The uncertainty surrounding Ivan Gazidis’ future at Arsenal has become a source of irritation for the Arsenal top brass, including manager Unai Emery, according to the Times.
The Arsenal chief executive has informed Arsenal that he has an offer to join AC Milan but the South African has not taken a final decision on whether to move to Italy.
Gazidis is believed to have been offered the managing director’s role in AC Milan’s set-up and a stake at the club, with the Rossoneri keen to get his expertise on board as soon as possible.
The 53-year-old has played a leading role in restructuring the Arsenal management over the last two years, which resulted in the club being prepared for Arsene Wenger’s departure at the end of last season.
He drove the search for Wenger’s replacement and appointed Emery to follow the legendary Frenchman, and also brought in head of recruitment Sven Mislintat, head of football relations Raul Sanllehi, director of high performance Darren Burgess and contract negotiator Huss Fahmy.
However, the uncertainty over whether Gazidis would continue has exasperated the Arsenal management, with Emery also believed to be seriously concerned.
Arsenal are likely to put Gazidis on a gardening if he decides to find the exit door despite the South African’s contract containing a 12-month notice period.
The Gunners want a quick resolution to the uncertainty, but Gazidis’ departure could come as a blow for Emery, who was appointed by the South African, and the duo were involved in daily meetings throughout the summer.
