Arsenal are preparing for Tuesday night’s crucial Champions League game against Bayer Leverkusen. After extending their lead at the top of the Premier League, the Gunners quickly turned their focus back to European matters. Mikel Arteta’s side will host Leverkusen in the second leg of their last-16 clash.
Kai Havertz scored Arsenal’s late equalizer from the penalty spot in the first leg and will fight to retain his position and distinction with his former employers. The Germany international has proven his worth to the Gunners this season when he was available and remains highly valued by Leverkusen, who sold him to Chelsea in 2020.
The 16-year-old became the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history at the weekend, but manager Arteta faces questions over his intentions with the young midfielder. Here, Express Sport looks at some of the top news surrounding the club.
Kai Havertz transfer given green light
Bayer Leverkusen’s managing director Simon Rolfes has made it clear that Havertz will receive a warm welcome upon his return to the club. The attacker appeared as a teenager at Leverkusen and made 150 appearances before leaving for around £72 million.
“I’m generally skeptical about bringing former players back, but I’ll make an exception for Kai[Havertz]and Florian Wirths,” Rolfes told Sport1 show Doppelpass.
He also admitted that Leverkusen would be ready to jump on Havertz if they were to be able to re-sign him.
Regarding Havertz, Rolfes added: “He spent 10 years in our youth system. We are in close contact with Kai and there will be a discussion if the situation arises.”
“But at the moment he is at a different stage of his career and feels very comfortable at Arsenal. He left the club to reach the top of world football.”
Mikel Arteta reveals plans for Max Dorman
Dowman etched his name into the record books after his goal against Everton. Arsenal’s youngster is attracting a lot of interest and could be given extra playing time as the Gunners play in four competitions.
The 16-year-old made his Champions League debut as a substitute against Slavia Prague in November. Nevertheless, Arteta urged caution after recent impressive performances.
Asked if Dauman could start in the club’s next game, Arsenal’s head coach said: “Let’s get back to reality today and enjoy the moment, because it was intense and worthwhile. Tomorrow we’ll see.”
