Arsenal Football Club is determined to bridge the gap with their rivals, Manchester City, by making significant signings in the summer of 2023.
With a focus on bolstering their squad, the Gunners have secured the services of three talented rookies: Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber. These high-profile acquisitions aim to elevate Arsenal’s performance and introduce fresh dynamics to their gameplay.
Kai Havertz: Versatility and Quality in Midfield and Attack
Arsenal kick-started their summer signings by announcing the arrival of German star Kai Havertz. Known for his impressive ball control, passing ability, and aerial prowess, Havertz excels in both midfield and striker positions.
His familiarity with a short-passing style of play makes him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s ambitions as the defending Premier League runners-up.
Coach Mikel Arteta praises Havertz’s qualities, stating that he brings top-quality play, versatility, and intelligence to the team. Havertz is expected to feature prominently in the left-sided midfield position within Arsenal’s 4-3-3 formation, providing an upgrade over Granit Xhaka, who is set to depart for Germany. Additionally, Havertz can also serve as a replacement for Gabriel Jesus when needed as a striker.
Declan Rice: Solidifying the Midfield Anchorage
Arsenal’s next target is West Ham midfielder Declan Rice, with an agreed fee of £121 million in negotiations. Rice’s previous experience playing as an anchor midfielder in a 4-3-3 formation at West Ham makes him an excellent fit for Arsenal’s system.
The English midfielder is expected to adapt swiftly to his new club, bringing persistence and durability, traits that set him apart from Thomas Partey. Remarkably, Rice has remained injury-free since the 2017/18 season, with only a 13-day absence due to illness in the 2018/19 campaign.
Jurrien Timber: Defensive Reinforcement at Right-Back
In their quest to strengthen the defense, Arsenal has set their sights on right-back Jurrien Timber from Ajax. The Gunners have submitted a second offer worth €48 million for the versatile player. Timber, who can also play as a central defender, has agreed to personal terms with Arsenal until the summer of 2028.
Despite his relatively modest height of 1.79 meters, Timber compensates with exceptional passing, tackling, and positional awareness. In the 2022/23 season, he started 34 league matches for Ajax, contributing two goals and two assists.
Arsenal is making a statement in the summer transfer market by assembling a dream squad that aims to close the gap with Manchester City. The signings of Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber demonstrate the club’s ambition to enhance their midfield, defense, and attacking options.
With Havertz’s versatility, Rice’s solidity in midfield, and Timber’s defensive prowess, Arsenal fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive season ahead.
These three rookies, with a combined worth of €238 million, bring talent, adaptability, and quality that could potentially propel Arsenal to new heights in their pursuit of success.