It was a surprise to see Arsenal linked with Kai Havertz considering the depth they have in advanced areas.
For Arteta, it’s looking like a serious summer of addressing key issues within his squad as he looks to push for the title next season once again, as well as becoming competitive within the Champions League.
With continued links to Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo, it’s incredibly obvious that the midfield is a priority as both Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey faded as the season wore on. With both players in their peak years at age 30, it’s easy to see why both Rice and Caicedo are targets.
However, the link to sign Kai Havertz from Chelsea seems a surprise considering the quality that has been brought into the club over the last couple of years.
Leo Trossard, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka make up the main front-four selection, with Emile Smith-Rowe, Eddie Nketiah and Fabio Viera providing the depth.
So why Kai Havertz? A player who has scored double figures just once in his time at Stamford Bridge.
Do Arsenal need Kai Havertz?
The Germany international arrived at Chelsea in 2020 and has 32 goals and 11 assists in 139 games which isn’t particularly inspiring when considering the potential transfer outlay.
However, digging deeper, his characteristics might be perfect for what Arsenal need in the final third. Whilst Havertz hasn’t been prolific, his ability to play as a number nine, particularly one that enjoys having their back to goal could allow Arsenal greater control and attacking threats within a game.
This was recently highlighted by Thierry Henry, who told said on CBS Sports: “He reminds me sometimes, a little, of Robin [van Persie] back to goal the way he can hold the ball. Robin van Persie was very good with his left foot, the touch was always immaculate he tried to bring people along.
“This is why out of the guys that used to be wingers or number ten he plays as a nine because with his back to goal he can hold the ball well. Now he needs to make sure he can transform that into more goals because you can play off him.”
At 24 years old, there’s time for Havertz to continue developing and with Chelsea needing to offload players for various reasons, Havertz could turn out to be a smart addition to Arteta’s squad.
Judging his goals and creativity perhaps isn’t fair when considering his potential role in Arsenal’s approach play.
