Kai Havertz changes Edu transfer plan as Arsenal learn new Ivan Toney asking price
Kai Havertz's recent goal-scoring form for Arsenal has reportedly led to a rethink in the Gunners' summer transfer strategy. Prior to the German international finding his scoring boots, it was widely speculated that Mikel Arteta was keen on bolstering his attacking options in the upcoming transfer window.
Arsenal were rumoured to be in the market for a striker who could provide competition and cover for current No. 9 Gabriel Jesus. However, this may no longer be the case.
The Gunners are still likely to bring in a new forward, but the profile of their target could now be different. With Havertz proving to be a reliable source of goals — netting five times in his last seven appearances — it's understood that Arteta might now be looking at a younger prospect who can be nurtured and developed over time.
This represents a significant shift from the type of strikers previously linked with a move to the Emirates, such as Brentford's Ivan Toney. The Bees have slapped a hefty price tag on their star man, making any potential move to Arsenal for the England international increasingly unlikely, reports the Mirror, while it has been freshly claimed on Thursday that Toney could be available for around £40million.
Sporting Lisbon's star striker, Viktor Gyokeres, is rumoured to be on Arteta's transfer radar. However, his impressive performance in the Portuguese league this season means he won't come cheap.
Given that he only joined Sporting last summer, it's unlikely the Liga NOS side will be pressured into selling him for a bargain anytime soon. Brighton's young forward, Evan Ferguson, is also attracting attention from several clubs, including Arsenal.
Arteta restructures midfield, Partey starts, Havertz out — Arsenal changes to beat
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