Arsenal Scramble for Havertz Cover as Injury Blow Prompts Transfer Market Moves
Arsenal may be forced into late-window action following another injury setback for Kai Havertz. With the German midfielder sidelined by a knee issue, Mikel Arteta’s side is reportedly exploring a shortlist of attacking reinforcements — including Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and former Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez — to help fill the creative void.
Havertz Injury Adds to Arsenal’s Midfield Concerns
Kai Havertz, a central figure in Arsenal’s attacking setup, is set to miss more time after suffering a knee injury, just months after a hamstring tear disrupted his end to last season. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, the 26-year-old was absent from a public training session at the Emirates, with early assessments offering no clear timeline for his return.
The setback has forced Arsenal into action, as the club begins to explore transfer options to strengthen its attacking depth ahead of the September 1 deadline.
Morgan Rogers Emerges as Key Target
One of the standout names on Arsenal’s radar is Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers. The 21-year-old winger has impressed since arriving at Villa Park, and his ability to operate across multiple attacking positions makes him a particularly attractive option for Mikel Arteta’s system.
Arsenal have reportedly been tracking Rogers for some time as a potential challenger to Gabriel Martinelli on the left flank. Now, with Havertz out, Rogers’ versatility could prove vital. However, Aston Villa are said to be reluctant to sell, and any deal before the window closes is expected to be a tough negotiation.
Julian Alvarez Joins the List, but Deal Looks Unlikely
Another intriguing name linked to Arsenal is Julian Alvarez, currently with Atlético Madrid following his exit from Manchester City. The Argentine forward would offer technical flair and goal-scoring instinct, but prying him away from his new club may be a long shot, with no indications that Atlético are open to selling.
Still, Arsenal’s interest in Alvarez signals the ambition to secure a high-caliber replacement who can immediately impact the squad.
Arsenal Also Reignite Interest in Nicolas Jackson and Ollie Watkins
TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal are also considering Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. Despite being valued at £60 million, the Senegalese international is reportedly open to a move, having slipped down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge behind new arrivals Joao Pedro and Liam Delap. Newcastle United are also monitoring Jackson as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak.
Additionally, Ollie Watkins remains on Arsenal’s shortlist. The Gunners had a bid rejected for the England striker in the January window, and although Aston Villa have no intention of letting him go, the North London club is yet to rule out a late push for the 29-year-old.
What’s Next for the Gunners?
With the clock ticking toward the end of the summer transfer window, Arsenal’s recruitment team is actively weighing its options. Replacing a player of Havertz’s influence is no small task, but the Gunners seem determined to ensure squad depth and versatility ahead of a challenging 2025–26 campaign.
While Villa’s Rogers and Watkins, Chelsea’s Jackson, and Atlético’s Alvarez are all in the frame, final decisions will hinge on availability, price tags, and Arsenal’s willingness to spend big.
