge of transfers during the January window but the failure to strengthen the squad, despite Arteta’s insistence, means his prospects have faded somewhat.

Many regard Olabe to be the likeliest option. He comes from San Sebastian, like Arteta, and it is believed the pair could strike up a good working relationship quickly.

Arsenal have also approached a former player

Tomas Rosicky has revealed that he was considered by the Gunners for the role. The Czech played for the London club for a decade and he is now Sparta Prague’s sporting director. Speaking about the interest from Arsenal, Rosicky said:

“I am honoured by the fact that I am even being considered by Arsenal’s management, but I can say that I don’t have any offer to go to Arsenal… I’m aware that I’m on their radar or I figure in their considerations in some capacity, but I haven’t received any offer.”

Based on Rosicky’s remarks, it doesn’t seem as if the 44-year-old has made the final shortlist.