Journalist James McNicholas has now stated that the recent form of one Arsenal star may have altered Mikel Arteta’s transfer plans.
Arsenal are set for a busy summer transfer window.
There will be plenty of outgoings from the Emirates Stadium at the end of this season. Thirteen Arsenal players have been earmarked for a potential departure.
Sporting director Edu has also suggested that Arsenal already have their own targets lined up.
There has been plenty of debate this season about whether or not the Gunners ought to have a striker at the top of their summer shopping list.
Mikel Arteta does not currently have an elite-level goalscorer in his squad.
The argument for Arsenal needing a new striker this summer
Gabriel Jesus has endured a torrid campaign in front of goal, having only netted four times in the Premier League.
Jesus has made a vow to change his game in an effort to become more prolific, but in truth he is never going to be a goal machine. Meanwhile, Eddie Nketiah has fallen out of favour at the Emirates Stadium.
However, in the second half of the campaign, Kai Havertz has emerged as a reliable option to lead the line for the Gunners. The German is not always the most clinical finisher, but has plenty of qualities that make him an ideal fit for Arteta’s setup. With his physical prowess, aerial ability, and intelligent movement he is an effective focal point for the likes of Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard, and Martin Odegaard to work around.
The 24-year-old was once again excellent in the North London derby victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Havertz became the first Arsenal player since Patrick Vieira in 2004 to register a first half goal and assist away from home against the Gunners’ bitter local rivals.
With Havertz now shining as a striker for Arsenal, speculation has arisen as to whether the club will still invest heavily in that position the summer.
Has Kai Havertz changed Arsenal transfer plans?
Arsenal have been linked with a host of strikers, but the former Chelsea man’s form may well have prompted Arteta to view him as the long-term solution in that part of the pitch.
James McNicholas certainly believes that that could prove to be the case. Speaking on the Arsecast Extra podcast, the reporter said “I think he’s already changed the thinking a little bit at Arsenal, based on what I’ve been hearing…I think that it was sort of assumed by many, and felt by many at Arsenal, that a striker was a likelihood in the next transfer window.
“I think that Havertz’s form has given some pause for thought there…I’m not saying Arsenal won’t buy a striker, but I don’t think we can take it as a given anymore.”
For now, full focus at Arsenal will be fixed on taking maximum points from their remaining Premier League fixtures to give them a chance of being crowned champions. Havertz will be needed to keep delivering in the title race as the Gunners’ No. 9.