Arsenal is actively engaged in negotiations with West Ham and Chelsea for the potential signings of Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, respectively. Although there is still a valuation gap to bridge in both deals, the discussions have been described as positive and productive.
Earlier this week, Arsenal made an initial offer of £80 million plus add-ons for Declan Rice, which was promptly rejected by West Ham. However, there is a growing belief that Rice has an interest in joining Arsenal. Manchester City is also monitoring the situation and could provide competition for the England midfielder’s signature. Manchester United is reportedly interested as well but may only make a bid if new owners are in place.
West Ham is holding out for a fee of £120 million for their captain, but they could be open to accepting a lower offer that includes player exchanges.
In their pursuit of Kai Havertz, Arsenal could face further complications with interest from Bayern Munich. The German champions have reportedly added Havertz to their transfer shortlist for the summer.
Previous reports indicated that Arsenal had set their sights on Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, potentially giving Chelsea a clear path to pursue Moises Caicedo. However, it has been revealed that Arsenal is keeping an eye on the Brighton midfielder as well.
Despite the ongoing discussions regarding Rice and Havertz, Arsenal’s priority remains securing these two talented players for their squad.
Arsenal’s 2023/24 Premier League Fixtures Revealed
Arsenal will kick off their 2023/24 Premier League season with a home match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday, August 12. This will be followed by two London derbies against Crystal Palace and Fulham before hosting Manchester United in their first encounter with a ‘Big Six’ rival early in September.
The eagerly anticipated north London derby will take place at the Emirates Stadium on September 23, with the return fixture scheduled for April 27, near the end of the campaign.
Mikel Arteta’s team will face Manchester City, last season’s title rivals and treble winners, within the first eight games of the season, with a home match on October 7 and an away fixture at the Etihad on March 30.
Just before the clash with Manchester City, Arsenal will have consecutive London derbies against Brentford and Chelsea. The schedule following the City match includes challenging matches against Brighton and Aston Villa.
The Gunners will conclude their season with a home game against Everton on May 19, preceded by their final away fixture against Manchester United. It promises to be an exciting and competitive season for Arsenal as they strive to make their mark in the Premier League.
