Premier League boss appears to let slip he’s signed £150,000-a-week Chelsea player

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Mikel Arteta appears to have just let it slip that Arsenal have signed Kai Havertz from Chelsea.

The Spaniard gave an interview to MARCA where he discussed a range of topics, including his pursuit of the Chelsea No.29 – who is close to joining Arsenal in a £65m deal.

So, what did Mikel Arteta say about Kai Havertz? Let’s take a look…

What’s the story?

Well, the 41-year-old was first asked about Arsenal’s pursuit of Declan Rice.

Arteta declined to comment on that situation, stating that the England international is a West Ham player, and he does not like to talk about those at other clubs.

He said: “Sorry but I can’t speak about players who’re not at the club. I prefer not to comment.”

However – when asked about Havertz – the Arsenal boss was happy to speak at length about the Germany international.

Arteta continued: “Havertz? He’s talented, versatile player and only 24. Talent has price. He has already shown a lot, including a Champions League.”

Judging by his own response when asked about Rice, it could therefore be inferred that a deal to take Havertz to the Emirates Stadium is as good as done.

The 24-year-old was pencilled in for a medical at some point this weekend, with Sky Sports adding that Arsenal fans can expect an official announcement next week.

Arteta certainly seems confident that a deal is practically done, or else he probably would have refrained from speaking about Havertz like he did with the question about Rice.

Chelsea could regret sending Havertz to Arsenal

In our view, Havertz has the ability to become another Mohamed Salah or Kevin De Bruyne for Chelsea, both of whom were offloaded and then thrived for rival sides.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal actually plan to use the German as a No.8 next season, almost in an advanced central midfield role.

That is where Havertz shone at Bayer Leverkusen, so if Arteta finds a way to get the best out of him, it could come back to bite Chelsea.

Having said that, the Blues have given Havertz plenty of opportunities, whereas Salah and De Bruyne were hardly used at Stamford Bridge before leaving.

It simply hasn’t worked out for the £150,000-a-week man, and even if he does shine at Arsenal, Chelsea are getting good money for a player who has largely struggled in west London.