Arsenal boss Arteta answers Rice question and gives reasons for Kai Havertz deal

Kieran Tierney could be on the move from Arsenal

Mikel Arteta has dropped a hint as to why he is pushing for Arsenal to sign Kai Havertz this summer, though refused to be drawn into speaking about West Ham captain Declan Rice. The duo are top targets at the Emirates Stadium this summer, with the Gunners plotting a rebuild around the two players.

Arsenal came close to recording a historic success in the Premier League last season, though their inexperience and lack of depth proved decisive during the closing stages of the campaign. Though the second-placed finish has not prompted Arteta to plan minor tweaks in his ranks to close the gap on Manchester City.

Instead, the Spaniard is looking to completely reshape his midfield around captain Martin Odegaard, as well as acquire further reinforcements in all departments. England international Rice has been identified as the top target at the Emirates Stadium, with a third bid being prepared for the West Ham skipper.

Asked by Marca about the links to the 24-year-old, Arteta refused to fuel speculation and replied: “I can’t talk about players who are not in the club. I prefer not to say anything.”

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However, the Spaniard was not so shy about tackling another elephant in the room when he was quizzed about the credentials of Havertz, providing four reasons why the Gunners appear to be keen to acquire the services of the ex-Bayer Leverkusen star this summer, saying “Talent comes at a price, and at Arsenal we are always interested in youngsters with experience.

“I repeat, I’m not talking about players from other clubs, but in the case of Kai, he has already shown a lot, including a Champions League. He is a talented player, versatile and only 24 years old.”

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Havertz spent the majority of his time at Chelsea playing as a striker, though it is unlikely that the German international will be deployed in that role in north London – especially considering how he struggled to lead the line at Stamford Bridge. The playmaker is therefore more likely to slot into midfield instead, having thrived in the Bundesliga when used as a No 10 behind a central striker.

There has also been speculation that Havertz could be deployed as an 8 by Arteta, replacing Granit Xhaka, meaning that Odegaard would not be forced into a different position given that he was one of the stars of the season when playing at the top of Arsenal’s midfield triangle.

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