Just when it seemed as if Arsenal's targets in this summer's transfer window were clear and obvious, a rather surprising link to Kai Havertz suddenly emerged.
And the interest, as football.london understands is genuine. Although despite reports that the 24-year-old has already agreed personal terms with the Gunners, getting a deal over the line may not be straightforward due to Chelsea's asking price and interest from Bayern Munich.
As things stand there is still a long way to go in terms of both clubs reaching an agreement on a fee for Havertz as the Blues want £70million, but with the Germany international now into the final two years of his contract at Stamford Bridge, Arsenal value him at a considerably lower fee.
It remains to be seen if the London rivals can meet down the middle to trash out a deal, but with the forward currently away on international duty until next Tuesday, it could be that there are no real significant developments until after Hansi Flick's side have faced Colombia in a friendly.
Now what has taken many by surprise with regard to Arsenal's interest in Havertz is that Mikel Arteta has plenty of options in attack when factoring Gabriel Jesus, Eddie Nketiah, Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard into the equation, not to mention Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson who is expected to sign a new contract.
However, with the Spaniard keen to sign a versatile forward this summer, it's clear as to why he is targeting the Chelsea star who has operated as the central striker, in the number 10 role and on the right-wing for the club since his £70million move from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2020.
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Having played in the Premier League for three full seasons, Havertz is far from an unknown quantity to Arsenal supporters. But for those not completely familiar with his game, what type of player would the north London outfit be getting if technical director Edu Gaspar is successful in negotiating a £50million deal?
Well, judging by the image above via WhoScored, Havertz's four main strengths based on the last two seasons are aerial duels, passing, holding onto the ball and defensive contribution. Meanwhile, his playing style is described as someone who likes to play short passes, likes to tackle and commits fouls often.
Judging by this description, Arsenal would be adding a different option in attack were they to sign Havertz as his aerial prowess is something Arteta's side can benefit from having lacked it towards the end of the 2022/23 campaign whilst his ability to make the ball stick up front allows him to combine effectively with the wide players.
But with offside awareness listed as the only weakness in his game as well as 'finishing' not mentioned among the lists of strengths, it's clear where Havertz has to improve in order for this potential transfer to be viewed as a success as he would need to break into double figures for goals across all competitions for only the second time since arriving in England.
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