14 June 2023 , 18:13
1205
0
Arsenal have emerged as shock contenders in the race to sign Chelsea star Kai Havertz and have already made contact with the Blues over a potential transfer.
The Germany international has failed to hit the heights many expected of him when he arrived in west London from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2020, but sealed his place in Chelsea folklore when he netted the winner against Manchester City in the 2021 Champions League final.
Despite this, it has come as a surprise to many that the Gunners are keen on landing Havertz's signature. Though Arsenal's pursuit is still in its infancy, the two clubs have been in communication regarding the summer switch.
Mikel Arteta's men are not the only side in the running, with Bayern Munich hoping to tempt Havertz into a return to the Bundesliga. They may also boast an advantage given they are currently coached by the midfielder's former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel.
From Chelsea's perspective, the Blues are hoping to extend his stay but are open to parting ways with the player providing their valutation of £70million is met.
Chelsea complete record-breaking Enzo Fernandez transfer after deadline day rush
According to reports, it is unlikely that Arsenal fork out that much for Havertz, especially considering Mauricio Pochettino needs to trim what is a bloated squad early in his Stamford Bridge reign.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Where would Havertz line-up for Arsenal? Comment below
Kai Havertz is a reported target for Arsenal ((Photo by Harriet Lander - Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images))Three years into life in the Premier League and many are still unsure over what Havertz's best position actually is, with many sections of the Arsenal fanbase questioning where the 24-year-old would fit into Arteta's system where he to join this summer.
However, Havertz has previously tried to clear up confusion surrounding his role and explained that he be deployed in a number of different positions and thrive.
Pressed for comment on the matter late last year, Havertz rolled his eyes before adding: "Everyone asks this question and after three years, everyone should know by now what I can do - that I'm flexible up front and I can play a lot of different positions.
"Of course, sometimes it's good to play in different positions and sometimes it's bad, but in general I'm an offensive player.
"I like to be in the box, I like to score goals, I like to arrive in the box often and I don't care if I'm there as a No.9 or a No.10. If I'm in the box, I'm there to score goals - and that's it."
Last season, Havertz spent most of his time operating as a striker for Chelsea but ended the campaign with a fairly underwhelming return of nine goals in 47 appearances across all competitions.