Kai Havertz
Image credit: Getty Images
Kai Havertz has issued a defiant response as Arsenal continue their pursuit of a new striker this summer, signalling his intent to fight for his place in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
The 25-year-old German forward is expected to face increased competition next season, with Arsenal actively exploring deals for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. Despite the club’s slow start to the transfer window, due to strategic planning and accounting considerations, movement is expected in the coming weeks.
Havertz, who missed three months through injury during the 2023/24 season, made a timely return to the team in May. He is now preparing for Arsenal’s pre-season tour of Asia, which includes fixtures in Hong Kong and Singapore next month. By then, the club hopes to have secured another centre-forward.
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Sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly laying the groundwork for multiple striker deals before choosing which to pursue, explaining Arsenal’s measured approach early in the window. Meanwhile, rivals across Europe have already begun strengthening, taking advantage of FIFA’s restructured summer calendar.
Arsenal - Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko are pursuing a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko (Image credit: Getty Images)
Havertz enjoyed a productive campaign last season, finishing as Arsenal’s joint-top scorer in the Premier League with nine goals and 15 in all competitions. His contributions were vital in a season that saw Arsenal reach the semi-finals of both the Champions League and Carabao Cup but ultimately fall short in the league title race and FA Cup.
With pressure mounting on Arteta to deliver silverware next season, Arsenal are keen to bolster their attack. Šeško is valued at over £92 million following a contract extension with Leipzig, which includes a £55 million release clause. Gyökeres, by contrast, is expected to cost around £60 million, though concerns remain over his age and limited experience in top European leagues.
Despite the looming arrival of a new striker, Havertz is not backing down. In a recent Instagram post, he shared images of himself in the gym lifting weights, accompanied by the caption “Loading.” The post is widely seen as a statement of intent ahead of the new season, as Havertz works to improve his physicality and maintain his place as Arsenal’s lead forward.
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Initially signed as an attacking midfielder, Havertz has adapted to a more advanced role under Arteta, similar to his time at Chelsea under Thomas Tuchel and Frank Lampard. His blend of aerial prowess, movement, and link-up play has made him a key figure in Arsenal’s attack, despite criticism for occasional missed chances.
With Gabriel Jesus also struggling for fitness last season, Arsenal’s lack of depth up front proved costly. However, Havertz will be aiming to take his game to new heights and prove he remains a vital asset—regardless of who arrives this summer.
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