Arsenal remain locked in talks with Chelsea over the potential signing of Kai Havertz, football.london understands. A first bid of £55 million has been rejected but there is optimism that the two clubs will come to an agreement on a fee.
The German international’s link to the club has sparked significant debate about where he might fit into the Arsenal team. Whether he’d occupy a position in midfield, supporting the attack or in rotation with centre-forward Gabriel Jesus.
In an interview with Marca in November of 2019, prior to his switch to the Premier League, the then 20-year-old was clear on his role in the Bayer Leverkusen side. He said: "I would say the No.8 position, inside right.
"I'm not a classic No.10, but I like to have the ball at my feet, simply enjoying myself on the pitch. I've played in many other positions, but I prefer to play in the centre, where I have more of the ball."
Although significant time has passed since then, there could be room for Havertz in the role alongside Martin Odegaard, but on the opposite side. With the Gunners’ interest in Declan Rice, perhaps England international could anchor a midfield three with Odegaard and Havertz ahead of him; quite the attacking line-up.
However, despite this preference of role, Arsenal will not be able to fulfil his dream of the number ten shirt. Speaking in 2019 he said: “My dream will always be to wear the No.10 one day at my club.”
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Currently, the number 29 at Chelsea having been blocked to the pathway of ten Christian Pulisic, he will see the number again allude him should he switch to Arsenal. Emile Smith Rowe is the current shirt bearer, but the England international’s uncertain future at Arsenal could see the door open the Havertz in the future.
Havertz might have a hand in stopping Smith Rowe back into the team himself. Arteta has used Smith Rowe in an attacking midfield role with Odegaard before, the position his new teammate might indeed occupy.
Havertz spoke about his idols and interestingly they’re all of an attacking nature. But importantly, they are ball-playing figures in their sides and Havertz shares that ability in having great skill in possession.
"There are many players that inspired me like Kaka, Zidane, Ronaldinho..." he said. "They've always been my idols. Between the Spanish players, my favourite is Andres Iniesta. He's outstanding on the ball. Unique. I like him the most.
"Toni Kroos is a great player, I model myself on him a lot. His journey has been great. I have a lot of respect for him. His passing ability and his combination play is on another level.
"In [Germany] training, every pass from him is perfect. It doesn't matter how they give it to him."
He’s spoken too about Mesut Ozil before. The last German player to have a key role in the Arsenal team but one who left in controversial circumstances; Havertz will hope his Arsenal career, should it materialise, will be far more positive.
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