In a report in today’s Sunday Times (£) about how things are changing behind the scenes at Arsenal, it’s revealed that Sven Mislintat has engaged a new team of scouts as the club shakes up its recruitment methods.

The German was brought in from Borussia Dortmund last month and given the title Head of Recruitment, a position which indicates a measure of responsibility and power.

And while Arsene Wenger was at pains to point out that the new man would be working with him when it comes to finding new players for the club, it was telling that the manager’s long-time chief scout, Steve Rowley, was moved aside.

The Times article talks about Mislintat briefing ‘members of his new network of scouts’, which is a very positive thing when it comes to the future.

It might well be too soon to see the effects during the transfer window which opens tomorrow, but perhaps in the summer we’ll reap the benefits of fresh faces and new contacts.

Arsenal changes in 2017

Jens Lehmann appointed first team coach – what a magic!

Per Mertesacker to take over the Arsenal Academy from next summer

Fitness guru Darren Burgess appointed

Sven Mislintat appointed Head of Recruitment

Raul Sanllehi brought in as Head of Football Relations (definitely not Director of Football)

Arsene Wenger got a haircut