Arsenal are monitoring the fitness of Kai Havertz, who picked up a knee problem during Sunday’s win against Manchester United at Old Trafford. The German forward, introduced as a substitute in the match, missed an open training session at the Emirates on Wednesday as the club assessed the issue.
While early signs suggest the injury is not especially severe, there is growing concern he could be sidelined for a significant spell. Any absence would leave Viktor Gyökeres, signed this summer, as Mikel Arteta’s only recognised striker. Gabriel Jesus remains unavailable as he recovers from his own knee injury.
Arsenal had previously shown an interest in Eberechi Eze, though the Crystal Palace midfielder is nearing a move to Tottenham and was viewed more as an option across attacking midfield or the left flank than as a central striker.
Should Havertz’s absence be prolonged, the club could be forced back into the market for a traditional No 9. Last season, Mikel Merino deputised in attack during Havertz’s 18-match hamstring layoff, contributing seven goals between February and May.
Arteta has spoken of his hopes of pairing Havertz and Gyökeres, highlighting the versatility and attacking threat they bring: “Kai can play in different positions as well. I think it elevates the quality in the squad, the goal threat that we have in the team, the options that we have to change and provide oppositions with a lot of problems.”
Arsenal have already committed close to £200m on six new signings this summer but remain in the process of trimming the squad. Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko are attracting interest from Porto, while Serie A clubs have also enquired about Kiwior.
Whether the club turns to the transfer market again before the window closes may depend on the outcome of Havertz’s medical assessments in the coming days.
