Kai Havertz could become the most recent player to cross the London divide as Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a deal for the German.
Arsenal are in talks with Chelsea for the forward as they target the attacker with the aim to add more strength in depth to their squad.
The Gunners have enquired about the player and have already made progress on personal terms with him as well. Havertz is said to be keen on a move across to North London.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta really appreciates Havertz and wants to sign him at Arsenal. He reportedly believes the German international would find the space to grow and improve as a player at The Emirates.
Arsenal will now have to agree a transfer fee with Chelsea and the Blues have reportedly set the asking price at £75 million for the German. Arsenal have no intention of paying that amount.
Fabrizio Romano, who broke this story, also said that Chelsea are willing to be flexible on their asking price and could lower it to allow the player to leave. Havertz’s desire to join Arsenal is also a factor that can affect the negotiations.
The deal is still at an early stage but these recent developments have severely escalated the saga.
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Real Madrid initially had concrete interest in Havertz as a potential replacement for the outgoing Karim Benzema but they have now moved their attention elsewhere. Madrid were not willing to pay even £50 million for Havertz and have reconsidered their position after reviewing Chelsea’s asking price.
Bayern Munich are also said to be interested in the player. Former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel appreciates the qualities of Havertz and would like to bring him to Munich. There have been no further reports regarding any official contact made by Bayern for the player.
The Athletic reported that Chelsea did not mind keeping Havertz and giving him another chance under new boss Mauricio Pochettino but the Blues need to raise money and also reduce the size of their squad and hence are willing to let go of the player for the right price.
Chelsea really are looking to have a midfield revolution as N’Golo Kante and Mateo Kovacic look to be on their way out, while Mason Mount and Kai Havertz could also be leaving the club potentially.
All four of these players were crucial first-team players under Lampard and Tuchel but are now headed for the exit door. Jorginho was also another crucial Chelsea midfielder who joined Arsenal in January.
