Arsenal are preparing to open contract talks with Kai Havertz as the club continues to secure the futures of key figures under Mikel Arteta.
The Germany international is understood to be the next major player in line for discussions after Arteta signed a new deal this week. Declan Rice is also expected to be involved in negotiations before Havertz, according to reports.
Transfer journalist Nicolò Schira said Arsenal were “ready to open talks to discuss Kai Havertz’s contract extension”, raising the possibility of a longer-term commitment from the forward.
Kai Havertz’s growing importance to Arsenal
Havertz joined Arsenal from Chelsea in the summer of 2023, with some supporters initially sceptical about the move. He soon established himself in Arteta’s system, however, and scored 13 Premier League goals during his first season at the club.
Fitness problems limited his involvement the following campaign, but he still ended it with 15 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions.
Havertz then finished strongly as Arsenal won the title last season, scoring the goal that secured the championship before also opening the scoring against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final.
The 27-year-old has made an encouraging start to the current campaign, scoring against Manchester City in the Community Shield and his former club Chelsea in the Premier League.
Arsenal may still look to add a different option in attack, but Havertz’s performances in important matches mean he remains central to Arteta’s plans. Fresh contract talks would give the club the opportunity to underline his importance.
