Chelsea’s stance on Kai Havertz is being put under scrutiny as sources have revealed that the player has no intentions of signing a new contract with the club. Arsenal, eyeing a potential move for Havertz, have been hesitant to meet Chelsea’s £70 million asking price for the 24-year-old German midfielder.
As reported by ESPN, Havertz is open to joining Arsenal, and the Gunners do not consider his current wage at Chelsea, estimated at £220,000 per week, as a hindrance to completing the transfer. While Arsenal had their initial offer rejected, they are expected to return with an improved bid. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.
There is a possibility that Bayern Munich might enter the race for Havertz, having previously expressed interest in the player. Chelsea will hope that Bayern’s involvement would help drive up the price, but regardless, Havertz has reportedly conveyed to the club that he has no desire to extend his contract, which is set to expire in 2025.
During discussions, Arsenal have indicated that they see Havertz as a versatile asset who can operate as a No. 10 or No. 8 and is capable of playing in various attacking positions within a fluid forward line in a 4-3-3 system. This versatility is a significant factor that attracts Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who has been personally involved in the negotiations.
Chelsea’s asking price for Havertz has raised eyebrows among sources, especially considering they acquired him for £71 million in September 2020. Although Havertz scored the winning goal in the 2021 Champions League final, he has struggled to find consistency in his performances, tallying 32 goals in 139 games across all competitions.
In addition to the pressure of Havertz’s situation, Chelsea is also facing the need to raise funds before June 30 to offset the financial losses incurred from their significant spending, amounting to around £600 million on players, despite failing to secure any European qualification for the upcoming season.
Interestingly, Havertz’s valuation matches the price tag Chelsea has placed on Mason Mount, who has attracted interest from Manchester United. The London club rejected a £40 million bid from United last week.
Meanwhile, a delegation from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund has arrived in London, with plans to meet key figures at Chelsea regarding potential transfers. Sources have disclosed that Al Nassr chief executive Ahmed Al Ghamdi is part of the delegation, aiming to finalize a deal for winger Hakim Ziyech.
Although personal terms have been agreed upon, the clubs are yet to settle on a transfer fee. The PIF delegation is also engaged in negotiations for goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who may join Al Ahli, and defender Kalidou Koulibaly, who has attracted interest from Al Hilal. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports.
