Arsenal have now set their stance on how much Kai Havertz could earn in any transfer from Chelsea this summer. But the Blues have also rejected the Gunners’ opening bid.
That is according to The Telegraph, which reports that Chelsea have turned down Arsenal’s first bid for Havertz. The Stamford Bridge natives felt the Emirates Stadium outfit’s opening offer was too insufficient. But the Blues are willing to sell the Germany star to the Gunners.
Chelsea value Havertz at £70m but are already facing a dilemma over their ability to ask for the full amount. The 24-year-old cost the west Londoners £71m, including add-ons, to sign from Bayer Leverkusen in September 2020. But he only has two years left on his contract.
How much are Arsenal willing to pay Kai Havertz?
Havertz has so far not indicated a desire to sign a new contract at Chelsea, where he earns £250k-a-week. So, Stamford Bridge chiefs are prepared to let him leave amid interest from north London. Arsenal are also willing to match Havertz’s Chelsea wage to seal his transfer.
Given Arsenal’s willingness to pay Havertz a £250k-a-week salary, personal terms are likely to be a formality. But Gunners sporting director Edu must find an agreement with Chelsea over the fee. The Times also reported this week that the Blues rejected in excess of £55m.
How much do Chelsea want for Kai Havertz’s transfer?
Like The Telegraph, The Times also reports Chelsea have a £70m asking price for Havertz’s transfer to Arsenal. It also suggests that personal terms are not expected to be an issue as the Gunners advance their interest. But the clubs are about £15m apart in their valuations.
Havertz has amassed 139 appearances for Chelsea since leaving Bayer Leverkusen in 2020 under Frank Lampard. He has also offered 32 goals and 15 assists with the Blues across all competitions so far. His haul even includes the winner in the 2021 Champions League final.
UEFA affairs have often seen Havertz produce his best football for Chelsea, including during the 2022/23 term. Blues hero Joe Cole praised the German on BT Sport 1 (7/3/2023, 22:15) for delivering an ‘absolutely outstanding’ display as Chelsea edged Borussia Dortmund 2-0.
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