Barcelona Manager Xavi has confirmed the club’s keen interest in two Arsenal players, believing they align well with Barcelona’s style of play and expressing readiness to make a significant offer for their services.
Reportedly, the players in question are Jorginho and Kai Havertz. Jorginho, an Italian international, has seen reduced playing time at Arsenal after the arrival of Declan Rice. Despite this, both the player and his agent have firmly stated that a departure from Arsenal is not currently being considered. His contract runs until 2024, with an option for an additional year.
On the other hand, Kai Havertz, a high-profile transfer from Chelsea to Arsenal, has faced challenges in adapting to his new team. Despite this, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence in the German playmaker, emphasizing the need to support and guide him to unleash his talent fully. Arteta intends to provide Havertz with the necessary tools, confidence, and playing time to improve his performance.
Barcelona’s interest in these players is based on their belief that the upcoming January transfer window might offer opportunities to acquire players like Jorginho and Havertz at a potentially lower price. This strategy is reminiscent of their previous summer acquisitions of Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on loan, where they secured ‘star signings’ at a favorable cost.
In terms of financials, Arsenal acquired Jorginho from Chelsea for €11.3m (initially valued at €35m, now €25m) and Havertz for €75m (valued at €55m then and now). Barcelona is reportedly ready to make a substantial offer to bring these players to the Camp Nou.
The situation is delicate for Arsenal, as they value both players and see them as integral to their plans. However, Barcelona’s interest and the allure of playing for a prestigious club like Barcelona might influence the players’ decisions. The January transfer window could prove to be crucial in determining the future of these two talents and their potential move to the La Liga giants.
