Arsenal Push to Sign Kai Havertz from Chelsea
Arsenal are pushing to sign Chelsea forward Kai Havertz this summer, with Mikel Arteta playing a key role in convincing the Germany international to join the Gunners. Reports also suggest that Bayern Munich have not submitted an offer for the 24-year-old despite their interest.
Arsenal Offer Rejected by Chelsea
Arsenal have already had an offer for Havertz rejected by Chelsea last week but the Gunners are expected to submit a second bid imminently. Havertz has made it clear to Chelsea that he will not extend his contract, which expires in 2025, and is now ‘open’ to joining Arsenal.
Arteta’s Role in Negotiations
According to ESPN, Arteta has already played a pivotal role in negotiations, with Havertz told that he can play in several positions for Arsenal, including as a No.8, a No.10, the two wide attacking positions and in a central striker role. It’s claimed that Havertz’s versatility is seen as a ‘big attraction’ for Arteta, who guided Arsenal to a second-placed finish in the Premier League last season.
Chelsea Demanding £70 Million Transfer Fee
Chelsea are demanding a £70 million transfer fee for Havertz – a price which Arsenal are currently unwilling to match. The 24-year-old was initially signed in a £75.8m (€85m) deal from Bayer Leverkusen in 2020. Arsenal, who are also pushing to sign West Ham captain Declan Rice, are keen for Chelsea to lower their valuation, and the club could be under pressure to do so before the end of the month in order to balance their finances having spent over £600m on new signings over the past year.
Arsenal Ready to Meet Havertz’s Salary Demands
The Gunners also see no obstacles in their negotiations with Havertz as they are ready to meet his £220,000-a-week salary which he currently earns at Chelsea. With Arteta playing a key role in negotiations, Arsenal will be hoping that they can convince Chelsea to lower their valuation of Havertz and secure his signature this summer.