Arsenal remains in the driving seat for Kai Havertz despite a first rejected bid and Bayern Munich’s reported interest.
According to Fabrizio Romano’s update on Arsenal, the north London side club remain in the driving seat for Kai Havertz. With the player reportedly keen on the move, the Gunners continue discussions with Chelsea to find an agreement for the 24-year-old star.
Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar have taken an aggressive approach in the transfer market. They are eager to move swiftly for their priority targets. Arsenal feels there are deals within their means in the market and are making the presence felt with back-to-back bids for their top targets.
First, it was a bid for Declan Rice, which West Ham rejected. The north Londoners may have already submitted a new proposal of over £100 million. It could make the midfielder the costliest-ever British talent. Soon after, their surprise interest in Kai Havertz emerged, and a bid seemed imminent.
As things stand, Chelsea have rejected their opening offer for the 24-year-old star. The Blues are reportedly demanding at least £70 million for the German international. Arsenal believe they can do the deal for far less than the asking price.
Kai Havertz deal situation ⚪️🔴 #AFC
◉ Arsenal opening bid rejected but it’s not over at all;
◉ Talks Arsenal-Chelsea will continue, same as for Rice deal;
◉ FC Bayern, informed/interested but no bid yet as Arsenal leading;
◉ Chelsea always expected 2/3 clubs in the race. pic.twitter.com/7e4jesYiFE
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 16, 2023
Meanwhile, they are confident the player wants to move and have closed in on an agreement on personal terms with Havertz. Fans are eagerly waiting for the Gunners to make a second offer as talks between the two clubs continue behind the scenes.
There is growing confidence that Havertz will sign for Arsenal, and Fabrizio Romano gave a positive update on the situation. He feels the Gunners will keep pushing to get the deal done but also insisted Chelsea feels there could be two or three clubs in the race.
Romano also confirmed Bayern Munich’s interest in Havertz. The 24-year-old is a well-known player to Thomas Tuchel. The forward scored the winner in the Champions League final against Manchester City, so the pair do have fond memories.
However, many reports have firmly pointed at Arsenal in the driver’s seat in the chase for Havertz. Arsenal could go up to £55-60 million all-inclusive to seal the deal. There are doubts whether the Gunners would surpass that figure, although Arteta considers him a priority target.
The North Londoners might angle for another central midfielder once they conclude deals for Rice and Havertz. With Chelsea now favourites for Moises Caicedo, rumours are linking Arsenal to Southampton star Romeo Lavia.