Chelsea forward Kai Havertz has reportedly indicated that he would be ready to accept a transfer to Arsenal if a fee can be agreed.
Havertz has just reached the end of his third season at Stamford Bridge, taking his tally to 32 goals and 15 assists from his 139 appearances in all competitions.
With the majority of those outings, particularly in the last campaign, coming from down the centre of the attack, the perception is that the Germany international has failed to justify a transfer fee which could eventually reach £71m.
However, since the end of the season, it has become apparent that the 24-year-old could bring his time with the West Londoners to an end.
Real Madrid initially expressed an interest in Havertz, only to refuse to meet Chelsea's valuation which is somewhere in the region of the figure paid under previous ownership in 2020.
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Arsenal soon emerged as rivals for his signature, citing the same stance as Real, yet it appears that the Gunners could pull off the acquisition of the versatile frontman over the coming weeks.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Havertz has 'given the green light' for Arsenal to present him with a contract offer.
Romano adds that there will be no issues with regards to personal terms with both the 2022-23 Premier League runners-up and the player interested in completing a deal.
Much will depend on the reaction of Chelsea's hierarchy, it being claimed that they currently have Havertz's asking price set at £75m.
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Nevertheless, a number of factors mean that Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital will eventually have to soften their stances on players, most notably in order to meet all FFP regulations with the Premier League.
Havertz is also entering the final two years on his contract and appears unlikely to entertain a renewal, while Chelsea are keen to deliver signings for newly-appointed head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
As well as a new striker, Chelsea are seemingly pressing ahead with their interest in Brighton & Hove Albion's Moises Caicedo, who is allegedly keen on linking up with the club.
The Seagulls may hold out for a fee in the region of £80m, despite Roberto de Zerbi having a pact with the Ecuador international regarding an exit from the Amex Stadium this summer.
Darren Plant
