Chelsea forward Kai Havertz is “very close” to joining Arsenal, according to Sky Sport Italia journalist Angelo Mangiante.

Multiple sources have now confirmed that the Gunners are interested in signing the German international, with some even claiming personal terms have been agreed with the player, who is earning £250,000 a week. Mangiante goes further, though, and says a deal could be finalised very soon:

Kai Havertz is very close to Arsenal. A player of great class who left his mark with his decisive goals in the trophies won with #Chelsea & Tuchel. #TopClass #CFC pic.twitter.com/qxkvv2Apbh

— Angelo Mangiante (@angelomangiante) June 15, 2023

It is hard to tell whether Mangiante actually has inside information about the move or whether he is just parroting claims that others are making.

The main stumbling block to the deal going ahead is expected to be the transfer fee, with Chelsea demanding in excess of £70m for the player.

Could a compromise on the fee be found?

Reports do suggest that the Blues may well lower their asking price for Havertz before the end of the month, mainly because they need to balance their books to stay in line with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Whether they reduce their demands to an amount that Arsenal are prepared to pay, we shall have to wait and see.

Are their rivals for Havertz’s signature?

Bayern Munich are believed to be keen on the 24-year-old, with his former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel reportedly interested in being reunited with the player, but there are no plans to make a formal offer currently.

Real Madrid were also credited with an interest in Havertz but it is believed that the Spanish club were only willing to shell out around £50m for the forward. They have subsequently withdrawn from the race after being told about his price tag.

At the moment, it does appear as if Arsenal have a pretty clear run to secure the German’s services.