Arsenal have three transfer solutions to Kai Havertz injury as Andrea Berta reacts to nightmare

The news that Kai Havertz is set for a spell on the sidelines comes as a real hammer blow for Arsenal, who had just got themselves into a position of having two options for every role in their team. Having suffered the most individual issues last season of any club with 27 - that also included a hamstring injury to Havertz that required surgery - it is painful reading.

Although we are yet to get full clarity on the Germans’ return date, which will likely be provided by Mikel Arteta in some form in his press conference on Friday, the club are understood to be more active in the market. There was always an openness to more business but it was predicated on outgoings to help free up funds and space within UEFA’s Financial Fair Play restrictions which now sporting director Andrea Berta is working hard to navigate.

With that in mind, football.londonlooks at a few options that the club could consider to strengthen their attacking line and help cover the loss of Havertz. It is worth bearing in mind that one of the attractive aspects of Viktor Gyokeres’ arrival is his attendance (touch wood), which will factor into the type of forward the club goes for and the expected mid-season return of Gabriel Jesus from his own knee injury.

Eberechi Eze

Although it had seemed that Arsenal were no longer in the race to sign Eberechi Eze, and despite the fact that the player is not a striker, the loss of Havertz also means the loss of depth beyond just the centre-forward role. Having already had discussions surrounding a deal for the Crystal Palace player, it could be that the Gunners now reinvigorate their push to sign him.

Eze can operate in several roles, including attacking midfield, left eight, wide left playmaker and a second striker role. His arrival would push the likes of Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino into more deputy striker positions.

Ademola Lookman

Again, a player who might become attractive due to their versatility is Ademola Lookman. football.london understands the player has been offered to several Premier League clubs already this summer as he seeks a move away from Atalanta with Inter Milan failing to meet their valuation after a €45million (£38million) bid was rejected.

Arsenal have looked at potential left-wing options, so they will already be familiar with Lookman. His ability to play through the middle in the wake of the Havertz news furthers his appeal. However, his time in the Premier League with Everton and Fulham was not too successful, which has led to many having doubts about the Nigerian international, but his rise in Serie A cannot be denied.

Rodrygo

A dream option for many, the Real Madrid winger continues not to be among Xabi Alonso's plans. With Manchester City seemingly keener to keep hold of Savinho, they are out of the race for now. The problem Arsenal have is the price tag, which many believe is around €90million (£77.8million).

Already wary of UEFA’s Financial Fair Play restrictions, sales would almost certainly be needed to constitute a permanent move unless they can find some alternative agreement or a potential loan with an option instead. Rodrygo can play across the front three and has been on the club’s radar this summer as a potential market opportunity.

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