Nottingham Forest owner makes huge decision ahead of Arsenal as Edu role confirmed

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is reportedly looking to expand his football empire by acquiring another club, this time in Brazil. This comes after Edu's shock departure from Arsenal earlier this month, with the opportunity to work within a multi-club set-up being a key factor in his decision.

Marinakis, who also owns Europa Conference League winners Olympiacos and Portuguese outfit Rio Ave, is said to be in talks to buy Brazilian side Vasco da Gama, according to The Telegraph. The Greek businessman's potential new acquisition would add to Edu's responsibilities once his move is finalised.

Vasco da Gama, currently ninth in the Brazilian Serie A, was previously owned by 777 partners before financial difficulties led to US insurance giant A-Cap taking control. The club already boasts former Premier League players Philippe Coutinho, on loan from Aston Villa, and ex-West Ham playmaker Dimitri Payet, reports the Mirror.

Vasco da Gama isn't the only club on Marinakis' radar, with long-standing rumours linking him to Italian side Monza. If both deals materialise, it would mean former Arsenal chief Edu would play a significant role in five different clubs. Interestingly, Nottingham Forest travel to Emirates Stadium on Saturday to take on the Gunners, with Mikel Arteta knowing the match is a must-win.

Following the confirmation of Edu's departure from Arsenal, he expressed: "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."

He added: "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."

Meanwhile, Arsenal continue their search for Edu's successor at the Emirates Stadium, with reports suggesting Paris Saint-Germain chief Luis Campos as a potential candidate, while Gilberto Silva hasn't dismissed the possibility of a move.

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