Mikel Arteta is not concerned that Arsenal haven’t hired a new sporting director before the January transfer window - and hinted that Edu’s successor could yet come from within the club.

Arsenal are on the hunt for a new sporting director after former midfielder Edu resigned from the position in a surprise move last month.

The Gunners have begun the search for his successor and the Brazilian’s assistant, Jason Ayto, is filling the position in the interim.

Arsenal have embarked on a rigorous recruitment process and a string of candidates have already been linked with the role, including Dan Ashworth after his recent shock departure from Manchester United.

They will not have anyone in place before the transfer window opens in January, although that does not worry Arteta.

“We have one, Jason Ayto is our interim sporting director,” said Arteta. “He has got the full capacity and support of the football club right now. He is doing really well with his team.

“The process is open, as you know. The club with the support of all of us will decide who is the best person to move us forward.

“I am sure there is progress, timing-wise it’s hard to understand. I’m not running the process so it’s more for the club to respond.”

Ayto has been touted as a candidate for the permanent role in addition to academy manager Per Mertesacker, with Arteta hinting that Arsenal may opt for an internal hire.

“When we are convinced that we have the right person who can work the right team, who do great work at the moment, someone who is going to take us to the next level,” said Arteta. “We might have him internally.”

Arteta confirmed earlier this week that Arsenal are ready to be active in the January transfer window if their injury issues do not ease.

The Spaniard, however, is not expecting lots of business, although the club will be open to market opportunities.

“I never expect January to be super busy but we have to wait and see where we are,” said Arteta.

“Some surprises can come, we are prepared for that. Some opportunities, too. We have to see. Hopefully the availability of the squad will be better in a few weeks. We have to wait and see.”