Kai Havertz is facing a spell on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury
Arsenal is assessing the severity of Kai Havertz’s knee injury, which may force the club to consider transfer plans before the window closes. Wednesday’s open training was avoided by the German forward, and doubts have been raised over a prolonged layoff.
How Bad Is Kai Havertz’s Knee Issue?
Havertz was absent from Arsenal’s open training session on Wednesday
In the last season, Havertz had nine goals and three assists, playing often in the domestic and continental competitions. His lack of him would present a challenge again on the depth of the squad, as Gyokeres was still finding his feet in football in England.
The striker missed 18 games the previous season because of a hamstring injury, with Mikel Merino replacing him and contributing seven goals. Arsenal would not want that to be repeated this season as they strive to have depth in their attacking unit this season.
What Does Mikel Arteta Have Without Havertz?
New signing Viktor Gyökeres is currently Arsenal’s only available recognised striker
At the moment, striker Viktor Gyokeres, who signed this summer, is the only mainstream striker in the Arteta set-up. Gabriel Jesus is out with an injury to the knee, and that is a lack of depth in the attacking position.
Arteta has highlighted the value of Havertz and further stated that, although the signing of Gyokeres, the German is not out of focus because of his versatility. Being able to play in any of the striker-winger-middeman roles has also proved to be key to the tactical versatility of Arsenal.
Can Arsenal Target Alexander Isak?
Alexander Isak is linked with a Newcastle exit amid Arsenal and Liverpool interest
One of the targets for Arsenal is Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak. The Swedish forward recently took to Instagram to express frustration at promises made to him by his club and hinted a move could be on the horizon.
Liverpool is also monitoring Isak and has already made an offer. But Sky Sports news reporter Keith Downie suggested Newcastle would let Isak go if there is a good backup and a bid of more than £135 million.
Are Other Strikers Being Considered?
Other alternatives beyond Isak may be available to Arsenal if funds or negotiations make the deal impossible. Yoane Wissa of Brentford has been mentioned, but his $80 million valuation may be a problem.
Paris Saint-Germain’s Goncalo Ramos and Porto’s adolescent forward Samu Aghehowa have also been mentioned as the names being considered in the broader market. England options may include Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson or Christopher Nkunku, but those involving rivals are not probable.
Will Outgoings Affect Arsenal’s Transfer Strategy?
The club had prepared to prioritize player exits before Havertz was injured. Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior are generating interest from Italian sides and Porto.
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Selling outgoings versus potential incomings will be the extent to which Arsenal can secure a second striker. The Havertz setback brought urgency to a window that was otherwise closing at the Emirates Stadium.
What Does It Mean for Arsenal’s Season Coming?
Mikel Arteta faces a striker shortage as Arsenal consider late moves in the transfer market
In the last season, Havertz had nine goals and three assists, playing often in the domestic and continental competitions. His absence would present a challenge again on the depth of the squad, as Gyokeres was still finding his feet in football in England.
Failing to sufficiently replace Havertz when he was injured last season was among the reasons Arsenal was vulnerable during their title push. Arteta will be hoping not to repeat the same this season.
Final Thoughts
Kai Havertz’s knee problem leaves Arsenal short of firepower, and the renewed spotlight is on the transfer window. If the Gunners pursue Alexander Isak, Yoane Wissa, or whoever, that depends on Havertz’s recovery period and when the money becomes available before the deadline.
